Instacart has become one of the easiest ways for SNAP shoppers to get groceries delivered, but many users still wonder which stores accept EBT on Instacart and how the payment process works. Because Instacart partners with hundreds of retailers nationwide, EBT availability varies by state, store, and delivery area.
This guide breaks down the full 2026 list of participating stores, what items you can buy, and how to set up your EBT card so you can start shopping online with confidence.
1. Can You Use EBT on Instacart?
Yes. Instacart allows shoppers to pay for online grocery orders using an EBT card in every state that participates in the SNAP Online Purchasing Program.
Many people who search “which stores accept EBT on Instacart” want to know whether their local retailers support the feature, and the answer depends on your ZIP code and the store you select. Instacart partners with hundreds of supermarkets, but only approved SNAP retailers can process EBT online.
U.S. customers can use EBT for eligible food items only, while a credit or debit card is required to cover delivery fees, service fees, taxes, tips, bottle deposits, and any non-EBT items. Instacart does not accept EBT Cash and EBT is not available for Groceries Powered by Instacart users.
2. Which Stores Accept EBT on Instacart? (Updated)
If you’re trying to figure out which stores accept EBT on Instacart, the list is now larger than ever.
Instacart partners with hundreds of national, regional, and local retailers, but EBT availability depends on each store’s approval status and the state where you shop. Below is a simplified breakdown to help you navigate the most common participating stores.
2.1. Major National Retailers
These nationwide chains accept EBT on Instacart in most participating states:
- Walmart
- Aldi / Aldi Express
- Costco
- Publix
- Safeway / Albertsons banners (ACME, Vons, Jewel-Osco, Shaw’s, Star Market, etc.)
- Kroger banners (Kroger, Fry’s, Fred Meyer, King Soopers, Harris Teeter, etc.)
- Food Lion, Giant, Hannaford, Stop & Shop (Ahold Delhaize banners)
- Sprouts Farmers Market
- Meijer
- Hy-Vee
- Walgreens / Duane Reade
These retailers support EBT for eligible groceries, while fees must be covered by a credit or debit card.
>>> Learn more: Surprising Things You Can Buy with EBT at Walmart
2.2. Regional Grocery Chains
Instacart also partners with many regional grocers that accept EBT, such as:
- Cub Foods (IL, MN)
- Dierbergs Markets (IL, MO)
- Rouses (AL, LA, MS)
- Hays Supermarket (AR, MO)
- Holiday Market (CA, OR)
- WinCo Foods (various Western states)
- Harps Food Store
- King Cash Saver
- Marc’s (OH)
- Lowes Foods
- Tops Friendly Markets
- Wegmans
- Yoke’s Fresh Market
- PAQ Inc. (Food 4 Less, Rancho San Miguel Markets)
Availability still varies by ZIP code even within the same state.
2.3. Local & State-Approved Stores
Hundreds of smaller grocers and cooperatives also accept EBT on Instacart. Examples include:
- KJ’s Markets
- Weavers Way Co-op
- Greenway Markets
- Brigido’s Fresh Market
- 3 Guys From Brooklyn
- Jerry’s Foods
- New Seasons Market
- Co-opportunity Market
- Gus’s Community Market
- DeCicco & Sons
- Uwajimaya
- Gene’s Fine Foods
- Fairway Market / ShopRite / PriceRite (Wakefern)
- Western Beef
- C&K Market, Ray’s Food Place, Shop Smart
- Tony’s Fresh Market
Because the full list is extremely long, you can always check Instacart’s official page for the most current updates.
3. What You Can Buy With EBT on Instacart
Instacart follows federal SNAP guidelines when determining which items can be purchased using your EBT card.
Only foods intended for home preparation qualify, and Instacart clearly labels eligible products in the app to help shoppers check out smoothly. For anyone researching “which stores accept EBT on Instacart”, the approved retailers will also show which items are SNAP-eligible so you know exactly what can be added to your cart.
3.1. EBT-Eligible Items
You can pay with EBT for any item marked “EBT-eligible” on Instacart, including:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Meat, poultry, and seafood
- Dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt
- Breads, cereals, rice, and pasta
- Frozen foods and frozen meals (as long as they’re not hot)
- Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
- Canned goods and pantry staples
- Seeds and plants that produce food
Instacart allows you to filter your search using the EBT-eligible toggle so only qualifying items appear in your results.
3.2. Items Not Covered by EBT
Per federal SNAP rules, these items cannot be purchased with EBT on Instacart:
- Alcohol (beer, wine, liquor)
- Tobacco products
- Hot or prepared foods meant for immediate consumption
- Vitamins, medicines, and supplements (If an item has a Supplement Facts label, it is automatically ineligible)
- Household supplies (paper goods, cleaning products, etc.)
- Hygiene products and cosmetics
- Pet food
- Any non-food merchandise sold by retailers
If your cart includes ineligible items, Instacart automatically separates them so they can be paid with your credit or debit card.
4. How to Add EBT Card to Instacart
Before using EBT for delivery or pickup, you must link your card to your Instacart account. This setup only takes a moment and ensures that the system can verify your card for eligible purchases.
4.1. Step-by-Step Guide
You can add your EBT card in just a few taps. Here’s how it works on each platform:
Adding your EBT card in the Instacart app
- Open the Account tab.
- Go to Settings.
- Select EBT SNAP under Payment Methods.
- Tap Add EBT SNAP card.
- Enter the name and card number exactly as shown on your card.
- Re-enter the number to confirm and tap Save.
Adding your EBT card on the Instacart website
- Open the menu (three horizontal lines).
