Does Dollar General Take EBT? Your Guide to Using SNAP Benefits

As of early 2025, Dollar General accepts Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) for in-store purchases and has also expanded its payment options to include online SNAP/EBT payments for delivery orders placed through its partnership with DoorDash. This acceptance makes it a convenient option for many Americans to buy food and household staples.

Quick Summary

Yes, Dollar General accepts EBT for eligible food purchases at most of its retail locations. Additionally, the store has partnered with DoorDash to offer SNAP/EBT online payments for eligible grocery delivery, greatly expanding access for beneficiaries.

Key Points

• Accepts EBT: Yes, Dollar General accepts EBT/SNAP benefits for eligible food purchases at most of its locations nationwide.

• Online Delivery Available: Customers can use EBT for online grocery delivery from Dollar General by ordering through the DoorDash Marketplace.

• In-Store Procedure: The process for in-store purchases involves swiping your EBT card and entering your PIN at the point of sale.

• Eligible Items Only: EBT can only be used for food items; separate payment is required for non-food items, delivery fees, or tips.

• Convenience for Shoppers: The acceptance of EBT, both in-store and for online delivery, provides greater accessibility for SNAP recipients, particularly those with mobility issues.

Using Your EBT Card at Dollar General

For many SNAP beneficiaries, knowing where and how to use their EBT card is crucial for managing their household budget. Dollar General, with its thousands of locations, is a popular destination for many shoppers looking for affordable groceries and household essentials. The store's acceptance of EBT cards, often referred to as 'food stamps,' allows customers to purchase eligible items both in person and via delivery services.

In-Store EBT Transactions

When shopping inside a Dollar General store, the process for using an EBT card is straightforward and mirrors a typical debit card transaction. When you check out, you will swipe your EBT card and enter your confidential four-digit PIN to approve the purchase. The total transaction will be automatically deducted from your EBT food benefits balance. If your total includes items not covered by EBT (e.g., household cleaning supplies, paper products, hygiene items), you will need to pay for those separately using an alternative payment method, such as cash, debit, or credit.

Here’s a step-by-step guide for using your EBT card in-store:

• Shop for eligible food items and bring them to the register.
• At checkout, inform the cashier you will be using your EBT card.
• Swipe your card and enter your PIN when prompted.
• If your purchase includes both EBT-eligible and non-eligible items, the system will split the total. You will then pay for the non-eligible items separately.
• Keep your receipt to track your remaining balance.

Online EBT Transactions via DoorDash

In a significant expansion of its payment options in early 2025, Dollar General partnered with DoorDash to enable online SNAP/EBT payments for delivery orders. This partnership is especially beneficial for customers who have limited mobility or transportation access. Through the DoorDash Marketplace, SNAP beneficiaries can now order groceries from participating Dollar General locations and pay with their EBT card. This makes it easier to access pantry staples, snacks, and essentials from the comfort of their home.

To use EBT for a Dollar General delivery via DoorDash, follow these steps:

• Ensure your local Dollar General participates in the DoorDash partnership for SNAP/EBT delivery.
• Add your SNAP/EBT card to your DoorDash account as a payment method.
• Select eligible food items from the Dollar General store on the DoorDash app or website.
• At checkout, select your EBT card as the payment method. You may need to use a second form of payment for non-eligible items, delivery fees, or tips.
• Confirm your order and track the delivery to your home.

What Items Are EBT Eligible at Dollar General?

Federal regulations for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) determine which items are eligible for purchase with an EBT card. At Dollar General, this means you can buy most staple food items, but not prepared foods or non-food items.

