Misfits Market's Current Payment Policy
Misfits Market's help center explicitly states that they do not currently accept SNAP or EBT benefits as a payment method. They have, however, publicly acknowledged that they are working towards accepting EBT in the future to make fresh food more accessible. For the time being, customers must use other accepted forms of payment for their purchases.
Why Misfits Market Doesn't Accept SNAP/EBT
The integration of SNAP/EBT payments for online platforms is a complex process. It requires vendors to meet specific technical and administrative requirements set by the USDA. For a company like Misfits Market, becoming an authorized SNAP online retailer involves extensive technological development and certification to securely process EBT transactions. Given that Misfits Market and Imperfect Foods merged, this integration may have become a larger, more complex project.
How Online EBT Processing Works
Online EBT processing differs from a traditional in-store transaction. The USDA has been expanding its online purchasing program, allowing authorized retailers to accept SNAP benefits for online orders. This process usually involves:
- A secure payment gateway that separates eligible food items from ineligible non-food items.
- Verification of the EBT card's PIN number and balance during the online checkout process.
- The ability to pay for any non-eligible items, such as shipping fees or certain grocery items, with a separate credit or debit card.
Comparison: Misfits Market vs. SNAP-Eligible Online Grocers
| Feature | Misfits Market | SNAP-Eligible Online Retailer (e.g., Walmart, Amazon) |
|---|---|---|
| Accepts SNAP/EBT? | No | Yes (for eligible items) |
| Primary Focus | Rescuing food and delivering organic, high-quality groceries | Wide variety of groceries, household items, and more |
| Delivery Model | Subscription and a la carte models available | Usually offers various delivery and pickup options |
| Payment Methods | Credit card, debit card, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Sezzle | EBT, credit card, debit card, and other forms of payment |
| Service Expansion | Still working toward accepting EBT | Already an approved participant in the USDA's online SNAP program |
What payment methods does Misfits Market accept?
Currently, Misfits Market accepts several standard payment methods for its grocery service, which include:
- All major US credit and debit cards
- Pre-paid Visa cards
- Apple Pay
- Google Pay
- Buy Now, Pay Later service Sezzle
Alternatives to Misfits Market that accept SNAP/EBT
For those who need to use their SNAP benefits, several other online grocery retailers are authorized to accept EBT payments for eligible food items. These include:
- Walmart: A vast selection of groceries is available for online ordering and curbside pickup using SNAP benefits.
- Amazon: Eligible shoppers can use their EBT card to purchase SNAP-eligible groceries online, with some additional perks like free shipping on qualifying orders.
- Local grocery stores: Many brick-and-mortar grocery stores with online ordering services also participate in the online SNAP program. Checking your local store's website is the best way to determine their policy.
Conclusion: Navigating Payment Options
In summary, shoppers cannot currently use Snap on Misfits Market. The company has announced plans to implement this feature in the future to improve food accessibility. In the meantime, customers can use other forms of payment or explore SNAP-eligible alternatives like Walmart or Amazon for their online grocery needs. Staying updated on Misfits Market's blog or social media is the best way to know when their EBT payment option becomes available.
For more information on the federal SNAP program and its online purchasing pilot, you can visit the USDA Food and Nutrition Service website.
