Are you constantly trying to figure out which stores take your SNAP EBT card? Good news! I’ve got you covered. Today, we’re going to dive into who accepts SNAP EBT, so you can save time and frustration when trying to pay for groceries.
One of the main benefits of SNAP EBT is that it can be used at a variety of retailers, making it easy to purchase food for yourself and your family. Whether you prefer shopping at local markets or large chain stores, there are plenty of options available. And the best part? You can use your SNAP EBT card in-store or online, depending on your needs and preferences.
But what about convenience stores? While they may not be the first place you think of when it comes to grocery shopping, many of them do accept SNAP EBT. So, whether you’re running low on milk or need to grab a few snacks on-the-go, you can use your SNAP EBT card at the nearest convenience store. Of course, not all convenience stores participate in the program, but rest assured, there are still plenty of options available. Now, let’s dive into the details and explore which specific retailers take SNAP EBT.
Eligible Retailers for SNAP EBT
SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) is a government-funded program that provides financial assistance to low-income households to buy food. SNAP benefits are issued on an EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) card which works like a debit card, and can be used at authorized retailers to purchase eligible food items. Here are the eligible retailers for SNAP EBT:
- Supermarkets – These are larger stores which have a wide range of products, including fresh produce, meats, dairy, and packaged foods. Examples include Walmart, Target, Aldi, and Safeway.
- Small grocery stores – These are smaller stores which may specialize in certain products, such as ethnic foods or organic produce. They may also offer convenience items like snacks and beverages. Examples include corner stores, bodegas, and mom-and-pop shops.
- Farmers’ markets – These are outdoor markets where local farmers and vendors sell fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and other food items. Some farmers’ markets are authorized to accept SNAP EBT, providing an opportunity for low-income families to access fresh, healthy food.
It’s important to note that not all retailers are authorized to accept SNAP EBT. In order to accept SNAP EBT, retailers must apply to the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) and meet a set of eligibility requirements. These requirements include providing access to a variety of food items, meeting certain health and safety standards, and offering competitive prices.
If you’re unsure whether a retailer accepts SNAP EBT, you can check the SNAP Retailer Locator on the USDA’s website. This tool allows you to search for authorized retailers near you based on your zip code or city and state. You can also look for the “SNAP Accepted Here” logo posted at the store.
Conclusion
Overall, there are a variety of retailers that are eligible to accept SNAP EBT, including supermarkets, small grocery stores, and farmers’ markets. These retailers play an important role in helping low-income families access nutritious food, and the SNAP program provides a vital safety net for those who struggle to make ends meet. By knowing which retailers are authorized, families can make the most of their SNAP benefits and improve their overall well-being.
Farmers Markets Accepting SNAP EBT
SNAP EBT, or the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Electronic Benefits Transfer, is a government program that allows low-income individuals and families to purchase food. In recent years, there has been a growing trend of farmers markets accepting SNAP EBT as a form of payment. This is a win-win situation for both farmers and SNAP recipients. Farmers are able to sell their fresh produce, while SNAP beneficiaries have access to healthy and locally-grown fruits and vegetables.
- According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), there were over 8,700 farmers markets nationwide that were authorized to accept SNAP EBT in 2019.
- Farmers markets in urban areas are more likely to accept SNAP EBT compared to rural areas.
- The Farmers Market Coalition has a directory of farmers markets that accept SNAP EBT, which can be found on their website.
These are just a few examples of farmers markets that accept SNAP EBT:
| Farmers Market | Location | Days |
|---|---|---|
| Ferry Plaza Farmers Market | San Francisco, CA | Saturdays |
| Union Square Greenmarket | New York, NY | Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays |
| Portland Farmers Market | Portland, OR | Saturdays, Sundays |
| Pike Place Market | Seattle, WA | 7 days a week |
If you are a SNAP recipient, it is important to check with your local farmers market to see if they accept SNAP EBT. Not only will you be able to purchase fresh and healthy food, but you will also be supporting local farmers and businesses.
