If you’ve ever searched “Does Walmart take EBT in store” while planning your next grocery run, you’re not alone. Many SNAP shoppers want to know exactly where and how they can use their benefits, especially at major retailers like Walmart.
Understanding EBT rules, store policies, and checkout steps can help you shop with confidence and avoid surprises at the register. This guide breaks down everything you need to know for 2025, from how EBT works to what to expect when using your card at Walmart.
1. Does Walmart Take EBT In Store?
Yes. Walmart accepts EBT in-store at nearly all of its locations across the United States.
SNAP shoppers can use their EBT card at any staffed checkout lane or self-checkout station to pay for approved groceries. The process works the same as using a debit card, and Walmart’s system automatically separates eligible and non-eligible items.
1.1 What Is EBT and How Does It Work?
EBT, or Electronic Benefits Transfer, is the system used to distribute SNAP (Food Stamps) benefits. Each month, your approved SNAP amount is added to your EBT card, which you can use at participating stores to buy eligible food items. At Walmart, you simply:
- Swipe or insert your EBT card at checkout
- Enter your PIN
- Pay for any non-SNAP items with another payment method
The system automatically applies your SNAP balance to eligible items only.
2. How to Find Stores That Accept EBT?
Finding a Walmart that accepts EBT is easy, since most locations participate. Here are the most reliable ways to confirm:
- Use Walmart’s Store Finder: Visit Walmart.com and use the store locator. Each store page lists accepted services, including EBT.
- Check Google Maps: Search “Walmart near me EBT” or view store details. Many locations display “EBT accepted” in their services section.
- Call Your Local Store: For full accuracy, calling your preferred Walmart store will confirm whether they accept EBT in-store and online.
- Check the Walmart App: When browsing stores in the app, locations that support EBT for pickup or delivery will show the EBT payment option.
>>> Learn more: Surprising Things You Can Buy with EBT at Walmart
3. How to Use Your EBT Card at Walmart In-Store
Many shoppers look up “Does Walmart take EBT in store” simply because they want to understand how the checkout process works. Using your EBT card at Walmart is straightforward, and the steps are almost identical to using a regular debit card. Whether you shop at a Walmart Supercenter, Neighborhood Market, or a smaller local store, the process remains consistent.
Here’s how to use EBT inside Walmart:
- Shop for SNAP-eligible items: Fill your cart with approved groceries such as fruits, vegetables, dairy, meat, bread, cereal, pantry goods, snacks, and non-alcoholic beverages.
- Go to any checkout lane: You can use your EBT card at both staffed registers and self-checkout machines.
- Swipe or insert your EBT card: The payment terminal will prompt you just like a debit card.
- Enter your PIN: This confirms your identity and authorizes the EBT transaction.
- Pay separately for non-eligible items: If your cart includes items that EBT does not cover (such as cleaning supplies or hot prepared foods), you must use another payment method for those items. The Walmart system automatically separates eligible and non-eligible charges.
- Get your receipt: Your printed receipt will show how much was deducted from your SNAP balance and how much remains.
This makes Walmart one of the easiest retailers for SNAP users because nearly every store supports EBT seamlessly.
4. Does Walmart take EBT in store for Walmart Online Orders
Walmart also allows SNAP shoppers to use EBT for online orders, including grocery pickup and delivery, in most states.
Here is how to use your EBT card online:
- Create or log into your Walmart account: Use the Walmart app or Walmart.com.
- Add your EBT card information: Go to “Payment Methods,” select “EBT card,” and enter your card number.
- Shop for SNAP-eligible groceries: Eligible items are marked clearly, and Walmart filters can help you find approved products quickly.
- Choose pickup or delivery
- EBT Pickup: Supported at most Walmart stores.
- EBT Delivery: Availability varies by location.
- Select EBT as your payment method: When checking out, choose EBT to apply your SNAP balance to eligible items.
- Pay for non-eligible items or fees separately: Delivery fees, service fees, tips, or non-SNAP items must be paid using a debit or credit card.
- Enter your EBT PIN (Pickup orders only): For grocery pickup, you will enter your PIN when you pick up your order. For delivery, the system charges your EBT card automatically for eligible items.
Using EBT online at Walmart gives SNAP users a convenient way to shop from home while still accessing low prices and a large selection of groceries.
5. Extra Tip: Use Your EBT to Unlock More Free Benefits
If you have SNAP/EBT, you may qualify for additional programs beyond grocery assistance. Many people are unaware that EBT participation can unlock extra perks, including:
- Free smartphones through the Lifeline Program
- Discounted tablets from approved providers
- Low-cost internet plans, depending on your state
- Reduced museum admission through Museums for All
- Community programs offering utility discounts or transportation support
To check communication benefits specifically, SNAP users can apply through Lifeline providers like AirTalk Wireless to receive a free phone or a discounted tablet, depending on availability in their area. These benefits help households stay connected without straining their budget.
Conclusion
So, the answer to this question, “Does Walmart take EBT in store?”, is Yes. Walmart remains one of the most EBT-friendly retailers in the country. Most stores accept EBT in-store, and many also support EBT for online pickup and delivery. Whether you shop in person or online, Walmart makes it easy to use your SNAP benefits for eligible groceries while automatically separating non-eligible items.
With a clear understanding of how EBT works, what you can buy, and how to find participating stores, you can make the most of your benefits and shop confidently at Walmart anytime in 2025.
FAQs About Using EBT at Walmart
What payments does Walmart accept?
Walmart accepts EBT, debit, credit, Walmart Pay, gift cards, and in some locations cash. Online, SNAP users can combine EBT with a debit or credit card to cover non-eligible items.
What can you buy with EBT at Walmart?
You can buy most grocery staples such as fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, bread, snacks, pantry essentials, and non-alcoholic beverages. Seeds and plants that grow food are also eligible.
What you cannot buy with EBT at Walmart?
SNAP cannot be used for hot foods, alcohol, tobacco, vitamins, supplements, pet food, cleaning supplies, or household products. These must be paid with another method. Many shoppers who search “Does Walmart take EBT in store” are often checking these product restrictions before shopping.