Does Big Lots take EBT is a common question among SNAP recipients looking to stretch their benefits at popular retail chains.
While Big Lots is widely known for its low-cost furniture, home goods, and seasonal items, some authorized locations do accept EBT for eligible food products. However, acceptance varies by state and store.
1. Does Big Lots Take EBT?
Yes, EBT is accepted at Big Lots, but with a few strings attached. Only some Big Lots stores nationwide give the green light for EBT, and even then, it’s strictly limited to SNAP-approved food items.
Big Lots is not your typical grocery store. The chain is well known for offering a wide variety of products including furniture, household goods, home décor, cosmetics, and packaged food.
However, in some states such as California, Ohio, Texas, and Florida, certain authorized Big Lots locations do accept EBT card payments as long as you’re purchasing items that fall under SNAP’s approved list.
2. Does Big Lots Accept EBT in Specific States?
If you already understand that Big Lots only accepts EBT cards at select store locations and solely for SNAP-eligible items, you might be wondering whether EBT is accepted in key states like Ohio, Florida, and California.
Does Big Lots take EBT in Ohio?
In Ohio, where Big Lots was founded in Columbus, you can use your EBT card at select SNAP-authorized Big Lots stores.
According to official information, Big Lots now accepts EBT at all participating locations as long as they sell SNAP-eligible items such as packaged or unprepared food.
Does Big Lots take EBT in Florida?
In Florida, Big Lots operates under the same policy. Stores that are SNAP-authorized will accept EBT cards for eligible items. EBT users in this state typically receive support if the store displays the SNAP sign or is listed on the USDA’s SNAP Retailer Locator tool.
Does Big Lots take EBT in California?
In California, one of the most populous and diverse states, Big Lots follows a similar approach, accepting EBT cards for SNAP-eligible items at authorized locations.
However, many users in California have reported that even if stores sell eligible food products, EBT cards may not work if those items are not correctly coded into the SNAP payment system.
This indicates that EBT acceptance at Big Lots in California depends on the specific store.
Therefore, it’s important to verify ahead of time by calling the store directly to confirm support, especially due to potential product coding errors.
3. What Can You Buy with EBT at Big Lots?
Once you know that Big Lots only accepts EBT cards for items eligible under the SNAP program, it’s important to understand exactly what you can and cannot purchase using your EBT card.
Being aware of eligible products will help you use your benefits more efficiently and avoid confusion at checkout.
What you can, and can’t buy with EBT at Big Lots?
Big Lots lets you swipe your EBT card for must-have groceries, such as:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Meat
- Poultry
- Fish
- Dairy products like cheese and yogurt
- Bread and cereals
- Snacks like cookies, popcorn, and chips
- Non-alcoholic beverages like milk or juice.
- Even seeds and plants intended for growing food at home are eligible if the items are labeled with “Nutrition Facts.”
These products meet SNAP guidelines and are typically available at Big Lots, making them eligible for EBT payment.
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On the other hand, you cannot use your EBT card to purchase non-grocery items such as:
- Furniture
- Household goods
- Clothing
- Hygiene products
- Alcoholic beverages
- Pet food or live animals
- Hot prepared foods
- Any item labeled with “Supplement Facts” such as vitamins, dietary supplements, and protein bars categorized as functional foods.
These non-food items are not covered by SNAP benefits under federal law, and this policy is consistently enforced at all Big Lots stores.
Guide for checking item eligibility at Big Lots
Here are some simple yet crucial tips to help you determine whether a product at Big Lots is EBT-eligible:
- Scan the packaging, only items with a “Nutrition Facts” label make the EBT-approved list. If it instead has a “Supplement Facts” label, it is most likely not eligible for purchase with EBT.
- Ask the cashier for help: Some Big Lots locations may have POS systems that do not clearly separate EBT-eligible items. If you’re unsure, ask the cashier to scan individual items to confirm which are covered by your EBT balance.
- Check if the store accepts SNAP: Not all Big Lots locations are authorized SNAP retailers. If you are not sure your local Big Lots accepts EBT. Just check the USDA’s SNAP Retailer Locator or spot the SNAP sticker at the entrance.
- Review your receipt after purchase: Many stores mark EBT-approved items on the receipt with a symbol or notation. Reviewing your receipt helps you identify which products were eligible so you can shop smarter next time.
4. How to Maximize Benefits with SNAP?
When using your EBT card, you’re not limited to purchasing food or other eligible essentials, you may qualify for additional support if you’re currently receiving SNAP benefits and using your EBT card.
To truly maximize the value of your EBT assistance, it’s important to understand the additional federal programs designed to support low-income individuals, one of the most impactful of these is the Lifeline Program.
Backed by the FCC, the Lifeline Program has been a trusted government effort for years. It offers monthly discounts on mobile phone or internet service bills for eligible low-income households, including those enrolled in SNAP/EBT.
Keep in mind: Lifeline doesn’t hand out free phones or tablets, it partners with providers who do.
Instead, the program collaborates with certified service providers, who may offer free or low-cost devices as part of their own assistance packages giving qualified users not just affordable service, but also the tools to access that service.
Essentially, if you qualify for SNAP and use an EBT card, you likely already qualify for Lifeline.
Among the top Lifeline providers, AirTalk Wireless stands out for its wide range of services and reliable coverage. While Lifeline handles the monthly service discount, AirTalk Wireless enhances your experience by offering free smartphones and unlimited talk, text, and data plans to eligible users.
Here’s how AirTalk Wireless helps users maximize their benefits:
- Access to free smartphones, including popular models like the iPhone SE 2 and Samsung Galaxy series, etc.
- Free shipping, no contracts, and no credit checks
- Nationwide coverage with reliable service
- Easy application process using your SNAP eligibility
By combining your EBT qualification with AirTalk Wireless through the Lifeline Program, you’re not only saving money on groceries through programs like SNAP and retailers like Big Lots, but you’re also gaining access to critical digital connectivity, essential for job applications, online learning, and accessing healthcare services.
5. FAQs
Does El Pollo Loco take EBT in California?
El Pollo Loco does accept EBT, but only at locations approved under the CalFresh Restaurant Meals Program (RMP), not across the entire chain.
Only eligible customers, specifically seniors, people with disabilities, or those experiencing homelessness, can use EBT to purchase hot meals at participating restaurants under the RMP guidelines.
There are over 200 El Pollo Loco restaurants in California that are authorized to accept EBT, primarily located in areas like Los Angeles and Orange County. Each location must be individually registered to participate in the program.
Does Wienerschnitzel Take EBT in California?
Yes, Wienerschnitzel has at least 17 locations in California that participate in the CalFresh RMP and are authorized to accept EBT for eligible customers.
Like El Pollo Loco, only individuals who qualify under the RMP, namely seniors, people with disabilities, or the homeless, are allowed to use their EBT cards to purchase hot meals at these approved locations.
>>> Read more: SNAP Restrictions – Everything You Need to Know About Limits & Eligibility
Final Words
The answer to “Does Big Lots take EBT” is Yes, but only at select SNAP-authorized locations and for eligible food items. To make the most of your benefits, always check with your local store and review SNAP guidelines before shopping. Stay informed, shop smart, and don’t forget to bookmark this guide or share it with others who rely on EBT for everyday essentials.