Shopping for groceries can be a real hassle, right? Especially when you’re trying to stick to a budget. Luckily, we have things like the Walmart app to help us out! If you’re using food assistance programs like EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer), you might be wondering if you can use the Walmart app to make your purchases. This is a super common question, and the answer is important for many families. Let’s break down everything you need to know about using EBT on the Walmart app.
Yes, You Can Use EBT on the Walmart App!
So, the burning question: Can you use EBT on the Walmart app? Yes, you absolutely can use your EBT card to pay for eligible food items when you shop on the Walmart app. This is a huge convenience for many people because it allows you to shop from the comfort of your home, and have your groceries delivered or ready for pick-up!
Setting Up Your EBT Card on the App
Getting your EBT card set up on the Walmart app is pretty straightforward. Before you begin, make sure you have your EBT card and PIN number ready. You’ll also need to have a Walmart account. If you don’t have one, you can create one easily. This is where you’ll store your payment information.
Once you’re logged in, go to the “Account” section of the app. There, you’ll find an option for “Payment Methods” or something similar. This is where you’ll add your EBT card information. It’s important to be as accurate as possible, as any mistakes can delay or prevent your purchase.
When adding your EBT card, you’ll typically enter your card number, the expiration date, and the name associated with the card. You may also be prompted to enter your card’s billing address. After this, you’ll usually be prompted to set a PIN. Note that, when using EBT for in-app purchases, you might not need to enter your PIN until you go to finalize your order, either when you select “Pick Up” or “Delivery”.
Here’s a quick checklist to help you get started:
- Have your EBT card and PIN ready.
- Create a Walmart account (if you don’t have one).
- Navigate to “Payment Methods” in your account settings.
- Add your EBT card details accurately.
What Items Can You Buy with EBT?
Not everything in Walmart is eligible to be purchased with EBT. The government, through programs like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), determines what you can buy. Usually, you can use your EBT card to purchase groceries and some other food products. Keep in mind, different states may have different requirements, so it’s always a good idea to double check.
Generally, EBT cards cover items like fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, and baked goods. Prepared foods, like a hot rotisserie chicken, may be eligible. Candy, soda, and other junk foods are often also allowed, even though they aren’t the healthiest choices, since they are food. It’s worth understanding that the exact rules can vary depending on your local regulations.
Here is a short overview of some of the major EBT categories you may be able to purchase:
- Fruits and Vegetables
- Meats, Poultry, and Fish
- Dairy Products
- Breads and Cereals
- Snack Foods and non-alcoholic beverages
Items that are generally NOT covered by EBT are non-food items like paper towels, toilet paper, diapers, pet food, or alcohol. Always double-check the restrictions if you’re unsure. Remember, if you have any questions about a specific item, it’s best to ask a Walmart employee for clarification.
Using EBT for Pickup and Delivery
One of the coolest things about using EBT on the Walmart app is the convenience of either picking up your order or having it delivered to your door. Once you’ve added your EBT card and selected your groceries, you can choose your preferred method of receiving your order.
For pickup, you select a time slot and go to the store. Walmart has dedicated parking spots for online order pickups. You’ll usually get a notification when your order is ready, and then you just head to the designated area. The app will provide instructions on how to check in and tell them you are ready to pick up your order. When you get to the store, you will need your EBT card and your PIN ready for payment.
For delivery, Walmart will bring your groceries right to your doorstep, usually within a few hours or at a scheduled time. The delivery fee may not be covered by EBT, so that portion of your bill may need to be paid using a different method. This is also true of any taxes. You can verify whether your order will be covered completely by EBT before placing the order.
Here’s a quick summary of the differences:
| Feature | Pickup | Delivery |
|---|---|---|
| Convenience | You go to the store. | Groceries come to you. |
| Cost | No delivery fee, usually | Delivery fee may apply. |
| PIN Required | Yes, when you pick up. | Yes, when you pick up. |
Splitting Payments with EBT
Sometimes, you might want to buy items that are not eligible for EBT, or your EBT balance might not cover the entire cost of your purchase. The Walmart app allows you to split your payment between your EBT card and another payment method, such as a debit card or credit card. This means you can use your EBT for the eligible food items and pay for other non-eligible items separately.
When you’re at the checkout, the app should give you the option to split your payment. You’ll typically choose your EBT card as the first payment method. The app will then ask you how much of your total you want to pay with your EBT balance. The remaining balance is then paid through another payment method.
Be sure to check that your EBT balance is sufficient to cover the eligible items before you start the checkout process. This can save you time and potential frustration. After all, it’s not much fun to go through the checkout only to find out you can’t pay!.
Here are some important things to keep in mind:
- Check your EBT balance before shopping.
- Choose “Split Payment” at checkout.
- Use your EBT for eligible items first.
- Pay the remaining balance with another payment method.
Troubleshooting EBT Issues on the App
Even though the Walmart app is pretty user-friendly, you might run into some issues when using your EBT card. Don’t worry; there are ways to troubleshoot the most common problems! The first thing to check is whether your EBT card is valid and has enough funds for your purchase.
If you’re encountering an error message, double-check that you entered your EBT card information correctly, including the card number, expiration date, and address. It is easy to make a mistake when entering information. Incorrect information is the number one reason people have issues with their EBT cards.
Another common issue is an expired card. Your EBT card will expire at a certain date, so make sure your card is current. If you suspect an issue with your card, contact your state’s EBT customer service. They can help you determine the cause and offer solutions. It’s also always a good idea to make sure the Walmart app is up-to-date! Sometimes, older versions of the app might have bugs or other issues that can prevent your EBT card from working correctly.
- Check your EBT card balance and validity.
- Verify the card details entered are accurate.
- Contact EBT customer service if you still have issues.
- Make sure your Walmart app is the most recent version.
Tips for Maximizing Your EBT Shopping
To make the most of your EBT shopping experience on the Walmart app, keep these tips in mind. First, plan your meals in advance. Having a meal plan will help you create a shopping list and ensure you buy only the things you need. This can help you avoid impulsive purchases and stick to your budget.
Take advantage of Walmart’s sales and promotions. Keep an eye out for special deals and discounts on eligible food items. Some items might be significantly cheaper than others. This can extend your budget.
Another great strategy is to compare prices. You can easily compare prices between different products on the app before adding items to your cart. Look at the unit prices (e.g., price per ounce) to determine the best value for your money. This helps you maximize the use of your benefits.
Here are some things you can consider doing when shopping with your EBT card to maximize your shopping experience:
| Strategy | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Plan your meals | Helps you create a shopping list and ensures you stick to your budget. |
| Take advantage of sales and promotions | Save money on eligible food items. |
| Compare prices | Find the best value for your money. |
Finally, always check your EBT balance before shopping to avoid any surprises at checkout. These tips will help you make smart shopping choices and get the most out of your EBT benefits on the Walmart app!
Conclusion
In conclusion, yes, you can definitely use EBT on the Walmart app! It’s a convenient way to shop for groceries, allowing you to have your food delivered or ready for pickup. Remember to set up your EBT card correctly, know what items are eligible, and be aware of how to split payments if necessary. By following these tips, you can make your EBT shopping experience on the Walmart app smooth and efficient. Happy shopping!