- Click Your account settings.
- Select Add EBT SNAP card.
- Enter the name and card number.
- Click Save to complete the setup.
Instacart also requires a credit or debit card on file to cover delivery fees, service fees, tips, taxes, and any non-EBT-eligible items.
4.2. Verify Eligibility
After your EBT card is saved, Instacart may need to verify additional information before enabling EBT checkout. This depends on your state and which store you plan to shop from. Verification may include:
- Confirming your address, which some states require before online EBT payments are allowed.
- Selecting a participating store, since EBT support varies by retailer and ZIP code.
- Updating to the latest app version, especially if you don’t see the EBT option appear immediately.
Once verification is complete, your EBT card will show up as a payment option at checkout for all eligible stores in your area.
5. How to Use Your EBT Card on Instacart for Delivery or Pickup
Once your EBT card is linked and verified, you can use it to pay for eligible groceries during checkout. Instacart automatically separates SNAP-approved items from non-eligible ones, making the payment process simple whether you choose home delivery or store pickup.
If you’re browsing which stores accept EBT on Instacart, you’ll notice that eligible retailers display clear SNAP labels, and the checkout system applies your EBT balance only to approved food items while asking for a debit or credit card for fees or non-SNAP products.
5.1. Using EBT During Checkout
When your cart is ready:
- Tap the Cart icon to review your order.
- Select your address, delivery or pickup window, and contact details.
- Choose both your EBT card and your credit/debit card.
- EBT covers eligible food items.
- Your backup card covers fees, taxes, tips, and ineligible products.
- Under Your payment split, adjust how much to apply from your EBT balance.
- Confirm your selections and choose Place Order.
- Enter your EBT PIN to authorize the SNAP portion of the purchase.
Instacart allows you to adjust your payment split after placing the order, up until your shopper completes the delivery or pickup.
5.2. Delivery vs Pickup
Instacart supports EBT for both delivery and pickup orders, but each option works a little differently:
Delivery
- EBT covers only SNAP-approved groceries.
- Delivery fees, service fees, bottle deposits, and tips require a credit or debit card.
- Not all retailers offer EBT delivery in every state, so availability depends on your ZIP code.
Pickup
- Often the most budget-friendly choice because many stores waive or reduce fees.
- EBT works exactly the same as delivery, you still verify with your PIN at checkout.
- Pickup is offered at a wider range of stores compared to delivery in some regions.
If EBT isn’t appearing as a payment method, your selected retailer may not support EBT for online orders in your state, or you may need to update your app.
6. Extra Benefit with EBT? You May Also Qualify for Free Phone Through AirTalk Wireless
If you have SNAP benefits, you’re not limited to grocery support. SNAP participation also makes you eligible for additional communication assistance through the federal Lifeline Program. This program helps low-income households stay connected by providing free or discounted phone service through approved providers like AirTalk Wireless.
6.1. If You Have SNAP, You Likely Qualify for Lifeline
SNAP is one of the primary qualifying programs for Lifeline, meaning many EBT cardholders can apply without needing to upload income documents. Depending on your state, eligibility may even be verified automatically.
With Lifeline providers, you can receive:
- Free nationwide talk and text
- Monthly data at no cost
- The option to upgrade to better devices for a small co-pay
- An eSIM option for compatible phones
Some applicants may need to provide a SNAP award letter, a government-issued ID, or proof of address if automatic verification isn’t available.
6.2. AirTalk Provides Free Monthly Service or Free eSIM
AirTalk Wireless is one of the top Lifeline providers, known for offering stronger device options than many competitors. Eligible SNAP recipients may qualify for:
- A free smartphone
- A free wireless plan with unlimited talk and text
- A free SIM, or free eSIM for phones that support digital activation
- Access to low-cost upgrade devices or discounted tablets
IMPORTANT: The government does not subsidize devices. Lifeline programs cover basic service costs only. Free or discounted devices, upgrade plans, or top-ups are exclusive benefits provided by AirTalk Wireless as part of our promotional offers. Terms and conditions apply. Limited-time promotion—offers vary by state, stock availability, and eligibility.
To apply:
- Visit the AirTalk Wireless website.
- Enter your ZIP code.
- Review the Lifeline plans available in your state.
- Choose a free device or an upgrade model.
- Submit your application and complete any required verification steps.
Your phone and service are shipped at no cost once approved.
7. Conclusion
Shopping online with SNAP has become much easier, and Instacart is now one of the most convenient ways to buy groceries using your EBT card. With dozens of national chains, regional stores, and local markets participating, you now have far more flexibility in where and how you shop. Understanding which stores accept EBT on Instacart, how eligibility works, and how to set up your card ensures a smooth and stress-free experience every time you order.
FAQs About Using EBT on Instacart
What stores can you use EBT on Instacart?
You can use your EBT card at many national chains, regional supermarkets, and local stores on Instacart. Major retailers include Walmart, Aldi, Food Lion, Publix, Safeway, Meijer, and dozens more. For the most accurate list of which stores accept EBT on Instacart, check Instacart’s official retailer directory.
Do any online grocery stores accept EBT?
Yes. Many online grocery stores accept EBT through Instacart, and others offer EBT payments directly on their websites. Examples include Amazon, Walmart, and select regional supermarkets participating in the SNAP Online Purchasing Program.
Which stores accept EBT on Instacart for delivery?
Most retailers that accept EBT on Instacart also allow delivery, but availability varies by state. To confirm which stores accept EBT on Instacart for delivery in your area, open the Instacart app, enter your ZIP code, and look for the “EBT SNAP” label on participating stores.