Common EBT-eligible items include:

• Fruits and vegetables (fresh, frozen, and canned)
• Meat, poultry, and fish
• Dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt)
• Breads and cereals
• Snack foods
• Non-alcoholic beverages (soda, juice)
• Seeds and plants that produce food

Common EBT-ineligible items include:

• Alcoholic beverages
• Tobacco products
• Prepared hot food
• Pet food
• Cleaning supplies
• Paper products
• Cosmetics and health and beauty products
• Vitamins and medicine

Comparison: In-Store vs. DoorDash EBT at Dollar General

Feature	In-Store EBT	DoorDash EBT (Delivery)
Payment Process	Swipe card at checkout, enter PIN.	Add EBT card to DoorDash app, pay at checkout.
Eligible Items	Most SNAP-eligible foods available in-store.	Most SNAP-eligible foods available for delivery.
Non-EBT Items	Pay with separate form of payment.	Pay with a separate form of payment via the app.
Delivery Fees	Not applicable.	Delivery fees and service charges may apply and must be paid separately.
Convenience	Shop and take items home immediately.	Convenient for those with mobility issues or without transportation.
Additional Costs	None.	May incur additional costs for delivery and tip.
Product Availability	Dependent on current store inventory.	Dependent on store inventory and what is listed on the DoorDash platform.

Important Considerations for EBT Shoppers

Check Your Local Store: While EBT acceptance is widespread at Dollar General, always confirm if your specific location is set up for it. In very rare cases, a system issue could prevent EBT use. The DoorDash delivery option is also dependent on local store participation.

Use for Food Only: Remember that EBT can only be used for approved food purchases. You will need another form of payment to cover non-food items, as the system will not allow the transaction to proceed otherwise.

Stay Informed: EBT and online payment options can evolve. It is wise to stay updated on any changes by checking the Dollar General or DoorDash websites. This ensures you are always aware of the latest policies, especially regarding new partnerships or program updates.

Budget Wisely: The convenience of using EBT at Dollar General, especially through delivery, should be balanced with smart budgeting. Track your balance and plan your purchases to ensure your benefits last throughout the month.

Conclusion

To answer the question, "Does Dollar General take EBT?"—yes, it does, both in its physical stores and through a relatively recent partnership with DoorDash for delivery services. This broad acceptance, coupled with its expansive network of stores across the country, makes Dollar General an accessible and convenient grocery option for many SNAP beneficiaries. By understanding the payment process and the distinction between eligible and ineligible items, shoppers can effectively use their EBT benefits to purchase essential food items for their households.

Center for Science in the Public Interest: Feed Families Better, Dollar General

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use EBT for online orders from Dollar General?

Yes, Dollar General has partnered with DoorDash to allow customers to use their SNAP/EBT cards to pay for eligible online delivery orders.

Are all Dollar General stores equipped to accept EBT?

Most Dollar General stores accept EBT. However, it is always a good idea to confirm with your local store or check for EBT-enabled stores on the DoorDash app for delivery.

What items can I not buy with my EBT card at Dollar General?

You cannot use EBT to purchase non-food items such as alcohol, tobacco, paper goods, household cleaning supplies, hygiene products, or hot, prepared foods.

What happens if my purchase contains both EBT and non-EBT items?

At checkout, the system will separate the items. You will pay for the EBT-eligible food items with your EBT card and use another form of payment for the remaining non-eligible items.

Is there a delivery fee when using EBT with DoorDash for Dollar General orders?

Yes, delivery fees and other service charges may apply to DoorDash orders. These fees are not covered by EBT and must be paid with an alternative payment method.

Can I use my EBT cash benefits at Dollar General?

Yes, you can use your EBT cash benefits at Dollar General to purchase items that are not typically covered by SNAP food benefits, such as toiletries or household goods. This functions like a regular debit card transaction.

Does Dollar General accept WIC?

Unlike EBT/SNAP, Dollar General does not widely accept WIC benefits. It is recommended to check with individual stores and check the official WIC retailer directory for participating locations.

How do I check my EBT balance at Dollar General?

While the cashier can often provide your balance, the best way to track your EBT funds is to check your receipt after a purchase. You can also contact your state's EBT customer service number or use an official mobile app.