Navigating the world of online grocery shopping can sometimes feel like a maze, especially when you’re trying to figure out how to pay. If you have an EBT card (also known as SNAP or food stamps), you might be wondering if you can use it to buy groceries on the Walmart app. This is a common question, and we’ll dive into the details to give you a clear picture of how it works.
Does Walmart App Accept EBT?
Yes, you can absolutely use your EBT card to pay for groceries on the Walmart app and website. Walmart has made it possible for customers to utilize their EBT benefits when placing online orders for pickup or delivery.
Setting Up Your EBT Card on the App
To get started, you’ll need to add your EBT card information to your Walmart account. This process is pretty straightforward. You’ll go to your account settings and look for the payment options section. There, you’ll find an option to add a new payment method, where you can enter your EBT card details just like you would a credit or debit card.
Remember, it is important to keep your EBT card information secure. Avoid sharing your card number or PIN with anyone, and always ensure you’re on a secure, legitimate website or app when entering your details. Check the website URL to make sure it starts with “https” and has a lock icon in the address bar.
Once your EBT card is added, you can start adding eligible items to your cart. Keep in mind that not all items are covered by EBT, so it’s essential to be aware of what you can and cannot purchase with your benefits. The app will usually indicate which items are EBT-eligible.
Here is a quick breakdown of the process:
- Go to your Walmart account settings.
- Select “Payment Methods.”
- Add your EBT card information.
- Save the card for future use.
Eligible Food Items for EBT Purchase
The items you can purchase with EBT are generally the same as what you can buy in the store. This includes a variety of foods such as fruits, vegetables, meats, poultry, fish, dairy products, and cereals. Think of it as anything you would typically find in the grocery section of Walmart that is meant for human consumption.
It’s good to know the rules of what items are typically covered so you don’t have issues at checkout. The USDA has some general guidelines for SNAP benefits. Here are some examples of items commonly accepted:
- Breads and cereals
- Fruits and vegetables
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Dairy products
- Seeds and plants to grow food
However, there are some items that are not eligible. These include alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, vitamins, medicines, pet foods, and any non-food items, such as diapers or cleaning supplies. Always double-check the item before adding it to your cart.
To help you visualize what’s accepted, take a look at this table:
| Eligible Items | Ineligible Items |
|---|---|
| Fruits | Alcoholic beverages |
| Vegetables | Tobacco products |
| Dairy products | Vitamins and medicines |
| Meat, poultry, fish | Pet food |
Non-Food Items and Separate Payments
If you want to buy items that are not covered by EBT, like paper towels or hygiene products, you’ll need to use a different form of payment for those. Walmart makes this easy by allowing you to split your payment between your EBT card and another card or payment method.
When you’re ready to check out, the app will usually give you the option to select which payment methods to use. You can choose to use your EBT card for the eligible food items and then select another payment method, such as a credit or debit card, for the non-food items. The app will automatically calculate the amounts for each payment method, simplifying the process.
This can be especially useful when you have a mix of food and non-food items in your cart. You won’t have to worry about accidentally trying to use your EBT card for something that isn’t allowed.
Here is an example of how to split the payment:
- Add food and non-food items to your cart.
- Proceed to checkout.
- Select the items to pay with EBT.
- Choose a different payment method for the remaining items.
Delivery and Pickup Options
Using EBT on the Walmart app also extends to their pickup and delivery services. You can place your order online, pay with your EBT card, and then either pick up your groceries at the store or have them delivered to your doorstep, depending on the services available in your area.
For delivery, you may need to pay a delivery fee, which isn’t covered by your EBT card. You will need to use another payment method to cover this cost. When setting up your delivery, the app will clarify the charges.
If you choose pickup, you can go to the store and pick up your order during the scheduled time. You can usually park in a designated pickup spot, and a Walmart employee will bring your groceries to your car. This option is convenient, especially if you don’t have transportation or if you just prefer a quick and easy shopping experience.
Here’s how the Pickup process works:
- Place your order online.
- Select a pickup time.
- Drive to the store during your scheduled time.
- A Walmart employee will bring your groceries to your car.
Potential Problems and Troubleshooting
Although using EBT on the Walmart app is generally smooth, sometimes you might encounter some issues. One common problem is an incorrect card number or expiration date. Double-check that the information you entered is accurate when adding your EBT card.
Another common issue is a declined transaction. This could be due to insufficient funds on your EBT card or a temporary problem with the payment system. If your payment is declined, you should check your EBT balance and contact your state’s EBT customer service if you need help.
The Walmart app also might occasionally have technical glitches. If you’re having trouble with your order, try restarting the app or clearing the cache. You can also contact Walmart’s customer service or visit the help section on their website or app for assistance.
Here are some tips for troubleshooting:
- Double-check your card details.
- Check your EBT balance.
- Restart the app.
- Contact Walmart customer service.
Saving Money and Benefits
Using the Walmart app with your EBT card can be a smart way to shop. You can take advantage of the app’s features to browse deals, compare prices, and create shopping lists that help you stay within your budget. The app’s search filters and product information can also help you find the most affordable options.
Walmart frequently offers special deals and promotions. You can often find coupons and discounts, including price reductions for specific items, which will help you stretch your EBT benefits further. Keeping an eye out for these deals can help you maximize the value of your shopping.
The app makes it easier to keep track of your spending and the available balance on your EBT card. You can review your purchase history and see how much you’ve spent on each order. This transparency helps you manage your food budget and plan your purchases accordingly.
Here’s a list to help you save money with Walmart App:
- Use the app to find deals and coupons.
- Create shopping lists to stick to your budget.
- Track your spending.
In conclusion, using your EBT card on the Walmart app is a convenient and accessible way to buy groceries. You can easily add your EBT card to your account, shop for eligible items, and utilize both pickup and delivery services. Understanding the rules and potential issues will help you smoothly navigate the online grocery shopping experience. By taking advantage of the app’s features and keeping an eye on deals, you can make the most of your EBT benefits and shop with ease.