EBT and Scan and Go: How It Works
Scan and Go technology allows shoppers to use a retailer's mobile app to scan items as they place them in their cart, skipping the traditional checkout line. For SNAP recipients, this offers a new level of convenience. The integration of EBT with this technology has been a gradual process, but several major chains have now adopted it, allowing for a combined payment method at checkout.
The Checkout Process with EBT
When using Scan and Go with EBT, the process typically involves a 'split tender' transaction. The app automatically segregates your items into two categories: those eligible for SNAP benefits (like most foods) and those that are not (like household goods or hot, prepared meals). When you get to the payment screen within the app, you will apply your EBT funds first to cover the eligible items. The remaining balance for non-eligible items must then be paid using a separate method, such as a debit card, credit card, or gift card.
Retailers That Accept EBT for Scan and Go
Availability is key, and not all retailers offer this service universally across all locations. Here are some of the major players:
- Sam's Club: A pioneer in this area, Sam's Club explicitly accepts EBT for in-club purchases made with their Scan & Go feature. They were one of the first major retailers to fully integrate digital EBT payments for physical transactions.
- Walmart: While not explicitly branded as 'Scan and Go' in their app, Walmart does offer a mobile check-out feature (often tied to Walmart+ membership perks) that supports EBT payments for eligible items. You can use your EBT card through the app for both in-store mobile checkout and for online pickup or delivery orders.
- Kroger Family of Stores: Kroger allows EBT for online pickup and delivery orders through its app, with customers adding their EBT card details in their digital wallet. However, their in-store 'KroGO' feature is not compatible with EBT, requiring a separate order at self-checkout for EBT purchases.
How to Add Your EBT Card to the App
The process of adding your EBT card to a retailer's app is generally straightforward but may differ slightly.
- Access Payment Settings: Navigate to your account or payment settings within the retailer's app (e.g., Walmart, Sam's Club, Kroger).
- Add Payment Method: Select the option to add a new payment method and choose 'EBT' or 'SNAP EBT'.
- Enter Card Details: Input your EBT card number and your name exactly as it appears on the card. Unlike credit cards, EBT cards do not have a CVV code.
- Confirm and Save: Follow the prompts to save your card information. For security reasons, you may not be able to store your PIN, which is typically entered during the final payment step for each transaction.
Limitations and Considerations
While the integration of EBT with Scan and Go offers great convenience, there are some important limitations to keep in mind:
- Not All Stores: Even within a chain that accepts EBT with Scan and Go, not every individual store location may have the feature enabled. Always check with your local store or the app's location-specific settings.
- Split Payments Required: You will always need a second form of payment for non-eligible items or for any applicable service fees. This can cause confusion if you don't track your cart's contents carefully. Instacart, for example, requires a backup credit or debit card on file.
- In-store vs. Online: Many retailers that accept EBT for online orders (pickup or delivery) may have different rules for their in-store Scan and Go features. Make sure you understand the specific policy for the type of shopping you are doing.
EBT and Scan and Go vs. Traditional Checkout
| Feature | EBT & Scan and Go | Traditional Checkout |
|---|---|---|
| Convenience | Allows shoppers to skip the checkout line, paying directly from their phone. | Requires waiting in line to be checked out by a cashier or at a self-checkout kiosk. |
| Split Payment | App automatically splits eligible and non-eligible items for separate payment methods. | Cashier or self-checkout screen prompts for EBT and then for a second payment method. |
| Bagging | Allows for bagging as you shop, potentially speeding up the process. | Bagging is done at the end of the transaction after all items have been scanned. |
| Availability | Dependent on retailer support and specific store location. Not universally available. | Widely available at most SNAP-authorized retail locations across the country. |
| Security | Uses secure mobile payment processes and may involve in-app PIN entry. | Secure PIN pad entry, but requires interaction with a physical terminal. |
Conclusion
For many SNAP recipients, the ability to add EBT to Scan and Go is a significant enhancement to the modern grocery shopping experience. By allowing mobile payment and eliminating checkout lines, this technology offers greater speed and convenience. As with any newer feature, understanding the specifics for your chosen retailer is critical, especially regarding payment splitting and location availability. Checking your local store's app or website will provide the most current information, ensuring a smooth and successful transaction. As more retailers continue to modernize their payment systems, we can expect this feature to become even more commonplace, providing greater access to fresh food and essentials for SNAP participants. National Council on Aging's resource on EBT online payments is a reliable source for general information on which retailers support EBT online, and can often be a good indicator for in-app support.
