Shopping online can be super convenient, especially when you need groceries. Luckily, Walmart makes it possible to use your SNAP benefits (that’s Food Stamps!) to order groceries online. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about using your EBT card on Walmart’s website, from setting up your account to making sure your order goes through smoothly.
Eligibility and Account Setup
So, you might be wondering, “Can I even use my EBT card on Walmart’s website?” Yes, you can use your SNAP benefits to purchase eligible food items online at Walmart. However, there are a few things you need to do first. You’ll need to make sure your state participates in the online EBT program. Most states do, but it’s always a good idea to double-check with your local EBT office or Walmart’s website.
Next, you’ll need to create a Walmart.com account. If you already have an account, that’s great! If not, signing up is easy. During the account creation process, you’ll need to provide information like your name, email address, and create a password. Make sure to use an email address you check regularly so you can get order updates and important information about your account.
Once you’ve created your account, the next step is to add your EBT card as a payment method. This is where things get a little more specific. You’ll need to navigate to your account settings, find the payment options section, and then add your EBT card details. Make sure to enter all the information correctly, just like you would with a credit or debit card.
Keep in mind that you can’t use your EBT card to pay for everything at Walmart online. Here’s a quick rundown of what’s usually allowed:
- Groceries (fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, etc.)
- Breads and cereals
- Snacks and non-alcoholic beverages
Adding Your EBT Card
Okay, so you have your Walmart account, and you’re ready to add that EBT card. This step is pretty straightforward, but it’s crucial to get it right! The good news is, the process is similar to adding any other type of payment method to your online account. It’s like adding a credit card.
First, you need to log into your Walmart.com account. Once you’re logged in, go to your account settings. This is typically found by clicking on your name or profile picture in the top right corner of the page. In the account settings menu, look for a section called “Payment Methods” or something similar. It’s usually pretty easy to spot.
Within the payment methods section, you should see an option to add a new payment method. Click on this option and you should see options for credit cards, debit cards, and sometimes, EBT cards. Select the “EBT card” option or a similar option. You will then be prompted to enter your EBT card number, expiration date, and the name associated with the card. Double-check all the details before you click save.
Sometimes, the system might ask for your EBT card’s PIN number during this setup process. If it does, enter the PIN securely. Remember, never share your PIN with anyone. Once you’ve entered all the required information, save the changes. You may be asked to verify the card, which might involve a small authorization amount that will later be removed from your card. Be sure to check your payment methods to confirm the EBT card has been added successfully.
Making Your First EBT-Eligible Purchase
Now that your EBT card is linked to your account, let’s talk about actually buying groceries! This part is fun because it involves choosing all the yummy stuff you want. The first thing you’ll do is browse Walmart.com and add eligible items to your cart. Remember, only certain food items qualify for EBT purchase, so make sure you’re picking the right stuff.
When you’re ready to check out, go to your cart. Review your order to make sure everything is correct. You should see an option to select a delivery or pickup time. Choose the option that works best for you. Walmart offers options like delivery to your home or, if available, you can pick up your order at a Walmart store. During checkout, you’ll choose the payment method.
At the payment stage, select your EBT card. If you have other items in your cart that aren’t EBT-eligible, you’ll need to use a different payment method for those. Walmart’s system will usually split the payment automatically, using your EBT for the food items and another payment method for the ineligible items. Here’s a quick example:
- Add groceries (EBT-eligible)
- Add non-food items (not EBT-eligible)
- Choose your EBT card for food, another card for non-food
After you’ve chosen your payment methods, review the order summary one last time. Make sure all the details are correct, then submit your order. You’ll receive a confirmation email with details about your order and when it will be ready for pickup or delivery.
Understanding EBT Restrictions
It’s important to know what you *can’t* buy with your EBT card online. There are certain restrictions on the types of items that SNAP benefits can be used for. These restrictions are pretty standard, no matter where you shop with EBT, online or in person. Understanding these rules can save you a lot of hassle during checkout.
Generally, you can’t use your EBT card to purchase non-food items, such as:
- Household supplies (cleaning products, paper towels, etc.)
- Personal care items (shampoo, soap, etc.)
- Alcohol and tobacco
- Pet food
- Vitamins and supplements
Also, you might not be able to pay for shipping costs with your EBT card. That is something you will need to pay for with another card. Make sure you have another payment option in place when you check out. Sometimes, Walmart offers free shipping for orders over a certain amount, but that can change. The exact rules vary from state to state and from store to store, so always double-check the details.
Sometimes, the items offered for sale will have different prices depending on your delivery area. Here’s a small table for reference:
| Item | Price in Store | Price for Delivery |
|---|---|---|
| Milk | $3.50 | $3.75 |
| Eggs | $2.00 | $2.25 |
Dealing with Order Issues and Returns
Even though shopping online is convenient, sometimes things can go wrong. Your order might be missing items, or you might receive a damaged product. If something isn’t right with your order, it’s essential to know how to handle these issues. Walmart has a process in place to help you resolve any problems you might encounter.
First, check your order confirmation and delivery details. Make sure you received everything you ordered and that the items are in good condition. If something is missing or damaged, contact Walmart’s customer service. You can usually find the customer service information on their website or in your order confirmation email.
You might need to provide proof of the issue, such as photos of the damaged items or a description of what was missing. Walmart’s customer service representatives will help you with the issue. In some cases, you might be able to get a refund or a replacement for the affected items. You can usually return food items if they are damaged or expired. However, you might need to return the items to a Walmart store for a refund.
For returns of items you purchased with your EBT card, refunds will typically be issued back to your EBT card, if possible. If that’s not possible, the refund might be issued as a Walmart gift card. It’s a good idea to keep all your order information and receipts to make the returns process smoother.
Tips and Tricks for Smooth Shopping
Want to make the most of your Walmart online shopping experience? Here are some tips and tricks to help you out. It’s all about making it easy!
First, always double-check your cart before you checkout. Make sure you’ve only added items that are EBT-eligible. You can avoid any surprises at checkout by carefully reviewing your order beforehand. Check the prices and quantities, too. This will help you avoid any issues with your EBT card being declined at checkout.
Secondly, take advantage of Walmart’s pickup or delivery options. If you choose pickup, you can save time by ordering online and picking up your groceries at a time that works for you. For delivery, plan in advance and schedule your delivery for a time when you know you’ll be home to receive it. You can often change your delivery or pickup time later if something comes up.
Finally, keep an eye out for sales and special deals. Walmart often offers discounts and promotions on various products. You can find these deals on the Walmart website and the app. Check out the weekly ad and look for items that are on sale. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Sign up for Walmart+ for free delivery.
- Check weekly ads for specials.
- Review all discounts and promotions to save money.
Following these tips will help you save time and money while using your EBT card online at Walmart. With a little preparation, you can get your groceries delivered to your door without any hassle!
Conclusion
Using your EBT card to shop for groceries on Walmart’s website is a convenient and accessible way to manage your food budget. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily add your EBT card, choose eligible items, and place your order. Remember to be aware of the restrictions and understand the process for dealing with any issues that may arise. With a little practice, you’ll be a pro at ordering groceries online with your Food Stamps!