Shopping online can be super convenient, and if you use food stamps, also known as SNAP benefits, you might be wondering how to use them at Walmart.com. Luckily, Walmart makes it pretty easy to use your EBT card for eligible food purchases. This guide will walk you through the steps, explain the rules, and give you some tips for a smooth online shopping experience. Let’s dive in and learn how to use food stamps on Walmart.com!
Are All Items Eligible for Purchase With Food Stamps?
One of the first questions many people have is, “What can I actually buy with my SNAP benefits?” The rules are pretty straightforward. You can use your EBT card to purchase food items. This includes things like fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, and bread. Basically, anything that’s considered a grocery item is fair game.
Yes, you can use your EBT card on Walmart.com to purchase eligible food items, just like in the physical store. This includes fresh produce, frozen foods, canned goods, and even some snack foods.
However, there are some things you CANNOT buy with SNAP benefits. These are mostly non-food items. You can’t use your EBT card to buy things like alcohol, tobacco products, pet food, paper products, or household supplies. The good news is that Walmart.com clearly labels which items are eligible, so it’s easy to know what you can and can’t purchase with your EBT card.
Always double-check the product description if you’re unsure, and remember that using your EBT for ineligible items could jeopardize your benefits. When you’re shopping online, the website will usually filter out ineligible items, which helps make sure you only see what you can buy.
Creating Your Walmart.com Account
Before you can start using your EBT card, you need a Walmart.com account. This is easy to do! You’ll just need an email address and to create a password. If you already shop at Walmart, you may already have one!
Here’s a quick step-by-step guide to setting up your account:
- Go to Walmart.com.
- Click on the “Sign In” button in the top right corner.
- Choose “Create an Account.”
- Enter your email address, create a password, and fill in your personal information.
- Review and agree to the terms and conditions, then click “Create Account.”
Once you’ve created your account, you’re ready to start adding items to your cart. You might want to add your payment methods, including your EBT card, before you start shopping to make the checkout process easier. Setting up your account beforehand is an essential first step to purchasing items.
Remember to keep your account information safe and secure. Use a strong password and don’t share your login details with anyone.
Adding Your EBT Card to Your Account
The next important step is adding your EBT card to your Walmart.com account. This allows the website to recognize your benefits and let you use them during checkout. It’s a simple process that will save you time later.
Follow these steps to add your EBT card:
- Log in to your Walmart.com account.
- Go to “Account” (usually in the top right corner).
- Click on “Payment methods.”
- Select “Add a payment method.”
- Choose “EBT card.”
You’ll need to enter your EBT card number, the expiration date, and your name. You might also need to enter the billing address associated with your EBT card, which is usually the address where you receive your food stamps. Make sure the information is correct to avoid any issues during checkout. Double check everything and then save your information.
Once your card is added, Walmart.com will save it for future purchases, making it easier to shop online.
Shopping and Checking Out with Your EBT Card
Now comes the fun part: shopping! Browse the website and add eligible food items to your cart, just like you would if you were buying anything else online. Make sure the items are clearly marked as food. Once you’ve gathered everything you need, it’s time to check out.
Here’s how to check out using your EBT card:
- Proceed to your shopping cart.
- Click “Checkout.”
- Select your preferred delivery or pickup option (more on that later).
- Choose your EBT card as your payment method.
- If you have a mix of EBT-eligible and non-eligible items, you might need to use a second payment method for the ineligible items.
The website will then guide you through the payment process. When the payment part arrives, Walmart will ask you how much you want to pay with your EBT card. Enter the amount you want to use. If there is a remaining balance, it will ask for your other payment.
Double-check your order summary to ensure everything is correct before finalizing your purchase. You’ll receive an order confirmation email with the details of your purchase and pickup or delivery instructions.
Delivery and Pickup Options
Walmart.com offers different ways to get your groceries: delivery and pickup. Both are convenient options, but they work a little differently when you’re using an EBT card.
Here’s a quick overview:
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Delivery | Your groceries are delivered to your doorstep. There might be a delivery fee and you typically need to meet a minimum purchase requirement. |
| Pickup | You place your order online and pick it up at a designated Walmart store. This is usually free, and you pick up your groceries at a specific time. |
When checking out with your EBT card, you might need to pay any associated delivery fees or the cost of items that aren’t eligible with a different payment method, such as a credit or debit card. Pickup is a good choice because you don’t have to pay a delivery fee.
Check the terms and conditions of the delivery or pickup service before you finalize your order. Make sure you understand any fees, minimum purchase requirements, and the timeframe for delivery or pickup. Walmart often sends reminders for pickup orders. Make sure you go at the specified time!
In conclusion, using food stamps on Walmart.com is a straightforward process. By creating an account, adding your EBT card, and understanding the rules, you can easily shop for eligible food items online. Remember to check for eligible items, choose your preferred delivery or pickup option, and follow the steps during checkout. With a little practice, you’ll be a pro at using your EBT card for online grocery shopping, making your life easier and more convenient!