The ability to use Snap on online grocery shopping has revolutionized access to fresh food and pantry staples for millions of Americans. Through a program managed by the USDA, participants in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) can now shop online at numerous authorized retailers, making grocery shopping more convenient and accessible. This guide will walk you through how the process works, which stores are participating, and what to expect when paying with an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card online.
How the SNAP Online Purchasing Process Works
Using your EBT card for online grocery purchases is a simple and secure process that mimics the in-store experience in many ways.
Step-by-Step Guide for Online Shopping with EBT
- Find an eligible retailer: Not all stores that accept EBT in person are authorized for online purchases. You must use a retailer or third-party service, like Instacart or Amazon, that is approved for the USDA's online purchasing program.
- Add your EBT card to your account: On the retailer's website or app, navigate to your account or payment settings and add your EBT card information. You may need to have a separate credit or debit card on file for non-eligible purchases and fees.
- Shop for eligible items: As you browse, look for products marked as "SNAP EBT eligible". Many retailers have a filter option to show only eligible items, making the process smoother.
- Checkout and pay with EBT: During checkout, select your EBT card as the payment method. You will be prompted to enter your confidential EBT PIN to authorize the transaction, just like in a physical store. The system will automatically charge your EBT funds only for eligible items. You will then use your other payment method for any remaining balance, non-eligible items, and fees.
Participating Online Retailers
Many major retailers and third-party delivery services now participate in the online SNAP purchasing program. It is important to check the availability in your specific zip code, as some locations or individual stores may not be part of the program.
Major Retailers and Grocery Delivery Services
- Walmart: Offers both delivery and free curbside pickup for online EBT orders. The Walmart+ membership for EBT households is offered at a discounted rate.
- Amazon: SNAP EBT cardholders can use their benefits on Amazon Fresh and Whole Foods Market orders. Eligible EBT cardholders can also receive a discounted Prime membership.
- Instacart: Partners with many major grocery chains to allow online EBT shopping for delivery and pickup. The service is available in all 50 states and Washington, D.C.
- ALDI: This discount grocery chain is a common participant in online SNAP programs, often through partnerships with delivery services.
- Kroger: A large supermarket chain accepting SNAP EBT for online orders, typically for both delivery and pickup.
What You Can and Cannot Buy Online with SNAP
Online purchases with SNAP are subject to the same eligibility rules as in-store purchases.
Eligible Items
- Fruits and vegetables
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Dairy products
- Breads and cereals
- Snack foods, soft drinks, and non-alcoholic beverages
- Seeds and plants that produce food
Ineligible Items
- Hot, ready-to-eat foods
- Alcoholic beverages, tobacco products
- Non-food items such as pet food, household supplies, and hygiene products
- Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
- Delivery, service, or other applicable fees
Comparison of Online Shopping Options
| Feature | Retailer Websites (e.g., Walmart, Amazon) | Third-Party Apps (e.g., Instacart) |
|---|---|---|
| Retailer Choice | Limited to that specific store's product selection. | Access to multiple stores, allowing for comparison shopping and a broader range of products. |
| Account Setup | Requires creating an account directly with the retailer. | Requires an account with the third-party app; link your EBT card within their platform. |
| Delivery/Pickup | Options vary by retailer, often offering in-store pickup or direct delivery. | Primarily offers on-demand delivery, but many partners also support in-store pickup. |
| EBT Use | EBT card can only be used for eligible food items from that retailer. | You can use your EBT card at any participating store available on the platform. |
| Fees | Delivery fees and rules vary by retailer; non-EBT eligible. Some offer free options with minimum purchase or membership discounts. | Can include service fees, delivery fees, and tips, all of which are non-EBT eligible. EBT cardholders may qualify for special discounts. |
The Expansion of Online SNAP
The USDA's online SNAP purchasing program has seen significant expansion, particularly in recent years. This was initially piloted to increase food access and has grown to include nearly every state in the U.S.. The program aims to provide low-income households with the same shopping convenience as other consumers, while also providing improved access for those in food deserts or with mobility challenges. The USDA continues to support expansion by providing technical support and grants to help smaller, local retailers join the online marketplace.
Conclusion
The ability to use Snap on online grocery shopping is a powerful tool for improving food access and convenience for millions of people. While the core rules of the SNAP program remain the same—eligible items only, no coverage for fees—the online purchasing pilot has successfully brought modern shopping options to a vital government assistance program. By understanding which retailers are participating and how the checkout process works, SNAP recipients can take full advantage of this modern, secure, and convenient way to shop for groceries.
Navigating Online SNAP
For further details and updates on the online SNAP program, refer to the official USDA Food and Nutrition Service website.
Conclusion
The ability to use Snap on online grocery shopping is a powerful tool for improving food access and convenience for millions of people. While the core rules of the SNAP program remain the same—eligible items only, no coverage for fees—the online purchasing pilot has successfully brought modern shopping options to a vital government assistance program. By understanding which retailers are participating and how the checkout process works, SNAP recipients can take full advantage of this modern, secure, and convenient way to shop for groceries.
