Buying groceries online is super convenient, and Walmart makes it easy! If you get food stamps, also known as SNAP benefits, you can use them to pay for your groceries on Walmart’s website or app. This essay will walk you through everything you need to know about how to use your EBT card (that’s the card you get for food stamps) to shop online at Walmart. We’ll cover important details like what you can buy, how to add your EBT card, and things to keep in mind while shopping.
What Can I Buy With Food Stamps at Walmart Online?
Knowing what you can and can’t buy is the first step. The rules for using your EBT card online are the same as they are in the store. Generally, you can purchase “eligible” food items. This means things like fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, poultry, fish, dairy products, bread, cereals, and snacks. Think of the core food groups! You’ll find a huge selection of these items on Walmart.com or in the app.
Here’s a list of things that you CAN buy with your food stamps at Walmart:
- Fruits and Vegetables (fresh, frozen, canned)
- Meat, Poultry, and Fish
- Dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt)
- Breads and Cereals
- Snack foods (chips, crackers, cookies)
- Non-alcoholic beverages (soda, juice, tea)
Remember, the items you want to purchase must meet the requirements. You need to choose the correct items so you can proceed with the transaction. It’s always a good idea to double-check the item’s label to make sure it qualifies. Just a quick check could save you a headache later!
It is very important to understand that certain items are off-limits. For instance, alcohol, tobacco, and pet food are not approved for EBT purchases. Neither are household supplies or items you’d buy in the pharmacy. Carefully review your cart before completing your order.
Adding Your EBT Card to Your Walmart Account
Before you can start shopping, you’ll need to add your EBT card to your Walmart account. This is a pretty straightforward process. The website and app have easy-to-follow instructions.
Here’s how you typically add your EBT card, step-by-step:
- Sign in to your Walmart account on the website or in the app.
- Go to your account settings or payment options.
- Look for an option to add a payment method or add a new card.
- You’ll be prompted to enter your EBT card number, expiration date, and possibly the cardholder’s name.
- Enter your card information accurately, and save the changes.
Make sure to double-check that you entered all the information correctly. Errors can prevent your payment from being processed. Once you’ve added your EBT card, it will be saved in your account for future purchases. You can also edit or remove the card at any time. Be sure to have your EBT card handy to easily add the required information.
Once your EBT card is added, Walmart will usually ask you to verify your card by charging a small amount (like $0.01) to ensure it’s active. This charge will then be reversed. This is a standard security measure.
Making Your Walmart Online Order
Once your EBT card is set up, it’s time to shop! Browse through the Walmart website or app and add the food items you want to buy to your cart. When you’re ready to checkout, you’ll have the option to choose your payment method. You’ll select your EBT card. You can use your EBT card to pay for the “eligible” food items, and you will use a different payment method for non-eligible items and any shipping fees or other associated costs.
During checkout, you’ll likely see a breakdown of your order, showing which items are covered by your EBT card and which aren’t. Make sure you understand which method you will use. If you are using both forms of payment, verify that all items are assigned to the correct form of payment before submitting your order.
Here’s an example of how a split payment might work:
| Item | Price | Payment Method |
|---|---|---|
| Apples | $5.00 | EBT |
| Chicken | $10.00 | EBT |
| Dish Soap | $3.00 | Credit Card |
| Shipping Fee | $7.00 | Credit Card |
| Total | $25.00 |
As you can see in the example table, the items that are eligible for EBT are paid with the EBT card, while the dish soap and shipping fees are paid using a separate credit card.
Choosing Delivery or Pickup Options
Walmart offers convenient options for getting your groceries: delivery or pickup. Both options allow you to shop online using your EBT card. Choosing between the two depends on what works best for you.
If you select delivery, your groceries will be brought to your doorstep. Walmart typically has delivery fees. You’ll pay these fees using a payment method other than your EBT card. Check the website or app for current delivery fees and any minimum order requirements. You’ll also need to make sure someone is available to accept the delivery when it arrives.
If you choose pickup, you’ll go to a designated Walmart location to collect your order. You can select a time slot that works for you. The service is usually free, or very low cost. You will be able to pull up to the designated pickup area. An associate will bring your groceries to your car. You’ll need to check in when you arrive. This can be done via the Walmart app, or with the on-site staff.
Whether you pick delivery or pickup, the process for paying with your EBT card is the same. Remember, any fees associated with delivery or other items that are not approved for purchase with food stamps will need to be paid with a different payment method.
Dealing With Order Adjustments and Returns
Sometimes, things happen with your online order. Items might be out of stock, or you might need to make a return. Knowing how Walmart handles these situations is important.
If an item is out of stock, Walmart will typically remove it from your order and adjust the total cost. You will only be charged for the items that are actually shipped to you or available for pickup. Sometimes, Walmart will offer a substitute item. They will only do this if you have enabled substitutions in your account.
If you need to return an item, the process is generally the same as returning items purchased in-store. You’ll need to have your order information or receipt. Refunds for items purchased with your EBT card will usually be credited back to your EBT card. However, if you paid with both your EBT card and another method, the refund will likely be split between the payment methods proportionally.
Here is a brief outline on how refunds are handled:
- EBT Purchases Only: Refund goes back onto your EBT card.
- Mixed Payments: Refund is split proportionally between EBT and other payment methods.
- Return Procedure: Follow Walmart’s standard return guidelines.
- Receipt/Order Info: Keep your receipts or order information for returns.
Always keep track of your orders and any adjustments made. If you have any issues, contact Walmart customer service for help.
Potential Problems and Solutions
While using your EBT card at Walmart online is usually smooth, you might run into a few snags. Here are some common issues and how to resolve them. The most common reason for rejection is the incorrect entry of the card number, expiration date, or the cardholder’s name.
If your EBT card is declined, make sure you have enough funds on your card. Check your balance on the EBT website, app, or by calling the number on the back of your card. Also, double-check that you entered your card information correctly. Sometimes, a simple typo can cause a problem.
Another potential issue is not being able to split the payment between your EBT card and another payment method. If this happens, contact Walmart customer service for assistance. They can help you adjust your order and make sure you pay with the correct method. It is useful to understand which items are approved for purchase, and which items are not, as this can prevent issues at checkout.
Here are some potential issues and how to troubleshoot them:
- Card Declined: Check your EBT balance and verify card details.
- Payment Split Issues: Contact Walmart customer service.
- Eligible Item Blocked: Review item eligibility guidelines.
- Order Cancellation: Contact customer service to understand the reason.
If you can not solve your issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to Walmart’s customer service. They’re trained to help you with any problems. By being prepared and following these steps, you can easily and confidently use your food stamps to shop online at Walmart.
Conclusion
Using your EBT card to pay at Walmart online is a convenient and easy way to get the groceries you need. By understanding what you can buy, how to add your EBT card, and how to navigate the delivery or pickup options, you can shop online with confidence. Remember to check your card balance, choose eligible items, and keep track of your orders. If you run into any problems, Walmart customer service is there to help. Happy shopping!