Shopping for groceries can be a hassle, especially if you’re busy or have limited transportation. Luckily, Walmart offers a convenient solution with its online grocery shopping service, which now includes the ability to use EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) cards. This means you can order your groceries online from Walmart.com and use your SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits to pay for them, making it easier than ever to access healthy food. This guide will walk you through the ins and outs of using Walmart Online Shopping Groceries with EBT.
How Does Walmart Online Shopping Groceries EBT Work?
You might be wondering, “Can I really use my EBT card to shop online at Walmart for groceries?” Yes, absolutely! Walmart allows you to use your EBT card to pay for eligible grocery items when you order online for either pickup or delivery. This simplifies the process and gives you more flexibility in how you shop.
Setting Up Your Account and Adding Your EBT Card
The first step is to create a Walmart.com account if you don’t already have one. This is pretty straightforward; you’ll need to provide some basic information like your email address and create a password. Once you’re logged in, you’ll need to add your EBT card as a payment method. Before you can even start, you’ll need to make sure your state’s EBT program has allowed Walmart to accept your card.
Here’s how to add your EBT card:
- Go to your account settings on Walmart.com.
- Select “Payment methods.”
- Choose “Add a new payment method.”
- Enter your EBT card number, expiration date, and the name associated with the card.
- Save your payment information.
Important note: when you add your card, you may not see the option to add an EBT card, depending on whether or not your state is integrated. But don’t worry! You can still use your EBT card for your order. You just might need to use a different method. Once the card is added, your order is ready to go!
If you’re new to Walmart, here’s how to prepare:
- Make sure your state’s EBT program has been approved to be used at Walmart.
- Get the right website. Walmart.com will be needed. Other Walmarts, like Sam’s Club, cannot accept EBT.
- Create an account, and add your EBT card.
Placing Your First Walmart Online Groceries EBT Order
Browsing and Adding Items
Once your account is set up and your EBT card is saved, you can start shopping! Browse the Walmart website or app and add the groceries you need to your cart. Remember that your EBT card can typically only be used for eligible food items, like fruits, vegetables, meat, and dairy products. Non-food items, such as household supplies and personal care products, will need to be paid for using a different payment method.
As you shop, be mindful of the EBT-eligible items and how to identify them.
- Look for the “EBT eligible” tag on product pages.
- Choose items that meet your needs.
- If you are unsure, you may be able to see if the product is EBT eligible during checkout.
Here’s a quick guide:
| EBT Eligible | Not EBT Eligible |
|---|---|
| Fruits & Vegetables | Household Cleaners |
| Meats & Dairy | Alcohol |
| Grains & Cereals | Pet Supplies |
Checkout and Payment
When you’re ready to checkout, review your cart to make sure you have everything you need and that all the items are eligible for EBT. Select either pickup or delivery, and choose a time slot that works for you. On the payment page, select your EBT card. The website will likely ask you to enter your PIN number (the one you use at the grocery store) to authorize the payment.
Some additional points to consider during checkout:
- If your order includes items not eligible for EBT, you’ll need to use a different payment method for those.
- The website will separate your EBT-eligible items from the non-eligible items.
- You’ll pay for the EBT-ineligible items with a credit or debit card.
Once your payment is processed, you’ll receive a confirmation email with details about your order and pickup or delivery time.
Pickup and Delivery Options with Walmart Online Shopping Groceries EBT
Walmart offers both pickup and delivery options for online grocery orders using EBT. If you choose pickup, you’ll drive to your local Walmart store at the scheduled time, and an employee will bring your groceries to your car. Delivery brings your groceries right to your doorstep, which is super convenient, but it usually comes with a fee. Both options offer a safe and easy way to get your groceries, especially for those with mobility issues or limited transportation.
Here’s what you need to know about each option:
- **Pickup:** This is usually free, and you just drive to the store and have your groceries loaded into your car.
- **Delivery:** This comes with a delivery fee, and can be more convenient since it brings the groceries to you.
When choosing between pickup and delivery, here are some things to consider:
- Convenience: Delivery is more convenient.
- Cost: Pickup is often free.
- Availability: Delivery slots may be limited during busy times.
Dealing With Potential Issues
While using EBT for Walmart online grocery shopping is generally smooth, sometimes you might encounter issues. For example, you might not be able to add your EBT card, or your payment could be declined. If this happens, the first thing to do is double-check your card information to ensure it’s correct. Also, make sure you have enough money on your EBT card to cover the cost of your groceries.
Here’s a quick troubleshooting guide:
- Payment Declined: Check your EBT balance and make sure you entered your PIN correctly.
- Item Unavailable: Walmart might offer a substitute.
- Card Not Accepted: Double-check your EBT card info.
If the problem persists, don’t hesitate to contact Walmart customer service or your local EBT office for help. They can assist you with any technical difficulties and ensure you have a smooth shopping experience.
Here are a couple of things to remember.
- Double-check your balance to ensure there is enough money.
- Customer service is available if you run into any problems.
Conclusion
Using Walmart Online Shopping Groceries with EBT is a fantastic way to access healthy food conveniently and affordably. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily set up your account, add your EBT card, place your order, and choose pickup or delivery. This service provides greater flexibility and ease for those who rely on EBT benefits, making it simpler to manage your grocery shopping needs. So, go ahead and give it a try – you might find it’s the perfect solution for your busy lifestyle!