Online Retailers Accepting SNAP EBT
Food insecurity is still a major issue in the United States, and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as Food Stamps, exists to help millions of Americans who struggle to put food on the table. SNAP benefits can be used to purchase eligible food items in-store or online, and in recent years, many online retailers have started accepting SNAP EBT as a payment method.
- Amazon
- Walmart
- ShopRite
These online retailers have been approved to participate in the SNAP Online Purchasing Pilot, which allows SNAP recipients to use their benefits to buy groceries online for home delivery or pickup at select stores. The pilot program is currently available in select states, with plans to expand to more areas in the future.
Here’s a breakdown of the three major online retailers that accept SNAP EBT:
| Retailer | Delivery Method | States Available |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon | Home Delivery or Pickup | Alabama, Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Idaho, Iowa, Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin |
| Walmart | Home Delivery or Pickup | Alabama, Arizona, California, Florida, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming |
| ShopRite | Home Delivery or Pickup | New Jersey, New York, Maryland, Delaware, Connecticut, Pennsylvania |
By allowing SNAP recipients to shop for groceries online, these retailers are making it easier for low-income families to access healthy, affordable food. While there are still limitations to the program, such as some items being ineligible for purchase with SNAP benefits, it’s a step in the right direction towards addressing food insecurity in America.
Grocery Stores Accepting SNAP EBT
Snap EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) enables low-income households to purchase food in a convenient and dignified way. While most grocery stores accept SNAP EBT, the availability of this payment option is subject to state regulations.
- Walmart – Walmart is the largest grocery store chain in the United States, and all Walmart stores accept SNAP EBT. The retailer also offers curbside pickup and delivery services to SNAP recipients in eligible areas.
- Kroger – Kroger accepts SNAP EBT at all their locations. The supermarket is the second-largest grocery store chain in the country and offers a pickup and delivery program for customers using their SNAP EBT card.
- Publix – Publix accepts SNAP EBT at all their stores, and they offer a range of healthy food options that meet the standards of the SNAP program.
- Aldi – More than 90% of Aldi stores accept SNAP EBT. The discount supermarket is committed to making healthy food accessible and affordable, and they offer a range of fresh produce and whole grains.
- Whole Foods – Whole Foods Market accepts SNAP EBT at participating stores. The grocery store chain is renowned for its high quality and organic products.
State-Specific Grocery Stores Accepting SNAP EBT
While Walmart and Kroger accept SNAP EBT in most states, there are several grocery stores that accept SNAP EBT in specific regions.
In California, Safeway, Target, and Vons accept SNAP EBT, while in New York, Food Bazaar Supermarkets, ShopRite, and Key Food accept SNAP EBT. In Texas, H-E-B and Supermercado El Rancho accept SNAP EBT, and in Florida, Winn-Dixie is a popular grocery store chain that accepts SNAP EBT.
Online Grocery Stores Accepting SNAP EBT
Snap EBT participants are now able to buy groceries online from retailers like Walmart, Amazon, and Aldi. Customers can place an order and pay with their EBT card, and the groceries will either be delivered to their doorstep or be available for pickup at the store.
SNAP EBT-Approved Foods
| Food Group | Examples |
|---|---|
| Fruits and Vegetables | Fresh, frozen, canned, and dried fruits and vegetables |
| Grains | Bread, pasta, rice, and cereal |
| Meat and Beans | Beef, pork, chicken, canned beans, and peanut butter |
| Dairy Products | Milk, cheese, and yogurt |
| Snacks and Beverages | Chips, soda, and candy are not eligible, but dried fruits and nuts, seeds, and 100% juice are |
SNAP EBT benefits can be used to purchase a certain list of food items created by the USDA. This list includes all essential food groups such as fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, and dairy products. However, SNAP EBT cannot be used to purchase non-food items such as alcohol, tobacco, and pet food.
