Millions of SNAP recipients shop at Costco every year, but can you use EBT at Costco? The answer is yes – Costco accepts EBT at all U.S. warehouse locations, making it easier for families to buy groceries in bulk at affordable prices.
This guide explains which items you can buy, what restrictions you must follow, and how to use your EBT card the right way to save more on every Costco trip.
1. Can You Use EBT at Costco?
Yes – the warehouse retailer Costco accepts EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) cards for eligible purchases at their U.S. warehouse locations.
According to Costco, “All our warehouse locations accept EBT cards. Costco adheres to all state laws regarding what can be purchased with EBT cards.”
This means if you hold benefits through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) you can use your EBT card when shopping in-store at Costco, albeit with the standard SNAP rules about eligible food items and excluded non-food items.
What Can I Buy With EBT at Costco?
When shopping at Costco with your EBT card, you can buy items approved under SNAP guidelines. These include fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables, dairy products, meat, poultry, fish, breads, cereals, snack foods, non-alcoholic beverages, and seeds/plants that produce food for the household.
For example, your EBT card can be used for unprepared/raw foods like frozen chicken, frozen vegetables, and bread-so long as they are considered eligible food items.
What Are the Limitations of Using EBT at Costco?
While Costco does accept EBT, there are important limitations to keep in mind. Non-food items such as household supplies, cleaning products, pet food, vitamins and supplements, hot prepared foods, and membership fees are not eligible under the food side of your EBT card.
Additionally, some online ordering channels (such as Costco’s website or delivery services) may not accept EBT for all purchases – or may require splitting payment between EBT and a debit/credit card for non-eligible items.
You must also maintain a current membership with Costco to shop there in-store, and the annual membership fee cannot be paid with food-benefit EBT funds.
>>> Read more: EBT Texas Guide: Essential Tips to Apply, Use & Check Benefits
Can You Use EBT at Self-Checkout at Costco?
Yes – Costco allows EBT cards at self-checkout lanes just like traditional checkout. According to a review of rules, “Yes, you can use your EBT card at Costco self-checkout lanes. The process works the same as regular checkout – just swipe your EBT card and enter your PIN when prompted.”
That said, when using self-checkout you need to ensure that your non-eligible items are paid separately (via another payment method) if you are using your EBT card for the eligible food portion.
2. How to Use an EBT Card at Costco
If you’re wondering ‘Can you use EBT at Costco?’, here’s how to use your EBT card when shopping at Costco:
- Verify your membership: You must have a Costco membership to shop in most warehouse locations.
- Use your EBT card for eligible items: At checkout (regular or self-checkout), identify which items are eligible food purchases under SNAP guidelines. Swiping your EBT card will deduct the amount for eligible food items.
- Separate payment: If you have non-eligible items (household supplies, membership fee, etc), these must be paid with a regular debit/credit card or cash – if you try to mix non-eligible items on the EBT transaction it may be declined.
- Online or delivery channels may require adding your EBT card in the retailer’s app and may require a second payment method for non-eligible charges. For example, Costco’s “Same-Day” service allows adding an EBT card but still requires a debit/credit for non-eligible charges.
- Always check your remaining balance on your EBT card and verify items at checkout to avoid declined transactions or having to re-split the payment.
3. Tips for Shopping Smart With EBT at Costco
Here are some smart strategies to maximize your SNAP benefits at Costco while being aware of rules and bonuses:
- Plan your grocery list in advance: Use your EBT card for core eligible food items (produce, dairy, proteins) and avoid impulse non-eligible purchases.
- Buy in bulk when it makes sense: Costco is known for bulk packs. For non-perishable items or ones you can freeze (like frozen vegetables or meats), buying in bulk can save money long-term – just ensure it fits your storage and budget.
- Split bills properly: When combining EBT-eligible foods and non-eligible items in one cart, keep the purchase organized so you can accurately separate payment methods at checkout.
- Keep membership costs separate: Since the membership fee cannot be paid with the food-benefit portion of your EBT card, plan separately or consider whether the cost is worth it for your household.
- Check for added benefits: Some states and programs may offer promotions tied to SNAP. For example: SNAP recipients may be eligible for free phones or tablets through AirTalk Wireless, which can offer additional value beyond groceries.
- Avoid hot prepared foods: At Costco, the deli, hot food section, and rotisserie chicken items are not eligible for EBT payment. Stick to unprepared foods that you will cook at home.
- Check unit price and value: Some bulk items may appear cheaper but store-size packaging may not always result in long-term savings if you cannot use or store them properly.
Final Thoughts
Using your EBT card at Costco is absolutely possible and can be a smart way to stretch your grocery budget. By planning ahead, focusing on eligible food items, and being strategic about bulk purchases and membership decisions, you can make the most of your benefits. Additionally, keep in mind that your SNAP eligibility may open doors beyond just food – programs offering free phones or tablets are on the radar.
If you’re an EBT cardholder, check your balance, plan your trip, and shop confidently knowing that your benefits are valid at one of the largest wholesale retailers in the country.