If you’re a SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) recipient, you might be wondering if you can use your EBT card to shop online at Walmart, especially using their app. It’s a super convenient way to buy groceries and other essentials, so knowing if you can pay with EBT on the Walmart app is a big deal. This essay will break down everything you need to know about using your EBT card on the Walmart app, from the basics to some helpful tips. Let’s dive in!
Can You Use EBT on the Walmart App to Buy Groceries?
Yes, you absolutely can use your EBT card on the Walmart app to buy groceries! Walmart has made it possible for customers to use their EBT benefits both in-store and online, including through their app. This means you can order food and groceries from the comfort of your home and pay with your EBT card just like you would with a debit card or credit card.
Setting Up Your EBT Card on the Walmart App
To get started, you’ll first need to link your EBT card to your Walmart account. This process is pretty straightforward. You’ll go through the steps to set up your account or update your payment options. Make sure you have your EBT card handy, as you’ll need the card number and other information. You’ll typically provide this information during the checkout process the first time you use your EBT card.
Here’s a quick rundown of the steps:
- Open the Walmart app and sign in to your account.
- Go to “Account” then “Payment Methods.”
- Add a new payment method.
- Select “EBT card” or “Food Stamps” as your payment option.
- Enter your EBT card number, expiration date, and other required information.
Once you’ve entered your EBT card details, you should be good to go for future orders. If you run into any trouble, Walmart’s customer service is there to help! Always double-check that your information is accurate to avoid any issues during checkout.
It’s worth noting that you may be prompted to create or update your account address and delivery or pickup preference to complete the process.
What Can You Buy With EBT on the Walmart App?
So, what exactly can you purchase with your EBT card when you use the Walmart app? Generally, you can buy any food item that is SNAP-eligible. This includes things like fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, bread, cereals, and other groceries that are approved by the USDA. It’s pretty similar to what you can buy in the store.
Here are some examples of what you can purchase:
- Fresh Produce: Apples, bananas, lettuce, carrots, etc.
- Meats: Beef, chicken, pork, fish, etc.
- Dairy: Milk, cheese, yogurt, etc.
- Breads and Cereals: Loaves of bread, breakfast cereals, etc.
- Snacks: Chips, crackers, and other similar food items.
However, remember that there are certain items that EBT cannot be used for, such as alcohol, tobacco products, pet food, household supplies, and non-food items like clothing and electronics. These are considered ineligible items under SNAP rules.
When shopping on the app, it’s easy to identify EBT-eligible items. If an item is eligible, you’ll usually see a special marker or indicator next to the product. This makes it super easy to shop and stay within your SNAP guidelines.
Ordering and Paying with EBT on the Walmart App
Once you’ve set up your EBT card and filled your cart with SNAP-eligible items, the checkout process on the Walmart app is quite simple. You’ll proceed to the checkout, choose your payment method, and select your EBT card. The app will typically ask you to enter your PIN for security. This is the same PIN you use at the checkout in the store.
When you’re ready to pay, you might be prompted with a few options:
- You will choose “Pay with EBT” or a similar option.
- The app may ask for your EBT PIN.
- Sometimes you may have to split your payment, especially if there are ineligible items in your cart.
If your order contains both EBT-eligible and non-eligible items, you’ll need to pay for the non-eligible items with a different payment method. This could be a debit card, credit card, or cash (if you’re picking up your order). The app will guide you through the payment split, making it straightforward. Always check your order summary to ensure that everything is correct before finalizing your purchase.
If you need to split your order, this is how it might work:
| Item Type | Payment Method |
|---|---|
| EBT-eligible items | EBT card |
| Non-eligible items | Debit/Credit card |
Delivery and Pickup Options with EBT on Walmart App
Walmart offers both delivery and pickup options when you use the app and pay with EBT. With delivery, your groceries will be brought right to your doorstep. This is a great option if you can’t make it to the store or if you just prefer the convenience. The delivery fees may vary, so be sure to check the app for costs.
With pickup, you order your groceries online and then pick them up at the store. This is also a convenient option because you can pick up your order at a time that works for you. Here are a few things to consider:
- Delivery fees may not be covered by EBT.
- Pickup is often a no-cost option.
- You can choose your preferred pickup time.
Keep in mind that while the food items themselves are covered by EBT, delivery fees and other charges might need to be paid with a different method. Always double-check the details before you finalize your order. Sometimes, Walmart offers free delivery with a certain order minimum, so be sure to check for any current promotions that can help save you money.
When you arrive for pickup, follow the instructions in the app or those provided by the store. Usually, you will check in and they will bring your order out to your car.
Dealing with Issues and Returns with EBT
Even though using EBT on the Walmart app is designed to be straightforward, sometimes things don’t go as planned. If you run into any issues, such as the app not accepting your EBT card or problems with your order, Walmart customer service is there to help. They can assist you with technical problems, payment issues, or questions about eligible items.
Here are a few tips if you encounter issues:
- Make sure your card is active and has enough funds.
- Double-check that your card information is entered correctly.
- Contact Walmart customer service through the app or website.
Regarding returns, the process is generally similar to returns made in-store. If you need to return an item purchased with your EBT card, the refund will usually be credited back to your EBT card. Make sure you have your receipt and follow Walmart’s return policy. For more information, check Walmart’s return policy online or consult with a customer service representative.
Also, keep your receipt and any other documentation from the purchase. This will make the returns process run smoothly.
Tips for Saving Money and Shopping Smart with EBT
Using the Walmart app with your EBT card can be a convenient way to shop, but there are also ways to make your shopping even more efficient and cost-effective. One tip is to check for special offers, discounts, and promotions on the app. Walmart often has deals and coupons that can help you save money on your groceries, making your EBT benefits go further.
Here are a few ways to shop smarter:
- Look for “rollback” or sale prices on your favorite items.
- Use the Walmart app to compare prices to other stores.
- Check out the clearance sections for discounted items.
Another great way to save is by planning your meals and making a shopping list. This helps you to avoid impulse purchases and stick to the SNAP-eligible items you need. Also, consider buying store-brand items instead of name-brand items, as they often cost less and have similar quality. Finally, always keep an eye on the expiration dates and plan to use items before they go bad to prevent food waste.
Here is an example of a simple shopping list:
- Milk
- Eggs
- Bread
- Apples
- Chicken
By following these tips, you can make the most of your EBT benefits and ensure you are getting the best value when shopping on the Walmart app.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the answer to “Can you use EBT on Walmart app?” is a resounding yes! Walmart has made it easy for SNAP recipients to use their EBT benefits when shopping online for groceries and other eligible items. From setting up your card to dealing with any issues or returns, the process is generally straightforward. By understanding what you can buy, how to pay, and how to save money while shopping, you can use the Walmart app to conveniently and efficiently meet your grocery needs. Enjoy the convenience and flexibility that the Walmart app offers while making the most of your EBT benefits!