Convenience Stores Accepting SNAP EBT
Convenience stores are often the lifeline for people living in areas with limited grocery options. Fortunately, many of these stores accept SNAP EBT, making it easier for recipients to purchase food. Here are some of the top convenience stores that accept SNAP EBT:
- 7-Eleven
- Circle K
- Cumberland Farms
- CVS
- Dollar General
These stores offer a range of food options, from fresh fruits and vegetables to canned goods and frozen foods. It’s important to note that not all convenience stores accept SNAP EBT, so be sure to check with the specific store before making a purchase.
Additionally, some convenience stores may offer discounts or promotions to SNAP EBT recipients. For example, 7-Eleven has offered discounts on fresh produce for SNAP EBT users in the past.
SNAP EBT Usage at Convenience Stores
According to the USDA, in 2019, nearly $1 billion was spent using SNAP EBT at convenience stores across the country. This highlights the important role these stores play in providing food access for SNAP EBT recipients.
It’s worth noting that there has been some criticism of convenience stores accepting SNAP EBT, as some argue that these stores may not offer enough healthy food options or may charge higher prices. However, for many individuals and families living in food deserts or areas without nearby grocery stores, convenience stores may be the only accessible option.
| State | Number of Convenience Stores Accepting SNAP EBT |
|---|---|
| Texas | 8,483 |
| Florida | 6,886 |
| California | 6,230 |
| New York | 4,019 |
| Ohio | 3,876 |
As evidenced by the above table, states with large populations tend to have more convenience stores accepting SNAP EBT. However, even in more rural areas, convenience stores can play a crucial role in providing access to healthy and affordable food for those who may not have other options.
Discount Stores Accepting SNAP EBT
SNAP EBT (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Electronic Benefit Transfer) is a federal program that helps low-income households purchase food. SNAP EBT benefits can be used at authorized retailers that are approved by the government. Discount stores are popular choices for SNAP EBT beneficiaries because they offer affordable prices and discounts on a wide range of products. Here are six discount stores that accept SNAP EBT:
- Walmart: Walmart is one of the largest retailers in the world, and it accepts SNAP EBT at all of its US locations. Walmart offers a wide range of products, including groceries, clothing, electronics, and household items. Walmart also offers a price match guarantee, which means that it will match the price of any local competitor’s advertised price for the same product.
- Target: Target is a popular discount store that offers a variety of products, including groceries, clothing, and electronics. Target accepts SNAP EBT at most of its stores.
- Aldi: Aldi is a discount grocery store that offers affordable prices on a wide range of food products. Aldi accepts SNAP EBT at all of its US locations.
- Dollar General: Dollar General is a discount store that offers a variety of products, including groceries, household items, and beauty products. Dollar General accepts SNAP EBT at most of its stores.
- Dollar Tree: Dollar Tree is a discount store that offers a variety of products, including groceries, household items, and party supplies. Dollar Tree accepts SNAP EBT at most of its stores.
- Family Dollar: Family Dollar is a discount store that offers a variety of products, including groceries, household items, and beauty products. Family Dollar accepts SNAP EBT at most of its stores.
It’s important to note that not all products at these discount stores are eligible for purchase with SNAP EBT benefits. For example, SNAP EBT benefits cannot be used to purchase alcoholic beverages or tobacco products. Additionally, some products may be subject to state-specific regulations. It’s always best to check with the store or the SNAP EBT website to determine which products are eligible for purchase with SNAP EBT benefits.
