Can You Use EBT On Amazon? 4 Essential Questions Most Users Ask
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If you’ve been wondering “can you use EBT on Amazon?”, you’re not alone. With more households relying on SNAP benefits for groceries, Amazon has become one of the most convenient places to shop online using an EBT card. The good news is that Amazon supports SNAP EBT payments for eligible food items in most states, making grocery delivery more accessible and affordable.
This guide explains Amazon’s EBT policy, which states participate, how to add your EBT card, and what you can and can’t buy.
1. Can You Use EBT on Amazon? Current Status & Eligibility
If you’re asking “can you use EBT on Amazon?”, the answer is yes. Amazon has partnered with the U.S. government to allow Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards to be used as a payment method on eligible items.
EBT can be used to buy qualifying food items through Amazon Fresh, Amazon Grocery, and certain products shipped and sold by Amazon.
However, you must live in a participating state to use EBT online, and only SNAP-approved items will be eligible at checkout.
Amazon’s official policy on SNAP/EBT acceptance
Amazon officially accepts SNAP EBT for eligible food items sold through Amazon Fresh and Amazon’s Grocery section.
You cannot use EBT for delivery fees, tips, or non-food items. Amazon’s policy is publicly listed in the USDA’s Online Purchasing Pilot guidelines, which you can review on the USDA SNAP Online Purchasing page.
Amazon also provides detailed instructions and FAQs for EBT users on its own platform, available at the Amazon EBT Help Center.
States where Amazon supports EBT for grocery delivery
While Amazon accepts SNAP EBT nationwide, Cash EBT is accepted in certain states.
Additionally, Amazon Fresh availability depends on your ZIP code, but EBT can still be used for eligible groceries even if Amazon Fresh is not offered in your area.
Because Amazon participates nationally in the USDA program, most SNAP households can use their EBT card for grocery delivery as long as they purchase SNAP-approved items.
>>> Read more: Can You Use EBT Cash Online at Walmart
2. How to Use Your EBT Card on Amazon: Step-by-Step
If you’re still wondering can you use EBT on Amazon, the process becomes very simple once you know how to set up your account and shop correctly.
Amazon has made SNAP EBT payments easy to use by integrating the option directly into your account settings, allowing you to shop for eligible groceries just like any other Amazon purchase.
Add your SNAP EBT card to Amazon
Begin by logging in to your Amazon account. Go to Your Payments, select Add a payment method, and choose EBT Card.
Enter your EBT card number, save it, and your account will automatically recognize SNAP-eligible items during checkout.
Shop for SNAP-eligible items
Browse Amazon Fresh or Amazon Grocery to find items marked as SNAP EBT Eligible. These typically include produce, dairy, meat, pantry staples, canned foods, snacks, and non-alcoholic beverages. You can filter search results to show only eligible products, making it easier to avoid items that require another form of payment.
Checkout process when using EBT card on Amazon
At checkout, Amazon will separate eligible and non-eligible items.
You can use your EBT card to pay for qualifying groceries, while delivery fees, tips, taxes, or non-food items must be paid with a debit or credit card. Once you confirm your order, Amazon will process it like any other delivery, offering tracking updates and scheduled delivery windows.
>>> Read more: Can You Buy Charcoal With EBT? What SNAP Really Covers
3. What You Can and Cannot Buy on Amazon With EBT
When using your SNAP benefits online, it’s important to know exactly what you can and cannot purchase. While Amazon accepts EBT for a wide range of groceries, certain items will always require an additional payment method at checkout.
SNAP-eligible food items on Amazon
Amazon offers a large selection of SNAP-eligible groceries through Amazon Fresh and the Grocery category. These items typically include:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Meat, poultry, seafood, and plant-based proteins
- Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt
- Bread, tortillas, cereal, pasta, and grains
- Canned foods, soups, sauces, and pantry staples
- Frozen foods meant to be cooked or reheated at home
- Snacks and non-alcoholic beverages
- Baking essentials such as flour, sugar, oil, and spices
Any item marked “SNAP EBT Eligible” can be paid for with your EBT card at checkout.
Non-eligible items
Even though Amazon accepts EBT, many products on the platform cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits. These include:
- Hot or prepared foods ready to eat
- Alcohol of any kind
- Household supplies (cleaning products, paper goods, soap)
- Pet food
- Vitamins, supplements, and over-the-counter medicine
- Beauty, personal care, and non-food items
- Delivery fees, shipping, tips, and taxes
For these items, Amazon will ask you to add a debit or credit card to complete your purchase.
4. Shopping Tips When Using EBT Card on Amazon
Shopping on Amazon with your EBT card is straightforward, but a few smart strategies can help you stretch your benefits and avoid checkout issues.
Here are helpful tips when shopping with EBT on Amazon:
- Look for the “SNAP EBT Eligible” label to avoid accidental non-eligible purchases.
- Use the SNAP filter in Amazon Fresh to view only qualifying grocery items.
- Add a secondary payment method to cover delivery fees, taxes, or non-eligible items.
- Compare prices between Amazon Fresh and Grocery to find better deals.
- Take advantage of Amazon’s discounted Prime membership for EBT users, which offers savings on deliveries and exclusive deals.
- Check for bulk options on staples like rice, pasta, and canned goods to save money long-term.
- Track your EBT balance before checkout to avoid declined transactions.
5. Enhance Your SNAP Benefits with a Free Phone
Your SNAP benefits help you access groceries, but staying connected is just as important for managing your household, finding work, accessing healthcare, and placing online orders on Amazon.
If you receive SNAP, you may also qualify for a free smartphone through the federal Lifeline program. This benefit provides eligible individuals with a free device and free monthly talk, text, and data, making it easier to manage your SNAP account, check delivery updates, and handle essential tasks online.
One of the top providers offering this support is AirTalk Wireless, known for the reliable service, fast approvals, and high-quality phone options. Eligible users can receive:
- A free smartphone
- Free monthly data, talk, and text
- Affordable upgrade options for newer models
- No contracts or credit checks
Applying is simple. Just visit AirTalk Wireless, complete the online Lifeline application, and verify your SNAP eligibility using your EBT documentation.
6. FAQs
How to add EBT to Amazon for discount?
- Go to Amazon’s SNAP EBT page and follow the on-screen steps (create an account if needed).
- Add your SNAP EBT card details.
- Shop items labeled SNAP EBT–eligible.
- Select EBT at checkout and enter your PIN to pay.
What can I buy with EBT on Amazon?
You can purchase SNAP-eligible groceries, including fresh produce, meat, dairy, pantry staples, canned goods, snacks, and non-alcoholic beverages. Look for items labeled “SNAP EBT Eligible.”
Can I buy non-food items with EBT on Amazon?
No. Non-food items such as cleaning supplies, toiletries, pet food, medicine, or household goods cannot be purchased with EBT.
Why is my EBT card not working on Amazon?
Your EBT card may not work if you’re trying to buy non-eligible items, your state doesn’t support online EBT, or your card balance is too low. Double-check eligibility labels, update your payment information, and verify your SNAP balance before checking out.
Conclusion
Understanding can you use EBT on Amazon makes grocery shopping easier, more convenient, and accessible for SNAP households. Amazon supports EBT payments for eligible food items in most states, allowing you to order essentials online with ease.
If you rely on EBT, staying connected is important for managing orders and accessing essential services. Apply now for a free phone through the Lifeline program to stay connected anytime you shop online.
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