Shopping online is super convenient, especially when you need to get groceries. If you’re using SNAP benefits (that’s Food Stamps), you might be wondering, “Can I use my EBT card at Walmart.com?” The answer is yes, but there are some important things you need to know. This guide will walk you through the process and help you understand how to navigate buying groceries online at Walmart using your EBT card.
What Items Can I Buy With Food Stamps?
You can use your SNAP benefits to buy food items. Think of it this way: if it’s something you can eat or drink (besides alcohol), you can probably buy it with your EBT card! That includes a lot of things, such as:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Dairy products like milk and cheese
- Breads and cereals
- Snack foods
- Non-alcoholic beverages
However, there are some things you can’t buy with your EBT card, even at Walmart. These include things like alcohol, tobacco products, pet food, paper products, and household supplies. Also, you can’t use your EBT card to pay for the Walmart+ membership.
It is important to be mindful of what you put in your cart, as only eligible food items can be purchased with your EBT card at Walmart.com. Other items need to be paid for with a different payment method.
If you’re unsure if an item is eligible, check the product description on Walmart.com. If you’re still not sure, it’s a good idea to use a different payment method for that item, just in case.
Setting Up Your Walmart Account for EBT
Before you can start using your EBT card, you’ll need to make sure your Walmart.com account is set up correctly. This usually involves linking your EBT card to your account so that it is ready to go when you check out. You might need to go into the “Payment Methods” section of your account to add your EBT card. This process helps Walmart recognize your SNAP benefits and ensures you can use them during checkout.
You’ll likely be asked to enter your EBT card number, the expiration date, and the cardholder’s name. Keep in mind that you may need to enter your billing address, too. This address should match the address associated with your EBT card to avoid any issues during the checkout process.
Once you have added your EBT card, you can then proceed with your online shopping. It is important to keep your payment information up to date. Make sure your EBT card details are accurate so that you do not have any problems when you are ready to checkout.
Remember, this is usually a one-time setup process. Your EBT card information will be saved for future purchases, making it even more convenient to shop online.
Shopping and Adding Items to Your Cart
Once you have your Walmart account set up, the next step is to fill your cart with the groceries you need. This is just like any other online shopping experience! You can browse through Walmart’s online grocery selection and add items to your cart.
Here’s a quick guide:
- Go to the Walmart website or app.
- Select the “Grocery” section.
- Browse by category (produce, dairy, meat, etc.) or search for specific items.
- Click “Add to Cart” for the items you want.
As you shop, keep an eye out for items that aren’t SNAP-eligible. These items will need to be purchased with a different payment method. It’s a good idea to separate your SNAP-eligible items from non-eligible ones to avoid confusion at checkout.
You can add items to your cart as you go, and it’s a good idea to review your cart often to make sure you have everything you need. This also gives you a chance to check item prices and to make any necessary adjustments before you check out.
Checkout: Splitting Payments
When you’re ready to check out, you’ll see your cart total and the option to pay. This is where using your EBT card gets a little different. Because you might have items that aren’t covered by SNAP, you might need to split your payment between your EBT card and another payment method.
Here’s how the split payment process works:
- Select your EBT card as your payment method for eligible items.
- The website will automatically calculate the amount to be paid with your EBT card.
- You’ll need to select a different payment method (like a credit or debit card) for the remaining balance.
Make sure you carefully review your order details and the payment breakdown before confirming your purchase. This will prevent any surprises.
If you only have SNAP-eligible items in your cart, the entire amount will be deducted from your EBT card. If you have a mix of eligible and non-eligible items, you’ll need to pay with your EBT card first and the remaining balance using a different payment method. Make sure the total amount on your EBT card covers the eligible purchases.
Delivery or Pickup Options
Walmart offers several convenient ways to get your groceries: delivery and pickup. Depending on your location, you can choose the option that works best for you.
With delivery, your groceries are brought right to your doorstep. This is a great option if you have limited transportation or prefer not to go to the store. Delivery fees may apply, and you may be able to use a credit or debit card to cover these fees.
Pickup allows you to order online and then pick up your order at a designated Walmart store. There is often a time frame to do your pickup, and you will need to arrive during this window. This is a convenient option if you want to avoid delivery fees or need your groceries quickly.
Here is a table comparing these options:
| Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Delivery | Convenient, groceries delivered to your door | Delivery fees may apply |
| Pickup | No delivery fees, quick and easy | You must travel to the store |
Make sure to check the availability of both options in your area during checkout. Be aware that EBT cards can be used for both delivery and pickup orders, so choose the option that suits your needs the most.
Dealing with Order Adjustments or Returns
Sometimes, there might be a problem with your order. For instance, some items might be out of stock, or you might want to return something. Walmart has procedures for handling these situations, even when you’ve used an EBT card.
Here’s what to keep in mind:
- If an item is out of stock, you might not be charged for it, or you might be offered a substitute.
- For returns, the refund will usually go back onto your EBT card if you paid with it.
- Refunds may take a few days to process, so be patient.
It’s good to keep your order confirmation and any related communication from Walmart, such as emails. This will help you if you have any problems with your order.
If you need to make any adjustments to your order, or need to make a return, contact Walmart customer service. They’ll walk you through the process and answer any questions.
Important Tips and Reminders
Using your EBT card on Walmart.com is fairly easy once you get the hang of it. However, there are a few things to remember to make your online shopping experience smooth.
Here are some key tips:
- Always check the SNAP-eligibility of items before adding them to your cart.
- Make sure your EBT card is linked to your Walmart account.
- Be ready to split payments if your order contains non-eligible items.
- Keep track of your EBT balance to avoid overspending.
Also, if you are not sure whether an item is eligible, check the item description, or contact Walmart customer service. If something goes wrong, like the wrong amount of money being charged to your card, immediately contact the customer service team.
These things are all important, and doing them can make sure you have a positive online shopping experience when using your EBT card.
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to shopping at Walmart with your EBT card!
Conclusion
So, now you know how to use your EBT card on Walmart.com! It’s a convenient way to buy groceries online. This process allows you to easily order your groceries online using your SNAP benefits. Remember to check item eligibility, set up your account correctly, and be prepared to split payments if needed. With a little practice, you’ll be able to shop online for groceries at Walmart quickly and easily.