If you’re a SNAP EBT beneficiary, shopping at discount stores can help stretch your food budget. These stores offer affordable prices and a variety of products, making it easier to purchase healthy and nutritious foods for you and your family.
| Store | Accepted Payment Methods |
|---|---|
| Walmart | Snap EBT, Credit/Debit Cards, Cash |
| Target | Snap EBT, Credit/Debit Cards, Target GiftCards, Cash |
| Aldi | Snap EBT, Credit/Debit Cards, Cash |
| Dollar General | Snap EBT, Credit/Debit Cards, Cash |
| Dollar Tree | Snap EBT, Credit/Debit Cards, Cash |
| Family Dollar | Snap EBT, Credit/Debit Cards, Cash |
Overall, discount stores are a convenient and affordable option for SNAP EBT beneficiaries. With a wide range of products and affordable prices, these stores can help you make healthy and nutritious food choices while stretching your food budget.
Specialized Retailers Accepting SNAP EBT
If you are a recipient of SNAP benefits, you can purchase food items using your Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card in more than 240,000 retailers across the United States. Among these retailers are specialized stores that cater to specific dietary needs and preferences.
- Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) Programs: Some CSA programs accept SNAP EBT as payment for their subscription boxes, which contain organic produce and other fresh farm products.
- Health Food Stores: Many health food stores accept SNAP EBT, providing access to organic, non-GMO, and special diet products including gluten-free, keto-friendly, and vegan options.
- Farmers’ Markets: With more than 8,700 farmers’ markets nationwide, SNAP recipients can purchase fresh fruits, vegetables, and other locally sourced products.
- Certain Online Retailers: Some online retailers, such as Amazon and Walmart, have partnered with the USDA to accept SNAP benefits for online grocery orders.
- Bakeries and Specialty Shops: Many bakeries and specialty shops that offer fresh baked goods and unique treats also accept SNAP EBT.
- Souvenir and Gift Shops: Certain souvenir and gift shops located within museums, zoos, and aquariums offer non-perishable food items and also accept SNAP EBT.
- Discount and Dollar Stores: Some discount and dollar stores sell grocery items that are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
SNAP EBT Eligible Food Items
To ensure your purchases qualify for payment with SNAP EBT, only certain food items are eligible for purchase, including fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, bread, cereals, and other staple items. Non-food items, such as paper products, cleaning supplies, and personal hygiene products, are not eligible for purchase using SNAP EBT.
Conclusion
Specialized retailers that accept SNAP EBT provide access to healthy and specialty food items for those who rely on SNAP benefits to purchase food for themselves and their families. Knowing where you can shop with your EBT card can help you make the most of your benefits and ensure your meals meet your dietary needs and preferences.
| Retailer | Items Sold |
|---|---|
| CSA Programs | Organic produce and fresh farm products |
| Health Food Stores | Organic, non-GMO, and special diet products including gluten-free, keto-friendly, and vegan options |
| Farmers’ Markets | Fresh fruits, vegetables, and other locally sourced products |
| Online Retailers | Grocery items available for online purchase, including fresh produce and shelf-stable pantry items |
| Bakeries and Specialty Shops | Fresh baked goods and unique treats |
| Souvenir and Gift Shops | Non-perishable food items, such as snacks and canned goods |
| Discount and Dollar Stores | Grocery items that qualify for purchase with SNAP benefits |
Note: Eligible food items vary by retailer and location.
Pet Stores Accepting SNAP EBT
If you’re a pet owner who receives benefits from the SNAP EBT program, you’ll be glad to know that there are many pet stores across the country that accept this form of payment. In fact, several retail chains and independent stores now allow customers to use their SNAP EBT benefits to purchase pet food and supplies.
- Petco: Petco is one of the largest pet retailers in the United States, and they accept SNAP EBT for pet food and supplies in-store only.
- PetSmart: PetSmart also allows customers to use their SNAP EBT benefits on pet food and supplies in-store only.
- Feeders Supply: This regional chain of pet stores located in Kentucky and Southern Indiana accepts SNAP EBT for pet food and supplies in-store only.
- Pet Supplies Plus: This chain of pet stores operates in several states across the country and accepts SNAP EBT for pet food and supplies in-store only.
