Does Menards Take EBT? A 2025 Guide to Using SNAP

It’s one of the most common and confusing questions for SNAP recipients: Does Menards take EBT?

This guide will explain Menards’ official policy in detail, cover exactly what you can and can’t buy, explore how cash benefits differ, and explain how your SNAP eligibility can also help you get a free phone.

1. The Official Answer: Does Menards Take EBT?

Here’s the simple breakdown of Menards’ policy and why it often causes confusion for shoppers.

Currently, Menards does not accept EBT (SNAP).

For SNAP recipients looking to use their benefits, grocery stores and select retailers such as Walmart, Target, and Kroger might be more practical options. Most of these stores carry a wide range of SNAP-eligible items and are equipped to process EBT payments across all eligible purchases.

If you are unsure which stores near you accept EBT, the USDA’s SNAP retailer locator at snap retail locator allows you to search by ZIP code for authorized retailers in your area.

And therefore, if you wonder whether you can use EBT card on Menards.com, unfortunately No.

Menards is not part of the USDA’s SNAP Online Purchasing Pilot. This program requires retailers to have a special certification to accept EBT payments online, which Menards does not have.

2. What You Can Buy with EBT

This is the most important part to understand. Your EBT card’s SNAP (food) benefits will only be used for a specific list of items.

EBT-Eligible Items

According to the USDA’s SNAP eligible food list, your EBT benefits are for food items to be prepared and eaten at home. This translates to three main categories:

1. Snacks: You can find a selection of snacks, usually located in the checkout aisles or near the front of the store. This includes items like:
   • Chips and pretzels
   • Candy bars
   • Cookies and crackers
   • Beef jerky
2. Beverages: You can also purchase non-alcoholic beverages, such as:
   • Soda
   • Bottled water
   • Juice
   • Energy drinks
3. Seeds and Plants (Food-Producing Only): This is a key category that many shoppers overlook. You can use your EBT card to buy seeds and plants that produce food for your household to eat. This is because the SNAP program is designed to promote food security, and growing your own food is a key part of that. Eligible items include:
   • Packets of vegetable seeds (tomatoes, peppers, lettuce, etc.)
   • Fruit bushes (like strawberry or blueberry plants)
   • Young vegetable plants (like tomato or cucumber starters)
   • Fruit trees
   • Herbs (like basil, parsley, or mint plants)

EBT-Ineligible Items

The list of items you cannot buy with your SNAP benefits is essentially everything else in the store.

SNAP is a nutrition program, so non-food items are strictly prohibited. Your EBT payment will be declined for all home improvement and non-food items, including:

• Tools (power tools, hand tools, etc.)
• Lumber, drywall, and building materials
• Paint and painting supplies
• Cleaning supplies and household chemicals
• Pet food and supplies (a common point of confusion)
• Gardening supplies: This is a critical distinction. While you can buy a tomato plant, you cannot buy fertilizer, potting soil, garden hoses, shovels, gloves, or pots.
• Decorative plants and flowers (non-food-producing)
• Home decor, appliances, and furniture
• Outdoor items like patio furniture or grills
• Alcohol and tobacco
• Vitamins and medicine

>>> Read more: EBT-Eligible Items (Non-Food): Things You Can Buy with EBT

3. Using Your EBT Benefits and Other Programs

While you’re already in the mindset of using your benefits, don’t forget one of the most valuable ones.

Since you are eligible for SNAP, you also automatically qualify for the federal Lifeline program. This program helps low-income families stay connected by providing free or low-cost phone service.

With a leading provider like AirTalk Wireless, you can use your SNAP eligibility to get a complete package at no cost:

• A FREE 4G/5G Smartphone
• FREE Unlimited Monthly Talk & Text
• FREE High-Speed Data

6. Final Words

So, the answer to “Does Menards take EBT?” is a no. It’s best to think of it as a convenient option if you’re already in the store for home improvement supplies and need to grab a drink, a snack, or seeds for your garden.

Just remember the simple rule: your EBT card will only pay for food items and food-producing plants, not home improvement supplies. Don’t forget that your SNAP eligibility also qualifies you for a free phone through the Lifeline program, offered by providers like AirTalk Wireless.