Shopping for groceries online is super convenient, and Instacart makes it easy to get your food delivered right to your door. But if you use EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) for your groceries, you might be wondering if you can use it with Instacart when you order from Walmart. Let’s break down the answer to that question and explore some related details.
Does Walmart Accept EBT on Instacart? The Basic Answer
This is a really common question, and the short answer is: Yes, Walmart generally accepts EBT cards for online orders placed through Instacart in participating states and stores. This means you can use your SNAP benefits to purchase eligible food items through Instacart from Walmart, just like you would in the physical store.
How to Pay with EBT on Instacart at Walmart
So, how does this actually work? Well, it’s not quite as simple as swiping your EBT card. When you’re ready to pay, you’ll select the items eligible for purchase with your EBT card. You’ll then have the option to enter your EBT card information during the checkout process on the Instacart app or website. However, there are a few extra steps involved, and you might have to pay for some things separately.
First, you need to make sure that the Walmart location you are ordering from accepts EBT cards. Not all Walmart locations participate. Secondly, EBT cards can only be used to purchase eligible food items, similar to in-store purchases. Instacart will usually separate those items into their own group and allow you to apply your EBT benefits towards those items. Remember that delivery fees, service fees, tips for the shopper, and any non-food items will need to be paid with a different payment method, like a debit or credit card.
Before you start ordering, it’s a good idea to double-check the specifics. Here’s a quick checklist to ensure you’re all set:
- Does the Walmart store offer Instacart?
- Does the Walmart location accept EBT payments?
- Have your EBT card and a secondary payment method ready.
- Are the items in your cart SNAP-eligible?
Knowing these details upfront will save you any confusion or frustration at checkout.
Eligible Items You Can Buy with EBT
What can you actually buy with your EBT card when using Instacart at Walmart? The rules are pretty much the same as they are in the physical store. You can use your SNAP benefits to buy food items like fruits, vegetables, meats, poultry, fish, dairy products, and cereals. This means you can buy staples and fresh foods to feed your family. This helps keep your family’s grocery budget aligned with what’s covered by your benefits.
There are restrictions, too. The things you CAN’T buy with your EBT card are generally the same as in a regular Walmart store. Items like alcohol, tobacco products, pet food, and household supplies are not covered. Also, prepared foods like hot meals are usually excluded.
- Fruits and Vegetables
- Meat, Poultry, and Fish
- Dairy Products
- Breads and Cereals
- Non-alcoholic Beverages
By understanding these basics, you can make informed purchasing decisions.
Non-Eligible Items and Payment Methods
Now, let’s talk about what you CAN’T buy with your EBT card and how you’ll pay for those items. Non-food items, like diapers, cleaning supplies, and pet food, will need to be paid for separately. Similarly, any fees associated with your Instacart order, such as delivery fees and service fees, can’t be covered by EBT.
Here’s where a second payment method comes in handy. You’ll need a credit or debit card to cover any items or fees that aren’t eligible for EBT. Keep in mind that the Instacart shopper still needs to get paid, so you’ll need to add a tip for them. Remember to have this payment method ready before starting your order.
If you aren’t sure what is and isn’t covered by your EBT card, a good rule of thumb is to check in your cart before you checkout. Instacart will usually show you which items are EBT eligible, making it easy to know what you need to pay with a different method. If you are still unsure, check the list of covered items above.
Below is a table showing examples of things you can and can’t buy with EBT through Instacart.
| Eligible Items (EBT) | Non-Eligible Items (Non-EBT) |
|---|---|
| Fresh Produce | Alcohol |
| Meat and Seafood | Tobacco |
| Cereal and Bread | Pet Food |
| Dairy Products | Diapers |
| Snacks and Dry Goods | Delivery Fees |
Using EBT in Different States
While the general rules are the same, there might be slight variations depending on the state you live in. Some states might have specific rules or limitations on how EBT is used for online purchases. Always double-check the specific regulations in your state to be completely sure.
For instance, some states might have a different process for entering your EBT card information or handling fees. It’s a good idea to check your state’s official government website for the most up-to-date information on using EBT for online grocery shopping. These rules can change from time to time, so knowing the latest rules for your state is important. You can usually find this information by searching for “EBT [your state]” online.
Before ordering, it’s wise to confirm that Instacart is available in your area. Availability may vary depending on your location. Also, keep an eye out for any specific instructions for your state in the Instacart app or website. Many states have added these to help people get up to speed.
By making sure you understand the state-specific rules, you can use your benefits without any issues.
Troubleshooting EBT Payment Issues
Sometimes, you might run into a snag when trying to pay with your EBT card. Don’t worry; it’s usually something simple to fix. The first thing to check is your EBT card balance to make sure you have enough funds to cover the eligible items in your cart.
If you are sure you have enough money and the card isn’t working, here are some potential problems and some fixes:
- Incorrect Card Information: Double-check that you entered your EBT card number, expiration date, and security code correctly.
- Address Verification: Make sure the billing address you entered matches the address on file with your EBT card.
- Technical Issues: There could be a temporary glitch on the Instacart or payment processor’s end. Try restarting the app or website, or try again in a few minutes.
- Contact Instacart Support: If you’re still having trouble, contact Instacart’s customer support for assistance. They can help troubleshoot the issue and guide you through the payment process.
Often, Instacart support can resolve these problems. If your card still doesn’t work, you may have to reach out to your EBT card’s customer support team.
Tips for a Smooth Instacart EBT Experience
Want to make sure your Instacart experience using EBT is as smooth as possible? Here are some helpful tips. Start by planning your grocery list and adding items to your cart before starting the checkout process. This helps you avoid any last-minute surprises and gives you time to adjust your order if needed.
Another tip is to keep track of your EBT balance. This will allow you to avoid any payment declines at the checkout. Always read the fine print. Instacart may have special offers or promotions, but they often come with terms and conditions, such as only being able to be paid via credit or debit card.
Before checking out, review the items in your cart to separate the EBT-eligible items from those that are not. Instacart usually makes it easy to see which items are covered by your EBT benefits. Then, have your secondary payment method ready for non-eligible items and fees. Follow these steps.
- Plan your order
- Check your EBT balance
- Separate EBT eligible and non-eligible items
- Review the order
- Have payment options ready
By following these tips, you can maximize your convenience and ensure a seamless experience.
Conclusion
So, the answer to “Does Walmart accept EBT on Instacart?” is generally yes, but with a few important things to keep in mind. You can use your SNAP benefits to purchase eligible food items online through Instacart at participating Walmart locations. Just remember to separate the EBT-eligible items from non-eligible items, have a secondary payment method for the rest, and always check the rules for your specific state. With a little planning, you can enjoy the convenience of online grocery shopping while still using your EBT benefits.