In addition to these large retail chains, there are also many independent pet stores that accept SNAP EBT. These stores may operate in a specific region or city, and may offer a wider range of pet-related products and services compared to larger chain stores. To find out if an independent pet store in your area accepts SNAP EBT, simply call or visit their website.
It’s worth noting that there are some restrictions on what types of pet food can be purchased with SNAP EBT benefits. Under SNAP rules, pet food must be intended for “household pets” and cannot be used to buy food for animals that are being raised for commercial purposes or used for hunting. Additionally, SNAP benefits cannot be used to purchase live animals, such as dogs or cats.
| Pet Store | Accepts SNAP EBT | Products Available |
|---|---|---|
| Petco | Yes | Pet food and supplies |
| PetSmart | Yes | Pet food and supplies |
| Feeders Supply | Yes | Pet food and supplies |
| Pet Supplies Plus | Yes | Pet food and supplies |
Overall, if you receive benefits from the SNAP EBT program and own a pet, you have several options for purchasing pet food and supplies. Large retail chains like Petco and PetSmart, as well as independent pet stores, now accept SNAP EBT in-store for pet-related purchases. As always, it’s important to check with your local store to ensure they accept SNAP EBT and that you’re purchasing eligible products.
Pharmacies Accepting SNAP EBT
Many people who receive SNAP benefits face the challenge of accessing affordable healthcare and medications. Fortunately, there are pharmacies that accept SNAP EBT as a means of payment. The program allows for the purchase of eligible prescription and non-prescription items, including many over-the-counter drugs and medical supplies for the household.
- Walmart: One of the biggest retailers in the world, Walmart operates pharmacies in most of its stores, and accepts SNAP EBT for pharmacy items, excluding prescriptions. The retailer also offers discounted generic prescription drugs and over-the-counter medications, as well as free in-store pickup for select products.
- Walgreens: Another major pharmacy chain, Walgreens accepts SNAP EBT for eligible items in its stores and online. The store features a vast range of prescription drugs and non-prescription health and wellness products, including vitamins, supplements, and personal care items. Walgreens also offers mail-order pharmacy services for customers who prefer delivery and automatic refills.
- CVS: With over 9,800 stores across the United States, CVS is a leading pharmacy retailer that accepts SNAP EBT for the purchase of eligible products. The chain offers a wide selection of prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, beauty products, and health and wellness items. CVS also provides a range of pharmacy services, such as vaccinations and medication management.
- Rite Aid: Operating in over 2,400 locations in 18 states, Rite Aid is a pharmacy chain that accepts SNAP EBT for eligible items. The store offers prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and health and wellness products, including a selection of organic and natural supplements. Rite Aid also provides personalized health coaching services through its online platform, Rite Aid Virtual Care.
- Kroger: The largest grocery chain in the United States, Kroger operates pharmacies in many of its stores, and accepts SNAP EBT for eligible pharmacy items. The retailer offers a range of prescription medications and over-the-counter products, including home health care supplies and diabetic testing kits. Kroger also provides prescription drug savings programs and free medication reviews.
- Publix: A supermarket chain based in Florida, Publix has over 1,000 store locations across the southeast and offers prescription drugs and over-the-counter medications, as well as other health and wellness items. The store accepts SNAP EBT for eligible pharmacy items, and also provides medication synchronization, where customers can get their prescriptions filled on the same day each month.
- Costco: Known for its bulk merchandise and low prices, Costco also operates pharmacies in many of its locations. The store accepts SNAP EBT for eligible pharmacy items, and offers a range of prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs, including vitamins and supplements. Costco also provides mail-order pharmacy services and free health screenings for members.
- Target: Another popular retailer, Target has pharmacies in some of its stores that accept SNAP EBT for eligible pharmacy items, including many over-the-counter drugs and medical supplies. The chain also offers a range of prescription medications, health and wellness products, and beauty items, as well as free same-day pickup for certain products purchased online.
