Buying groceries and other essentials online has become super popular, and the Walmart app is a go-to for many people. If you’re someone who uses EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) for food purchases, you might be wondering, “Can you use EBT on the Walmart app?” This essay will break down everything you need to know about using your EBT benefits when shopping with Walmart online, including the app and website, so you can shop with confidence.
How to Pay with EBT on the Walmart App: The Basics
Yes, you can absolutely use your EBT card to pay for eligible items when shopping on the Walmart app or website. This is great news for people who rely on SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits to feed themselves and their families. Walmart has made it relatively easy to shop online using your EBT card, providing convenience alongside the affordability that they offer.
What Items Can I Buy With EBT?
Figuring out what you can purchase with your EBT card is essential. Think of it like this: if it’s food, you can probably buy it! Generally, SNAP benefits cover most food items, but there are some restrictions. The Walmart app and website work the same way as in-store purchases regarding eligible items. You won’t be able to use your EBT card to buy things like alcohol, tobacco products, pet food, or household supplies that aren’t food-related.
Here’s a quick look at what’s generally *allowed* and *not allowed*:
- Allowed:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Dairy products
- Grains and cereals
- Seeds and plants to grow food
There are exceptions, so always double-check if you’re unsure. Things get a little tricky when it comes to prepared foods.
- Not Allowed:
- Alcoholic beverages
- Tobacco products
- Vitamins and supplements
- Non-food items like paper products and pet food
For example, if you are buying a rotisserie chicken, the app may require you to pay with a different payment method. Remember this, because it can change depending on your local laws.
Setting Up Your EBT Card for Online Shopping
Before you can start using your EBT card on the Walmart app, you’ll need to add it to your account. This process is pretty straightforward, similar to adding a credit or debit card. First, make sure you have a Walmart account set up. If you don’t, you’ll need to create one; it is free. Once you are logged in, go to the payment method section.
Then, select the option to add a new payment method. You will be asked to enter your EBT card information, including your card number, expiration date, and the cardholder’s name. You may also be asked to enter your address that’s associated with your EBT card. Once you’ve entered the information, save it. Walmart will save your EBT card as a valid payment method for your account.
Here’s a simplified step-by-step guide:
- Log in to your Walmart account (or create one).
- Go to “Account” and then “Payment methods”.
- Add a new payment method.
- Select “EBT card” as your payment type.
- Enter your card details and save.
It is important to remember to have your EBT card information ready when you want to add it to your account.
How to Place an Order Using EBT
Once your EBT card is saved, placing an order with it is a breeze. Just shop for the items you need and add them to your cart. When you’re ready to check out, go to the checkout page. You’ll be given options for selecting your payment method. Choose your EBT card, and the app should automatically apply your SNAP benefits to the eligible items in your cart.
Remember that you can only use your EBT card for eligible food items. If you have non-food items in your cart, you will need to use a different payment method for those items. This might be a credit or debit card. The Walmart app will often split your order automatically to make sure the payment goes through. If not, you may have to pay in separate transactions.
Here is an example of how your order may be split:
| Item | Payment Method |
|---|---|
| Apples, Bread, Milk | EBT |
| Laundry Detergent, Dog Food | Credit Card |
If you have problems during the checkout process, double-check that your EBT card has enough funds. Make sure the card information is correct. You can contact Walmart customer service for help.
Dealing with Delivery Fees and Other Charges
Walmart offers different options, including pickup and delivery. Be aware that your EBT benefits generally don’t cover fees like delivery fees. This means you’ll need to pay any delivery charges with a separate payment method, such as a credit or debit card. The same is true for any applicable taxes or other non-food related items in your order.
When you are placing your order, the app will clearly show you what amount will be charged to your EBT card and what will be charged to the other payment method. This split-payment system makes it easier to keep track of your spending and ensure that your EBT benefits are used correctly.
- Browse items, then add them to your cart.
- Choose between delivery or pickup.
- Use EBT for eligible items.
- Pay any delivery fees with another card.
Remember this so you’re not surprised when you get to checkout. Make sure you account for these fees in your budget to avoid any unexpected costs.
Troubleshooting Common Issues with EBT on the Walmart App
Sometimes, things don’t go perfectly smoothly. There are a few common issues that users experience when using EBT on the Walmart app. For example, you might encounter an error message during checkout, the app could reject your payment, or you might be unsure which items are eligible.
If you get an error message, double-check your card information, confirm that you have sufficient funds on your EBT card, and ensure that you are only purchasing eligible items. You can contact Walmart customer support for help by calling their customer service number or using the online chat feature. Providing clear details about the error you are facing will help them resolve the problem quicker.
Here is a list of problems:
- The app rejecting payments.
- Unsure about eligible items.
- Error messages during checkout.
It helps to have some troubleshooting steps. For example, when dealing with payment issues:
- Verify your EBT card balance.
- Double-check card information.
- Contact customer service.
Conclusion
Using your EBT card on the Walmart app and website is a convenient way to buy food and other eligible items. By understanding the rules, setting up your payment, and knowing what to expect, you can shop online with ease. Remember to separate your food and non-food items and have a backup payment method ready for fees and ineligible purchases. Shopping with EBT on the Walmart app can be a smart and practical way to manage your budget and get the groceries you need.