What apps can you put in your EBT to order food online?

According to the USDA, millions of Americans use SNAP benefits for essential groceries, and the online purchasing pilot has made this process more accessible. This has many asking what apps can you put in your EBT to order food online to take advantage of this modern convenience.

Quick Summary

Major apps from retailers like Walmart, Amazon, and Instacart allow users to add their EBT cards to order food online. This includes options for pickup and delivery of SNAP-eligible items from participating stores.

Key Points

• Leading Apps: Major apps that accept EBT for online food include Walmart, Amazon, Instacart, Uber Eats, and Gopuff.

• Eligibility: EBT SNAP benefits can only be used for eligible food items, and cannot be used for delivery fees, tips, or service charges.

• Payment Method: All online orders using EBT require a secondary credit or debit card to cover non-eligible purchases and associated fees.

• How-To: To use EBT, add your card in the app's account settings and select it at checkout for eligible items. You will enter your PIN to authorize the payment.

• Special Perks: Some retailers offer discounted membership programs for EBT cardholders, such as Prime Access on Amazon and Instacart+, to reduce costs.

• Options: Depending on the app and retailer, you can choose between grocery delivery and free curbside pickup for your EBT orders.

• Security: Ensure your EBT PIN is kept confidential, and consider changing it regularly to protect your benefits.

Major Apps Accepting EBT for Online Food Orders

Many leading retailers have integrated EBT payment options into their apps, making it possible for recipients of SNAP benefits to shop for groceries online. Each app has a slightly different process and may partner with various stores in your area.

Walmart

The Walmart app allows EBT cardholders to pay for online grocery orders in most states. This includes both curbside pickup and delivery, though delivery fees cannot be covered by EBT SNAP benefits. To use the app, simply log in to your account, add your EBT card details under 'Payment Methods,' and start shopping for eligible groceries. During checkout, you can select your EBT card to cover the cost of qualifying items. Any remaining balance for non-eligible items, fees, or tips must be paid with a separate credit or debit card. Walmart also offers a discounted Walmart+ Assist membership for eligible households, which can lower or waive delivery fees.

Amazon

Amazon accepts EBT payments on two primary platforms: Amazon.com groceries and Amazon Fresh. On Amazon.com, you can find a wide selection of shelf-stable pantry items and other eligible products. Amazon Fresh, which is available in select areas, offers fresh produce, dairy, meat, and more. To use EBT with Amazon, you must register your card on the Amazon website or app. Eligible items will be marked 'SNAP EBT Eligible.' EBT recipients can also access a discounted Amazon Prime membership, which includes free delivery on eligible orders and other benefits.

Instacart

As a popular grocery delivery and pickup service, Instacart partners with numerous retailers nationwide to accept EBT payments for online orders. The availability depends on your location and the participation of local stores, which are clearly marked with an 'EBT' label in the app. You can add your EBT card in the app's 'Account Settings.' Similar to other services, delivery and service fees cannot be paid with your EBT funds, so a secondary payment method is required. Instacart also provides EBT cardholders with special discounts on its Instacart+ membership.

Uber Eats

Uber Eats has expanded beyond restaurant delivery to include online grocery ordering with EBT payment options. This service partners with grocery stores like Albertsons and ALDI, allowing you to shop for SNAP-eligible groceries and have them delivered. You can add your EBT card in the 'Wallet' section of the Uber Eats app. Like other platforms, delivery fees and tips must be covered by another payment method.

Gopuff

Gopuff offers rapid delivery of convenience items, groceries, and other essentials, and it accepts SNAP EBT in qualifying markets. The service focuses on speed, with delivery often happening in as fast as 15 minutes. This can be a great option for immediate needs. To use EBT on Gopuff, add your card via the app or website and select it at checkout for eligible items. Non-eligible items will require a separate payment.

How to Use Your EBT Card in Online Apps

Using your EBT card for online food orders is a straightforward process, but it requires a few steps to ensure a smooth transaction. The general procedure is similar across most apps and retailers.

1. Check Local Availability: First, confirm that a specific retailer and its app support EBT online orders in your state and area. You can usually find this information on the app's website or during the initial setup process.
2. Add Your EBT Card: Navigate to your account settings or payment methods section in the app. Select the option to 'Add EBT SNAP card' and input your card number and information. You will also need to add a secondary payment method (credit/debit card) for non-eligible items and fees.
3. Shop for Eligible Items: As you browse, look for products marked 'SNAP EBT Eligible.' Apps make it easy to identify which items qualify, ensuring you stay within the program's rules.
4. Complete the Checkout: At checkout, the app will apply your EBT benefits to the eligible items. You can often specify the exact amount of EBT benefits you wish to use. The secondary card on file will cover the rest of the order, including any service fees, delivery charges, and taxes.
5. Enter Your PIN: You will be prompted to enter your EBT PIN to authorize the transaction, ensuring your account is secure.

