A Complete Guide: Can you use EBT on Instacart?
Suppose you’re among the millions of Americans relying on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to buy groceries. In that case, you may wonder if you can use your EBT card on Instacart.
The answer is yes! In this complete guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to use your EBT card on Instacart, from adding your card to your account to understanding which items are eligible for purchase.
Can you use EBT on Instacart?
Yes, you can use your EBT card on Instacart. However, it’s important to note that not all states or stores participate in the SNAP online purchasing pilot, which allows online EBT purchases.
Before you start, you’ll want to ensure that your state and the stores you want to shop at are part of the program.
What is the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)?
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps, is a federal program that helps low-income individuals and families buy food.
SNAP benefits are distributed via an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, which works like a debit card. SNAP benefits can be used to purchase eligible food items at participating stores.
Participating in Stores and Participating in the SNAP Online Purchasing Pilot
Not all stores or states participate in the SNAP online purchasing pilot allowing online EBT purchases.
However, more and more stores are joining the program every day.
To see if a store in your area accepts EBT payments on Instacart, visit the Instacart website or app and enter your zip code.
If your state participates in the SNAP online purchasing pilot, you must apply for the program to use your EBT card online.
You can apply for the program on your state’s SNAP website or by calling your state’s SNAP hotline.
Not all states cover fees or bottle deposits for EBT purchases, so be sure to check your state’s SNAP rules before you start shopping.
How to Add Your EBT Card to Your Instacart Account
Adding your EBT card to your Instacart account is easy. Here’s how to do it:
- Open the Instacart app and tap on your account settings.
- Select “Payment methods” and then “Add payment method.”
- Choose “EBT SNAP card” as your payment method and enter your card information.
- Once your card is added, you must verify your SNAP online purchasing pilot eligibility. Instacart will ask for your EBT card number and your state of residence to confirm your eligibility.
Using Your EBT Card on Instacart: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you’ve added your EBT card to your Instacart account, it’s time to start shopping. Here’s a step-by-step guide to using your EBT card on Instacart:
- Open the Instacart app and select the store you want to shop at.
- Add items to your cart as you normally would.
- When you’re ready to check out, select “Checkout.”
- Choose “EBT SNAP” as your payment method.
- Select the option to enter your PIN.
- Enter your PIN and select “Submit.”
It’s important to note that you can only pay for orders with a valid EBT SNAP card. You cannot use a credit or debit card to pay for part of your order and use your EBT card for the rest.
What Items Are Eligible for Purchase with EBT SNAP Benefits on Instacart?
Not all items are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. However, there are a wide variety of eligible items, including:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Dairy products
- Bread and cereals
- Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
It’s important to note that EBT SNAP benefits cannot be used to purchase alcohol, tobacco, vitamins, supplements, or hot foods.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts on Using EBT on Instacart
Using your EBT card on Instacart is a convenient way to shop for groceries from the comfort of your own home.
However, ensuring that your state and the stores you want to shop at participate in the SNAP online purchasing pilot is important.
Once you’ve confirmed your eligibility, adding your EBT card to your Instacart account is easy, and you can start shopping immediately.
Remember, not all items on Instacart are eligible for purchase with EBT SNAP benefits, so be sure to double-check before you check out.
With some preparation and knowledge, using your EBT card on Instacart can save you time and hassle while still allowing you to purchase healthy and nutritious food for yourself and your family.