Does Trader Joe’s Take EBT Cards? What You Actually Can Buy

More than 80% of SNAP benefits are spent at larger retailers, such as superstores (like Walmart and Costco) and supermarkets. Whether you’ve used your EBT card for groceries before or you’re considering using it at a new store like Trader Joe’s, you might be wondering, “Does Trader Joe’s take EBT? “, and what you can actually buy with it. 

To find out, we looked into what Trader Joe’s has to offer for EBT users, along with the items that qualify for purchase under the program. Here’s what you need to know.

1. Does Trader Joe’s Accept EBT?

Trader Joe’s is a beloved national grocery chain known for its product offerings, welcoming neighborhood atmosphere, and focus on high-quality goods at affordable everyday prices. Trader Joe’s curates its own exclusive private-label items. 

Trader Joe’s does accept EBT cards at all of their store locations across the U.S. That means if you’re enrolled in SNAP, also known as food stamps, you can use your benefits at any Trader Joe’s store to purchase eligible grocery items.

Keep in mind that EBT cards can only be used to purchase eligible food items. You can buy a wide variety of nutritious groceries, such as fresh fruits and veggies, meats, breads, dairy products, snacks, frozen meals, and non-alcoholic beverages. 

Trader Joe’s doesn’t offer online ordering, curbside pickup, or delivery, so you need to shop in person to use your SNAP benefits.

2. What Can You Buy with EBT at Trader Joe’s

Trader Joe’s stocks plenty of EBT-eligible essentials and goodies. If you’re using your EBT card, here’s what you can toss in your cart: 

• Fresh produce 
• Meat and poultry  
• Seafood 
• Dairy products 
• Pantry staples 
• Frozen foods 
• Breads and cereals  
• Snacks  
• Non-alcoholic drinks 

You can get plenty of healthy, tasty Trader Joe’s products using your EBT card, as long as they qualify under SNAP guidelines. 

If the product has a “Nutrition Facts” label, it’s most likely EBT-eligible. But if you see a “Supplement Facts” label (like on vitamins or some protein powders), that’s a no-go with EBT. 

>>> Check more: Surprising things you can buy with EBT

3. What Is Not EBT Eligible at Trader Joe’s? 

There are a few no-go items you should be aware of. SNAP benefits are meant to cover food you can prepare and eat at home, so certain things fall outside the eligible zone. Here’s what you can’t buy with an EBT card at Trader Joe’s: 

• Alcohol 
• Tobacco products  
• Vitamins, medicines, or supplements. If a product has a “Supplement Facts” label, it’s considered a supplement and not EBT eligible. 
• Household items like paper towels, cleaning supplies, soap, and shampoo 
• Pet food 
• Hot or prepared foods

4. EBT & Online Shopping: Can You Use It at Trader Joe’s? 

Trader Joe’s does not offer online shopping, curbside pickup, or delivery. That means you can’t use your EBT card online with them either. Everything at Trader Joe’s happens in-store. 

Don’t worry, you still have options if you prefer shopping online with EBT. Walmart and Amazon are among the popular stores that do accept EBT for online grocery orders. Supermarkets and superstores like Walmart make up 15% of SNAP-accepting locations but account for nearly 80% of redemptions. 89 online retailers, including Amazon, represented just 4% of redemptions in 2021.

5. EBT Shopping Tips at Trader Joe’s 

Trader Joe’s isn’t the cheapest grocery store, but it can offer great value on certain items. 

Shopping with an EBT card at Trader Joe’s can be a great experience, especially if you’re selective. While Trader Joe’s isn’t a discount store like Walmart, it offers strong value on unique, high-quality items. Many frozen foods and fresh produce are competitively priced compared to traditional supermarkets. Moreover, Trader Joe’s private-label products often rival name brands in quality, but without the added markup. 

You may find that bulk items or certain packaged goods can cost more than in discount stores. Trader Joe’s doesn’t offer weekly sales, coupons, or digital discounts. Prices stay consistent and fair year-round, so you won’t need to chase deals or clip coupons to save money. 

If you’re on a very tight EBT budget, compare unit prices with ALDI or Walmart. Purchase essentials where they’re cheapest, and then swing by Trader Joe’s for the fun items, like their favorite snacks and affordable frozen meals.

>>> Read more: CalFresh Shopping 101: What You Can Buy with CalFresh

FAQs 

What forms of payment does Trader Joe’s accept? 

Trader Joe’s accepts several forms of payment, including: 

• Mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay) 
• Cash 
• Credit and debit cards 
• Personal checks 
• EBT cards 
• Trader Joe’s physical gift cards

Do you know you can get EBT free phone service?

If you receive SNAP benefits (have an EBT card, have supporting documents like apr), you may qualify for free phone service through the Lifeline program. Just apply with a participating provider, such as AirTalk Wireless, and verify your eligibility. You will be able to receive free phone or tablet with data as the provider’s exclusive benefits.

Does Trader Joe’s have protein powders? 

Trader Joe’s does carry several protein powders, including plant-based options. These are available in-store and cater to various dietary preferences, including vegan and keto-friendly needs.  

However, please note that protein powders are commonly not eligible for purchase with an EBT card as they are often categorized under supplements, which are not covered by SNAP benefits. 

Does Trader Joe’s take WIC? 

Trader Joe’s does not accept WIC benefits due to the program’s strict brand and size requirements. Unlike SNAP (food stamps), which allows participants to purchase nearly any grocery item regardless of nutritional value, WIC follows federal guidelines to select specific products and quantities that vendors must offer. 

Can I use EBT at Costco? 

You can use your EBT card at Costco warehouse locations to purchase eligible food items. Costco accepts EBT cards at all its warehouse locations and follows state regulations on eligible EBT purchases.

Conclusion 

The bottom line is that Trader Joe’s does accept EBT cards, but just like with any store, there are guidelines for what you can and can’t buy. So, when you’re shopping, keep in mind that most food items are eligible, while prepared or non-food products aren’t. If you’re ever in doubt, the cashier can help you navigate the process. 

And if Trader Joe’s doesn’t fully meet your needs for EBT purchases, remember there are plenty of other stores that may offer different options or have a wider selection of items. You deserve a shopping experience that’s convenient, affordable, and meets all your grocery needs.