- Sam’s Club: A membership-only warehouse club, Sam’s Club operates pharmacies in most of its locations, and accepts SNAP EBT for eligible pharmacy items, excluding prescriptions. The store offers a range of over-the-counter drugs and medical supplies, as well as discounted generic prescription medications. Sam’s Club also provides free health screenings for members and a range of health and wellness services.
Overall, there are many pharmacies that accept SNAP EBT as a form of payment, which can help low-income households access affordable healthcare and medications. The program allows customers to purchase eligible prescription and non-prescription items, including many over-the-counter drugs and medical supplies for the household.
Home Delivery Services Accepting SNAP EBT
In recent years, the number of home delivery services accepting SNAP EBT has increased significantly. This is great news for those who rely on SNAP benefits to access nutritious food but have difficulty leaving their homes to shop in-store. Here are ten home delivery services that accept SNAP EBT:
- Amazon
- Walmart Grocery
- Instacart
- Shipt
- FreshDirect
- Thrive Market
- Imperfect Foods
- Boxed
- PeachDish
- Sun Basket
These services not only accept SNAP EBT but also offer a wide variety of food options and may even deliver to areas that do not have easy access to grocery stores. For example, Amazon offers their Amazon Fresh service to Prime members in select cities, which offers same-day or next-day delivery on a variety of grocery items.
To use SNAP benefits for online home delivery, individuals must have an EBT card and live in a state that participates in the USDA SNAP Online Purchasing Pilot. Currently, over 40 states participate in the pilot, with more expected to join in the future.
| Home Delivery Service | SNAP EBT Accepted? | Delivery Options |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon | Yes | Same-day or next-day delivery in select cities |
| Walmart Grocery | Yes | Pickup and delivery options available |
| Instacart | Yes | Same-day or next-day delivery available |
| Shipt | Yes | Same-day or next-day delivery available |
| FreshDirect | Yes | Next-day delivery available in select areas |
| Thrive Market | Yes | Delivery options available |
| Imperfect Foods | Yes | Weekly or bi-weekly delivery options available |
| Boxed | Yes | Delivery options available |
| PeachDish | Yes | Delivery options available |
| Sun Basket | Yes | Weekly delivery options available |
We hope this list of home delivery services accepting SNAP EBT helps make it easier for individuals and families to access healthy food options. Check with your local services to see if they accept SNAP EBT and take advantage of the convenience of home delivery.
FAQs about Who Takes SNAP EBT
1. What is SNAP EBT?
SNAP EBT is an electronic benefits transfer system used by the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program to provide low-income households with funds to purchase food.
2. Who accepts SNAP EBT?
Most grocery stores and supermarkets accept SNAP EBT, but some smaller grocery stores and convenience stores may not be authorized to participate in the program.
3. Can I use my SNAP EBT card online?
Yes, you can use your SNAP EBT card to purchase eligible food items online at select retailers, including Amazon, Walmart, and Kroger.
4. Are there any restrictions on what I can buy with SNAP EBT?
Yes, SNAP EBT can only be used to buy food items that are considered to be “basic” or “staple” foods, such as bread, milk, eggs, and vegetables. It cannot be used to purchase non-food items or products like tobacco, alcohol, and pet food.
5. Can I use my SNAP EBT card outside of my home state?
Yes, you can use your SNAP EBT card in any state in the United States.
6. Are there any fees associated with using SNAP EBT?
No, there are no fees associated with using SNAP EBT to purchase food items.
7. How do I use my SNAP EBT card at the store?
You can use your SNAP EBT card like a debit card at the store, swiping it at the point of sale and entering your PIN number to complete the transaction.
Closing Thoughts
Thanks for taking the time to read about who takes SNAP EBT! We hope this article was helpful in answering your questions about where you can use your benefits to purchase food. Remember, most grocery stores and supermarkets accept SNAP EBT, and you can even use it to buy food online at select retailers. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your local SNAP office if you have any further questions or concerns. And be sure to check back for more informative articles in the future!