SNAP & Meal Kits: Are There Any Meal Kits That Accept EBT?
Surely you’ve seen the ads: beautifully packaged meal kits, fresh ingredients, easy recipes, and dinner on the table in under 30 minutes. Meal kits seem like the perfect solution to time and grocery constraints. But for millions of SNAP recipients, the question isn’t just what’s for dinner – it’s, can I even use my EBT card to pay for this?
In recent years, as meal kits have grown in popularity, SNAP recipients have started asking: Are there any meal kits that accept EBT?
1. Are There Any Meal Kits That Accept EBT?
Meal kits are pre-packaged boxes that include the ingredients and instructions needed to cook a specific meal at home. Meal kit companies often operate through a subscription model, offering services such as delivery and meal preparation.
In fact, well-known meal kit companies, such as HelloFresh, Blue Apron, and Home Chef, generally do not accept EBT as a form of payment, at least not directly through their websites.
Because their services are generally subscription-based, their payment processor does not support EBT payments. They require payment by credit or debit card and do not participate in the USDA’s EBT pilot program. While some companies may offer their own discount programs for low-income people, these are not connected to SNAP.
But that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. There are several EBT-eligible meal kit solutions:
USDA SNAP Express
It’s a free service specifically for EBT users. SNAP Express lets you browse nutritionist-approved recipes and meal kits online.
Once you choose a meal, all the ingredients are automatically added to your shopping cart at participating grocery retailers such as Amazon Fresh, Whole Foods Market, or Instacart. You can then complete your purchase using your EBT card and select either delivery or curbside pickup, depending on your location.
Nonprofit Organizations
These organizations, like Top Box Foods, deliver affordable, healthy meal kits and grocery boxes straight to your home, all of which are eligible for EBT payment. You can find similar nonprofit programs in your location, often coordinated through churches, schools, or local food initiatives.
Grocery Delivery Services That Accept EBT
If you prefer to build your own meal kits or shop for ingredients in bundles, several major grocery delivery services now accept EBT (Walmart, Amazon, etc.)
Besides, instead of purchasing fresh meal kits, you can find EBT-eligible meal solutions sold through platforms like Amazon, Walmart, or local grocery stores. These often come as shelf-stable or refrigerated kits, pre-portioned packages that include everything you need to cook a complete meal at home.
Examples, pasta kits with sauce and seasoning, or rice bowls with spice blends. Very simple and convenient.
>>> Also read: 15+ Surprising Things You Can Buy with EBT on Amazon
2. Which Grocery Delivery Services Accept EBT?
Some people assume that government assistance can’t keep up with modern conveniences like app-based delivery. Fortunately, a growing number of grocery delivery services now accept EBT, making it easier than ever to shop for food from home.
Instacart
Instacart allows SNAP recipients in all 50 states and Washington, D.C., to buy groceries online from participating retailers. With stores like ALDI, Costco, Kroger, and Publix on the list, users can shop from trusted chains and pay for eligible items directly with their EBT card. And because SNAP only covers food, not service fees or delivery tips, a secondary debit or credit card is required for those extra costs.
Walmart
Walmart accepts EBT cards at all participating locations. This includes both physical store locations and online orders placed for pickup, delivery, or shipping, depending on availability in your area.
>>> Read more: Surprising Things You Can Buy with EBT at Walmart
Amazon
Amazon is one of the largest online retailers accepting EBT for grocery delivery. Customers with a valid EBT card can use their SNAP benefits nationwide on Amazon.com, Amazon Fresh, and Whole Foods Market (in select regions). On Amazon, SNAP shoppers can purchase pantry staples, fresh produce, meats, dairy, shelf-stable meal kits, and more. Just look for the “SNAP EBT eligible” label to identify qualified items.
Thrive Market
Thrive Market is a membership-based online grocery store that specializes in organic, non-GMO, and sustainable products. Thrive Market accepts EBT cards for eligible grocery purchases nationwide.
FreshDirect
FreshDirect is an online grocery delivery service known for offering high-quality fresh produce, pantry staples, and household essentials. FreshDirect is an approved participant in the SNAP Online Purchasing Pilot, and it accepts EBT SNAP benefits issued by New York State. Eligible customers can use their EBT card to pay for eligible food items directly on FreshDirect’s website.
3. Get More Support: You May Also Qualify for a Free Phone or Tablet
Lifeline is a federal assistance program that offers free or discounted internet or phone service, and in many cases, you can get a free phone or tablet from providers.
In fact, approximately 6.15% of users were verified for Lifeline eligibility through SNAP, either via an automatic connection or by submitting SNAP documentation. If you’re on SNAP, why not apply for Lifeline to free monthly internet service and free phones?
How to get a free phone or tablet through Lifeline with AirTalk Wireless:
Step 1: Visit the AirTalk Wireless website. Enter your ZIP code.
Step 2: Depending on your state, choose a Lifeline plan.
Step 3: Pick your favorite device. You may see popular options like iPhone 8, Samsung A42 5G, iPad Air, and Samsung Galaxy Tab E, offered at little to no cost. Inventory changes frequently.
Step 4: Upload eligibility documents (if needed). Follow instructions carefully to avoid delays.
Step 5: Submit and wait.
>>> Read more: Free Laptop With EBT Texas: Is It Possible To Claim One?
FAQs
Does EveryPlate accept EBT?
Currently, there is no official information showing that EveryPlate accepts EBT cards or SNAP benefits.
Does HelloFresh accept EBT cards?
HelloFresh does not accept EBT as a payment method.
Does Home Chef accept EBT?
No, Home Chef does not accept EBT or SNAP benefits. Currently, Home Chef only accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, Apple Pay, and PayPal as valid payment methods for meal kit orders.
Does Thrive accept EBT?
Thrive Market accepts SNAP EBT cards for eligible grocery purchases.
Where can I order food online with EBT?
Amazon, Walmart, and many others allow SNAP recipients to purchase eligible groceries online.
Can you order Amazon Fresh with EBT?
Customers with a valid EBT card can use their SNAP benefits nationwide on Amazon.com, Amazon Fresh, and Whole Foods Market (in select regions).
Conclusion
Depending on your location and eligibility, it’s not too hard to find a food service that accepts EBT. With the right information, you’re better equipped to explore your options. Once you find a solution that fits your needs, the path to healthier, more convenient meals becomes much clearer.
