Shopping for groceries can be a hassle, but Walmart.com makes it easier, and that includes using your SNAP benefits (aka food stamps)! This guide will walk you through exactly **how to use food stamps on Walmart.com**, so you can get your groceries delivered to your door or pick them up at the store. We’ll cover the steps, what you can buy, and some helpful tips to make the process smooth.
Setting Up Your Account and SNAP Eligibility
Before you can even think about ordering, you need to make sure your Walmart.com account is ready to accept SNAP. First, you need to create an account or log in if you already have one. Next, you’ll need to add your SNAP EBT card to your payment methods. It’s a pretty straightforward process, and Walmart’s website usually has clear instructions to follow. This is crucial, otherwise, you won’t be able to use your benefits during checkout.
Walmart verifies your eligibility for SNAP by checking the information you provide. This is generally connected to the information tied to your physical SNAP card. If you are already getting benefits and have a valid card, then this step should be simple. If you are a new user, make sure your card is activated, and the information is correct. Be sure to contact your local SNAP office if you have any questions or trouble with SNAP benefits.
You can also add other payment methods to your account. This is useful because you might need to pay for non-SNAP-eligible items in the same order. For example, you might be buying diapers, which aren’t covered by SNAP. Credit cards or debit cards are options that can cover the costs of non-eligible items. Having multiple payment methods can make your checkout process easier.
The most important step to confirm your SNAP eligibility is to enter your EBT card details in the payment section of your Walmart.com account. This ensures that your SNAP benefits can be used for qualifying purchases.
What Can You Buy with SNAP?
Figuring out what you can and can’t buy with SNAP can sometimes be confusing. Generally, SNAP covers food items for human consumption. This means you can buy a lot of grocery items, but there are some restrictions. Think of it like what you’d normally purchase at a grocery store with cash or a debit card.
Here’s a quick rundown of what usually is okay to buy:
- Fruits and vegetables (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Dairy products
- Breads and cereals
- Snack foods
- Non-alcoholic beverages
However, there are also things that are typically *not* covered. This includes things like alcohol, tobacco products, pet food, paper products, and household supplies. You’ll need to use a different payment method for those.
Here’s a table with some examples:
| SNAP Eligible | Not SNAP Eligible |
|---|---|
| Milk | Beer |
| Eggs | Diapers |
| Cereal | Household Cleaners |
Shopping and Checking Out With Your EBT Card
Once your account is set up and you know what you can buy, it’s time to shop! Browse Walmart.com and add the items you want to your cart, just like you would normally. As you shop, pay attention to the items you select to ensure they are eligible for SNAP.
During the checkout process, you’ll select your preferred delivery or pickup option. You might choose to have your groceries delivered to your home or pick them up at the store. Be sure to check if your area offers grocery delivery or pickup. Delivery and pickup times will be available during checkout to help you choose a convenient time.
At the payment step, you will select your EBT card as your payment method. If you have eligible items in your cart, the website will automatically deduct the amount from your SNAP balance. If you have any items that are not eligible, the website will prompt you to pay for those items with another form of payment, such as a credit or debit card.
Here’s a short list to help you during checkout:
- Select your items.
- Go to checkout.
- Choose delivery or pickup.
- Select EBT card as payment.
- Enter your card details.
- Pay any remaining balance.
Understanding Delivery and Pickup Options
Walmart offers two main options for getting your groceries: delivery and in-store pickup. Both have their pros and cons, so choosing the right one depends on your needs. Each option is also a separate service, which may vary from store to store.
With delivery, your groceries are delivered directly to your doorstep. This is super convenient, especially if you don’t have transportation or are short on time. However, there’s usually a delivery fee, and you might have to be home to receive the order. Be sure to plan for the delivery window and have someone available if needed.
In-store pickup, on the other hand, is free and you get to pick up your groceries at the store. You order online, and a Walmart employee will gather your items. All you have to do is drive to the store and pick them up. Check your Walmart location for their pickup hours. Keep in mind that the availability of pickup and delivery options may vary depending on your location and the time of day.
Here are some things to consider when choosing:
- Delivery: Convenient, but has a fee. Requires someone to be home.
- Pickup: Free, but you have to go to the store.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sometimes, things don’t go exactly as planned. Here are some common problems people face when using SNAP on Walmart.com and how to fix them.
One common issue is getting an error message when trying to pay with your EBT card. Double-check that you’ve entered the card number, expiration date, and security code correctly. Make sure you have enough funds on your EBT card. If you are still having problems, it is best to contact the EBT customer service.
Another issue is that some items might not be eligible for SNAP, even if you think they should be. It’s always a good idea to review the product descriptions to make sure they are classified as food. For example, ready-to-eat meals are often excluded, while ingredients you cook yourself are usually fine. If you’re unsure, it’s always better to check than to have your order rejected.
Sometimes, there might be a problem with delivery or pickup. Double-check the pickup time or delivery window that was selected. If there is an issue, contact Walmart customer service. It’s always a good idea to keep your order confirmation and any tracking information handy.
Here’s a checklist to solve some basic issues:
- Double check card information.
- Check the balance on your EBT card.
- Make sure your items are SNAP eligible.
- Contact Walmart customer service for any issues.
In conclusion, using food stamps on Walmart.com is a simple and convenient way to get your groceries. By following these steps and understanding the guidelines, you can easily shop online and have your food delivered or picked up. Remember to add your EBT card, shop for eligible items, and choose the delivery or pickup option that works best for you. Happy shopping!