While it's a common misconception that Whole Foods Market doesn't accept EBT, the company confirms that all its U.S. stores accept EBT cards for eligible food purchases. However, for many shoppers, the desire for alternatives stems from budget constraints or a need for different product selections. The good news is that the list of retailers accepting EBT has grown significantly, especially for online shopping, thanks to the USDA's SNAP Online Purchasing Pilot program. This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of your options beyond Whole Foods.
Major Supermarket Chains and Big-Box Stores
Beyond Whole Foods, a vast number of major retailers across the U.S. accept SNAP EBT, including online services. These stores offer everything from pantry staples to organic produce, often at a more accessible price point.
- Walmart: A leader in SNAP online purchasing, Walmart accepts EBT for online grocery pickup and delivery in all 50 states. Shoppers can add their EBT card details to their account online or via the app. Walmart+ members receiving SNAP can also get a discounted membership, which includes free delivery on eligible orders.
- Target: Target has joined the online EBT program, allowing shoppers to use their SNAP benefits for eligible grocery items on Target.com for order pickup and delivery via Shipt. Delivery fees for Shipt are not covered by EBT and must be paid with another form of payment.
- Aldi: Known for its low prices, Aldi accepts SNAP EBT payments for both in-store purchases and online orders placed through Instacart. This offers an excellent way to stretch your benefits on quality food items.
- Kroger: This grocery giant offers SNAP EBT payment for grocery pickup at most of its locations where pickup is available. It has also expanded online EBT acceptance to some of its subsidiary brands.
- Safeway and Albertsons: Part of the same parent company, these chains accept EBT online for both delivery and DriveUp & Go pickup orders. Availability can vary by state, so checking your local store's website is recommended.
- BJ's Wholesale Club: The first major warehouse club to accept EBT for online grocery orders, BJ's allows EBT payment for curbside pickup, delivery, and in-club pickup in many states.
- Costco and Sam's Club: Both warehouse clubs accept EBT cards in-store, but neither currently accepts EBT for purchases made on their websites. However, Sam's Club allows EBT payment via their Scan & Go app in warehouses.
Online Delivery and Subscription Services
For maximum convenience, several online-only and delivery-focused platforms accept EBT.
- Amazon: As the parent company of Whole Foods, Amazon is a crucial online EBT destination. SNAP recipients can use their EBT card on Amazon.com and Amazon Fresh for eligible items. SNAP users are also eligible for a discounted Amazon Prime Access membership, offering additional benefits.
- Instacart: This popular service partners with numerous retailers, including Aldi, Publix, and Wegmans, to enable EBT payment for delivery and pickup. Fees for delivery and service are not covered by EBT.
- DoorDash and Uber Eats: Both of these food delivery giants have expanded to include grocery delivery from participating SNAP-approved stores and accept EBT for payment. They often provide special offers, like discounted DashPass subscriptions or reduced delivery fees, for EBT users.
- Thrive Market: A membership-based online market focusing on healthy and sustainable products, Thrive Market accepts EBT in participating states. The membership fee is waived for all SNAP recipients.
Farmers Markets and Food Co-ops
For those seeking fresh, local, and organic options, farmers markets and food co-ops are excellent alternatives. Many participate in programs that double the value of EBT dollars for fresh produce, boosting your budget while supporting local farmers.
- How it works: At participating markets, you visit a central information booth to swipe your EBT card and receive tokens. You can then use these tokens at vendor stalls to purchase eligible items.
- Benefit Matching: Programs like Double Up Food Bucks allow you to match your SNAP dollars, stretching your benefits further on fresh fruits and vegetables.
- Food Co-ops: Many community-owned food co-ops, like Concord Food Co-op and East End Food Co-op, proudly accept SNAP/EBT benefits. Some even offer additional discounts or benefits for SNAP users.
Comparison of Major EBT Online Retailers
| Feature | Walmart | Amazon | Instacart | DoorDash / Uber Eats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EBT Payment | Online for pickup/delivery | Online via Amazon.com or Amazon Fresh | Online for delivery/pickup from partner stores | Online for grocery delivery from partner stores |
| Fees Covered by EBT | No, fees paid separately | No, fees paid separately | No, fees paid separately | No, delivery/service fees paid separately |
| Availability | All 50 states for online pickup/delivery | Most states (except Alaska) | All 50 states for pickup/delivery | All 50 states for pickup/delivery |
| SNAP Benefits/Discounts | Discounted Walmart+ membership | Discounted Prime Access membership | Discount on Instacart+ membership | Discounted DashPass or temporary free delivery |
| Whole Foods Access | No | Yes, through Amazon Fresh or Grocery | No | Yes, via the Uber Eats app |
How to Find Local SNAP Retailers
To find retailers near you, the USDA offers a helpful resource. Visit the official USDA SNAP retailer locator to search by your address or ZIP code and see which nearby stores and markets accept EBT. This is the most reliable method for finding participating locations in your area.
Conclusion
While Whole Foods does accept EBT, many alternatives provide diverse and budget-friendly shopping experiences. From the convenience of online delivery with Amazon, Walmart, and Instacart to the local flavor and fresh produce of farmers markets and co-ops, SNAP recipients have more choices than ever. By exploring these options, you can find the best fit for your needs and budget, ensuring access to quality food for your household.
- Authoritative link: Find Local Retailers Participating in SNAP