EBT-Compatible App Comparison Table

App/Platform	Order Type(s)	EBT Payment for Fees?	Special Perks for EBT Users?	Available Stores/Items	Notes
Walmart	Pickup & Delivery	No	Discounted Walmart+ Assist membership	Groceries, eligible food items	Separate payment needed for delivery fees and non-eligible items.
Amazon	Delivery (Fresh & Pantry)	No	Discounted Prime membership	Groceries marked 'SNAP EBT Eligible'	Covers Amazon.com groceries and Amazon Fresh.
Instacart	Pickup & Delivery	No	Discounted Instacart+ membership	Participating local retailers	Must link EBT and separate credit/debit card for fees.
Uber Eats	Grocery Delivery	No	Free delivery promos	Participating grocery stores (e.g., ALDI)	Focused on grocery delivery; requires secondary payment for fees.
Gopuff	Rapid Delivery	No	Deals and promotions	Convenience items, groceries, essentials	Limited to qualifying markets and requires separate payment for fees.

Important Considerations for EBT Online Orders

While using EBT with apps is highly convenient, there are key factors to remember to avoid issues with your orders. Always be aware that your EBT SNAP benefits cover only the food items and cannot be used for associated costs. These costs can include service fees, delivery fees, or driver tips. You will always need a separate credit or debit card on file with the service to handle these additional charges.

EBT-Eligible vs. Non-Eligible Items

Apps clearly mark which items are covered by EBT SNAP benefits, which primarily include fresh foods, pantry staples, and non-alcoholic beverages. Non-eligible items, such as hot, prepared foods, cleaning supplies, and alcohol, must be paid for with your secondary payment method. It is important to pay attention during the shopping process to avoid any surprises at checkout.

Securing Your Information

When adding your EBT card to an app, your information is protected through secure, government-approved methods. However, it is a best practice to regularly change your EBT PIN and never share it with anyone, including delivery drivers or store employees. Some state EBT apps also allow you to lock your card for added security when it is not in use.

Conclusion

The ability to use EBT on a variety of popular apps has significantly improved access to groceries for millions of Americans, providing a flexible and convenient way to shop. Whether through major retailers like Walmart and Amazon or delivery services like Instacart and Uber Eats, the options are growing. By understanding which apps accept EBT, knowing how to add your card, and being mindful of the rules regarding fees and eligible items, you can effectively manage your benefits for online food ordering. For the most authoritative information on the SNAP Online Purchasing Pilot, visit the USDA's Food and Nutrition Service website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my EBT card for prepared meals from restaurants on apps like DoorDash or Uber Eats?

No, EBT benefits generally cannot be used for hot, prepared foods from restaurants or fast-food establishments through delivery apps. EBT is intended for groceries and eligible food items.

Do I need a separate card for my online EBT order?

Yes, you will need a separate credit or debit card on file. This card is used to cover costs that EBT cannot, including delivery fees, tips, service fees, and any non-eligible items in your cart.

What should I do if my online order includes both EBT-eligible and non-eligible items?

The app will automatically split the charges at checkout. Your EBT card will cover the cost of eligible food items, while your secondary payment method will be charged for the remaining balance, including non-eligible items and fees.

How do I add my EBT card to a shopping app?

The process is similar across most apps. Navigate to your account or payment settings, find the option to 'Add EBT SNAP card,' and enter your card details as prompted.

Is curbside pickup free for EBT users?

Many retailers, like Walmart, offer free curbside pickup with a minimum order total, which can be an excellent way to avoid delivery fees. However, policies can vary, so it's best to check with the specific retailer.

What kinds of food are eligible for EBT purchases online?

You can use EBT to buy staple foods such as fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, bread, and cereals. In most apps, eligible items are clearly marked.

Can I check my remaining EBT balance within these food ordering apps?

No, you cannot check your EBT balance directly within the food ordering apps themselves. You can check your balance through your state's EBT portal, by calling the number on the back of your card, or by using a third-party app like Propel.

Can I use EBT cash benefits on these apps?

Availability of EBT cash (TANF) for online purchases varies by retailer and state. For example, Instacart currently only accepts SNAP EBT, while Amazon accepts TANF in certain states for a broader range of products.