Shopping online can be super convenient, and Walmart.com is a popular spot for groceries and other household items. If you receive food stamps, also known as SNAP benefits, you might be wondering if you can use them to shop online at Walmart.com. The good news is, you absolutely can! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about using your EBT card on Walmart’s website so you can easily get the food you need.
What Items Can I Buy with Food Stamps on Walmart.com?
You can use your SNAP benefits on Walmart.com to purchase eligible food items. This means you can get things like fresh produce, meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, bread, cereals, snacks, and non-alcoholic beverages. It’s like shopping in the grocery section of a regular Walmart store, just online! But, there are some restrictions, just like in the physical store.
You won’t be able to use your EBT card for non-food items. Items like cleaning supplies, paper products, pet food, and health and beauty aids are not eligible. Also, if you order food items that can be eaten in the store (like a hot rotisserie chicken) they can’t be paid for with food stamps.
Always make sure to double-check the items in your cart before checkout to ensure they are SNAP-eligible. Walmart.com will usually indicate which items qualify, but it’s always a good idea to review your order to avoid any surprises. Remember, if you’re unsure, it’s generally best to err on the side of caution and exclude those items from your SNAP purchase.
Here are some examples of items you CAN buy with SNAP:
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Meat and Poultry
- Dairy Products
- Breads and Cereals
Setting Up Your Walmart.com Account to Use EBT
Sign Up for Walmart.com
The first step is to create a Walmart.com account. You’ll need a valid email address and you’ll also need to create a password. This is the same process as signing up for any other online store. If you already have an account, great! Just log in.
Adding Your EBT Card
Once you’re logged in, you need to add your EBT card information to your account. This is done in the “Payment methods” section. You might need to enter the card number, expiration date, and possibly the name associated with the card. Make sure you are using the correct card number that is associated with the EBT benefits.
Verifying Your Information
Walmart.com might have a verification process to confirm your EBT card details. This could involve a small charge or other steps to validate the information. Follow the instructions to complete the verification and to secure your information. You will need your PIN to make purchases.
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to setting up your account:
- Go to Walmart.com and either sign in or create an account.
- Click on “Account” (usually in the top right corner).
- Select “Payment methods.”
- Add your EBT card information.
Placing Your Walmart.com Order with Food Stamps
Shopping for SNAP-Eligible Items
Now comes the fun part – shopping! Browse the Walmart.com website and add the SNAP-eligible items you want to your cart. The website usually labels items that qualify for SNAP, so it’s easy to tell what you can purchase with your EBT card. Double-check your cart before you start the checkout process to ensure that all your food items qualify.
Selecting Delivery or Pickup
Walmart.com offers different options for getting your groceries, including delivery and pickup. Delivery might have a fee. With pickup, you order online and then go to the store to pick up your order. Both options allow you to use your EBT card. Be sure to choose the option that works best for you!
Payment and Checkout
When you’re ready to pay, proceed to checkout and select your EBT card as your payment method. You’ll probably need to enter your EBT card PIN. This is just like using your card at a physical store. Once the payment goes through, you will receive an order confirmation, and your groceries will be prepared for delivery or pickup.
Here is a simple breakdown:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Add SNAP-eligible items to your cart. |
| 2 | Proceed to checkout. |
| 3 | Select your EBT card as the payment method. |
| 4 | Enter your EBT PIN. |
| 5 | Confirm and complete your order. |
Dealing with Issues and Managing Your EBT Balance
Checking Your EBT Balance
Keeping track of your EBT balance is important! You can check your balance online through your state’s EBT website or using an app. Many states also have a toll-free number you can call to check your balance. Knowing how much money you have left will help you plan your shopping trips effectively.
Dealing with Order Problems
Sometimes, things can go wrong. If you encounter any issues with your order, such as missing items or damaged products, contact Walmart.com customer service. They have a team that can help resolve problems, and you may be issued a refund if necessary. Always keep your order confirmation for reference.
Splitting Payments
If your order includes both SNAP-eligible and non-eligible items, you may need to split your payment. You can usually pay for the SNAP-eligible items with your EBT card and the rest with another form of payment. Be sure to separate the items correctly before you check out.
Here are some tips:
- Keep your EBT card and PIN safe.
- Check your EBT balance regularly.
- Contact customer service with any problems.
Conclusion
Using food stamps on Walmart.com is a convenient and helpful way to buy groceries. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily set up your account, place your order, and have food delivered or ready for pickup. Remember to check your balance, understand what items are eligible, and contact customer service if you have any questions. Now you’re ready to shop!