Shopping online is super convenient, especially when you’re busy! And if you’re using SNAP benefits (that’s Food Stamps!), you might be wondering if you can use them to buy groceries on Walmart’s website or app. The good news is, you totally can! This guide will walk you through how to pay with Food Stamps on Walmart online, making grocery shopping a breeze.
What Can I Buy with SNAP on Walmart Online?
So, what exactly *can* you buy with your Food Stamps when shopping online at Walmart? The rules are pretty much the same as when you shop in the store. You can buy the usual suspects: groceries! That includes things like fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, and bread. You can also purchase seeds and plants that produce food. Essentially, if it’s a food item, you’re usually good to go.
However, there are some things you can’t buy with your SNAP benefits. These are generally the same restrictions you’d find in a physical Walmart store. Think about it like this: if you can’t buy it with Food Stamps in the store, you can’t buy it online either.
Items that are *not* eligible typically include alcohol, tobacco products, pet food, cleaning supplies, paper products, and non-food items like cosmetics or toiletries. Basically, it’s meant for food and food-growing items only!
You can use your SNAP benefits to purchase eligible food items on Walmart’s website and app.
Setting Up Your Walmart Account
Before you can even *think* about using your Food Stamps, you need a Walmart account. This is pretty simple, and you can easily create one on their website or through the Walmart app. You’ll need to provide some basic information like your name, email address, and create a password.
Once you have an account, you might want to consider saving your payment information, though *don’t* enter your EBT card details *yet*! This can save you time later, especially if you plan on ordering from Walmart regularly. You can also set your preferred shipping method and address.
It’s a good idea to explore the Walmart website or app before you start shopping. This will help you get familiar with the layout, search for products, and find what you need. Learning how to use the site/app first makes the checkout process much easier.
To make things easier, you could also consider downloading the Walmart app on your phone. It’s got all the same features as the website, and it’s super convenient for ordering on the go. You can find it in the App Store or Google Play Store.
Adding Your EBT Card to Your Account
Okay, now for the important part: adding your EBT card. After you’ve selected your items, go to the checkout page and look for the payment options. You should see an option for “EBT” or “SNAP.” Click on that.
You’ll need to enter your EBT card number. This is the long number on the front of your card, just like you would with a credit or debit card. You’ll also need to enter the expiration date. Double-check that you’ve entered it correctly to avoid any errors.
Walmart will also ask for your card’s PIN (Personal Identification Number). Make sure you enter your PIN correctly. This is the same PIN you use when swiping your card at a physical store. Keep your PIN private to protect your account!
After entering your EBT card information, you might be asked to verify your address. This is a standard security measure. After that, your EBT card will be linked to your Walmart account and ready to use for eligible purchases.
Selecting Your Groceries
Alright, let’s get to the fun part: shopping! Browse Walmart’s website or app for the items you need. You can search for specific products or browse by category.
When you find an item you want, click on it to see more details, like the price and size. Make sure you understand how much you will be paying for each item. If you’re purchasing by the pound, keep in mind the total weight you are putting into your cart.
Add the items you want to your cart. Remember, only eligible items can be purchased with your EBT card. Walmart’s system *should* automatically sort out which items are eligible, but it’s always a good idea to double-check. You can also check the product details for any information regarding SNAP eligibility.
Here’s a quick checklist to help you pick the right stuff:
- Fruits and Vegetables: Fresh, frozen, or canned (without added sugar)
- Meats and Poultry: Fresh, frozen, or canned
- Dairy: Milk, cheese, yogurt
- Grains: Bread, pasta, rice
- Seeds and Plants: For growing food
Choosing Delivery or Pickup Options
Walmart offers a few different ways to get your groceries. You can choose between home delivery or in-store pickup, also known as “Walmart Grocery Pickup”. Both options are pretty convenient, and the one you choose depends on your personal preferences and schedule.
With home delivery, your groceries are delivered right to your doorstep. This is great if you can’t easily get to a store or if you just prefer the convenience of not having to leave your house. Keep in mind that there may be a delivery fee associated with this option, and it is possible you may be required to meet a minimum order amount.
Grocery Pickup is another fantastic option. You place your order online and then drive to your local Walmart store at your scheduled pickup time. A Walmart employee will bring your groceries out to your car and load them for you. This is great if you want to save time and avoid the hassle of shopping in the store. It also allows you to avoid delivery fees.
Here’s a quick comparison of each option:
| Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Delivery | Convenience, saves time | Delivery fees, minimum order amounts may apply |
| Pickup | Saves time, no shopping required, no delivery fee | Requires a trip to the store |
Paying with Your EBT Card and Other Payment Methods
When you get to the checkout, make sure you’ve selected the items you want, and then look for the payment options. You should see an option for “EBT” or “SNAP.” Select this option. Then enter your EBT card number and the expiration date.
Here’s a little tip: If you have a mix of EBT-eligible and non-eligible items in your cart, you’ll likely need to use a second payment method to cover the cost of the non-eligible items. This could be a credit or debit card. Make sure you have another method of payment on hand.
If you’re using your EBT card, your food stamp balance will be used for the cost of eligible items. The remaining balance, if any, will need to be paid using a different payment method. It’s a good idea to know your SNAP balance before you shop. You can usually check your balance online through your state’s EBT website or by calling the phone number on the back of your EBT card.
Make sure you follow the steps carefully to complete your transaction. Once everything is complete, you will receive a confirmation that includes the details of your order, including the items purchased, the price, and when you should expect your order to be delivered or ready for pickup.
What if Something Goes Wrong?
Sometimes, things don’t go perfectly smoothly. If you have any problems while paying with your EBT card on Walmart’s website or app, don’t panic! There are a few things you can do.
First, double-check that you entered your EBT card information correctly. Make sure the card number, expiration date, and PIN are all accurate. Mistakes happen, so it’s always a good idea to verify the information.
If you’re still having trouble, contact Walmart’s customer service. You can usually find a phone number or online chat option on their website or app. Explain the problem and provide them with your order details. They’re there to help you!
Also, remember that you can reach out to your local SNAP office. They can sometimes help with issues related to your EBT card or benefits. This is especially useful if you suspect a problem with your account balance or eligibility.
Conclusion
Using your Food Stamps to shop online at Walmart is a really convenient way to get your groceries. By following these steps, you’ll be able to add your EBT card, choose your groceries, and select delivery or pickup. Remember to always double-check your order and the eligibility of the items you’re buying. Now you can enjoy the convenience of online shopping while still using your SNAP benefits!