Does CVS Take EBT? Here’s Everything You Need To Know
CVS is one of the largest pharmacy and retail chains in the United States, with over 9,000 stores across the country. If you’re receiving SNAP benefits and wondering: “Does CVS take EBT cards?”, you’re in the right place.
This article will take you through everything you need to know – and yes, we’ll give you a clear answer right away!
1. Quick Answer: Does CVS Take EBT?
Yes! All CVS Pharmacy locations accept EBT cards in-store for eligible food and grocery items. And here’s even better news: from April, 2025, you can use your EBT card online through DoorDash and Uber Eats when shopping from participating CVS stores.
This expansion offers greater convenience to SNAP recipients, especially for those with limited mobility or transportation. With just a few clicks, essential food and grocery items can be delivered straight to your door, paid for using your SNAP benefits.
>>> Read more: Does Aldi Take EBT Cards Online and In-Store? Full Breakdown
2. How CVS Expands EBT Access With Delivery Platforms
Millions of Americans rely on SNAP benefits to access essential food items. But not everyone can easily make it to a store due to health issues, lack of transportation, or time constraints. Recognizing this need, CVS has expanded its SNAP/EBT access through popular delivery platforms.
“We know millions of Americans depend on SNAP benefits every day,” said Zachary Dennett, Vice President of Merchandising, Consumer Health and Wellness and Supplemental Benefits at CVS Health. “By providing those customers with more options to shop with us, we’re meeting them when and where they need us to ensure they can easily access essential grocery and food items.”
Thanks to CVS’s partnerships with DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Forage, SNAP recipients can now shop online using their EBT cards at over 7,100 CVS Pharmacy locations. Here’s what this means:
- Online SNAP/EBT payments are accepted via DoorDash and Uber Eats.
- Over 37,000 SNAP-eligible items are available, including groceries, beverages, snacks, and pantry essentials.
- Same-day delivery and curbside pickup options remain available via CVS.com or the CVS Health app.
- ExtraCare Plus members enjoy free same-day delivery within three hours on most items.
This update makes CVS one of the most accessible options for SNAP recipients who want convenient, flexible ways to shop.
3. How To Use SNAP EBT Cards At CVS?
Using your EBT card at CVS is easy, whether you’re shopping in-store or online. Here’s a quick guide:
3.1 Using EBT Cards In-store
If you’re visiting a CVS location in person, here’s how to use your EBT card:
- Go to your nearest CVS Pharmacy.
- Choose items that are SNAP-eligible. Look for food and drink products.
- At checkout, swipe your EBT card like a debit card.
- Enter your PIN to approve the transaction.
- If your cart includes both SNAP and non-SNAP items, you can split the payment using a second method.
3.1 Online via DoorDash or Uber Eats
CVS now allows EBT payments online through its delivery partners. Here’s how you can order from home:
- Add your EBT card to your account as a payment method.
- Navigate to the CVS storefront on the app.
- Add eligible grocery items to your cart.
- At checkout, select how much of your SNAP benefit you want to use.
- Complete the purchase and wait for your delivery.
3.3 What You Can and Can’t Buy with EBT at CVS
While your EBT card can help cover a wide range of grocery items, it’s important to understand which products are eligible under SNAP rules, especially at stores like CVS that sell both food and non-food items.
CVS offers a variety of snacks, pantry staples, and baby items that qualify, but it also carries many items that are not covered.
Use the table below to help you shop smart and avoid surprises at checkout:
| Eligible with EBT (Can Buy) | Not Eligible with EBT (Cannot Buy) |
| Fresh fruits and vegetables | Alcohol, beer, and wine |
| Dairy products | Hot prepared foods or meals |
| Breads, cereals, and grains | Vitamins, supplements, and medicines |
| Meat, poultry, and fish | Toiletries, cosmetics, and cleaning supplies |
| Baby food and infant formula | Pet food and non-food household items |
| Snacks and non-alcoholic beverages | CBD or cannabis-related products |
>>> Also check out: The Most Surprising Things You Can Buy With EBT Card (Or Cannot)
4. How To Use Your EBT Cards To Claim Lifeline Benefits?
If you already have an EBT card, there’s more good news, you likely qualify for Lifeline. It’s a federal assistance program designed to make communication services more affordable for low-income households.
Because SNAP participation makes you automatically eligible, you can use your EBT-linked benefits to apply for Lifeline with minimal effort. This can be a huge help if you’re managing essential tasks like job hunting, schoolwork, or medical appointments.
Below are key things to know about Lifeline:
- It’s a government program run by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
- Only one Lifeline benefit is allowed per household.
- Proof of eligibility might be required, such as a benefits letter showing your SNAP enrollment.
- You can apply online through the National Verifier or directly through a Lifeline provider.
- Lifeline offers:
- A monthly discount of up to $9.25 on phone or internet services (or up to $34.25 if you live on Tribal lands)
- Free or discounted smartphones from approved providers
- Service plans with free talk, text, and data from approved providers
To claim your Lifeline benefits if you’re on SNAP, simply choose a trusted provider like AirTalk Wireless, then:
- Enter your ZIP code to check service availability.
- Choose your preferred service plan (and free device if included).
- Submit your SNAP documentation (if required).
- Get approved and receive your device by mail.
Important note: Your EBT card itself is no longer accepted as proof of eligibility.
It’s a smart way to stretch your benefits and stay connected, especially important for job searches, healthcare appointments, and family communication.
5. FAQs
5.1 Does CVS Accept EBT In NYC?
Yes. All CVS locations across the U.S., including those in New York City, accept EBT for eligible food purchases.
5.2 Where Can I Pay with An EBT Card?
Many grocery stores, farmers markets, and convenience stores participate in the SNAP program. For a full list of retailers, visit the SNAP Online Purchasing Pilot guide on the USDA website.
5.3 Does CVS Sell Stamps?
Yes, but only in booklets. CVS sells basic first-class Forever stamps in sets, not individual ones. Forever stamps never expire and remain valid even if postal rates increase. It’s smart to stock up before any planned USPS rate hikes, especially if you run a small business or send mail frequently.
Conclusion
So, does CVS take EBT? Absolutely. Whether you shop in-store or online, CVS makes it easy for SNAP recipients to access groceries and essential items. Plus, with their new partnerships with DoorDash and Uber Eats, shopping has never been more convenient.
Don’t forget: if you’re using an EBT card, you may also qualify for free or discounted phone service through Lifeline. Visit AirTalk Wireless to check your eligibility and apply today.
