Does Instacart take EBT? Yes, and Here are the List of Stores on Instacart That Take Your SNAP Benefits

Does Instacart take EBT? Absolutely! In a move that's making grocery shopping more accessible, Instacart now accepts EBT payments in most U.S. states. This means individuals and families relying on SNAP benefits can enjoy the convenience of online grocery shopping and delivery, all while using their EBT cards. It's a win-win situation: SNAP beneficiaries get greater access to fresh food, and Instacart expands its customer base and contributes to food security initiatives.

Am I Eligible to Use EBT on Instacart?

To use EBT on Instacart, you need to meet a few key criteria:

• Location: You must reside in a U.S. state that participates in the USDA's SNAP Online Purchasing Pilot. Currently, all states except Alaska are included.
• Benefits: You must be a recipient of SNAP benefits and have a valid EBT card.
• Retailer Participation: The retailer you want to shop from on Instacart must accept EBT payments. While the list is growing, not all stores are participating yet.
• Secondary Payment: You need to have a credit or debit card linked to your Instacart account to cover any non-EBT eligible items, delivery fees, or tips.

If you meet these requirements, you should be able to use your EBT card on Instacart for a convenient and accessible grocery shopping experience.

Which States and Retailers Support EBT?

Great news! Instacart accepts EBT in all U.S. states except Alaska.

While EBT is available across the majority of the country, it's important to note that not all retailers on Instacart participate in the program. The list of participating retailers is continuously expanding, but here are some of the major chains that currently accept EBT on Instacart:

• ALDI
• Food Lion
• Price Rite
• Save Mart
• FoodMaxx
• Lucky Supermarkets
• Price Chopper
• Market 32
• Market Bistro
• Stop & Shop
• Giant Food
• Giant Eagle
• Safeway
• Shaw's
• Star Market

It's recommended to check the Instacart app or website for the most up-to-date list of participating retailers in your area. When you're browsing for stores, look for the "EBT SNAP" label to confirm they accept EBT payments.

How to Set Up EBT on Your Instacart Account

Ready to streamline your grocery shopping with EBT on Instacart? Here's a simple, step-by-step guide to get you started:

1. Ensure Eligibility:
   • Double-check that you reside in a participating state (all except Alaska, as of August 2024).
   • Confirm you have a valid EBT card with SNAP benefits.
2. Open Instacart:
   • If you're new, download the Instacart app or visit the website and create an account.
   • Existing users can simply log in.
3. Navigate to Account Settings:
   • App: Tap the "Account" icon at the bottom of your screen, then go to "Settings."
   • Website: Click the three horizontal lines in the upper left corner, then select "Your Account Settings."
4. Add Your EBT Card:
   • Find the "EBT SNAP" section under "Payment Methods."
   • Tap or click "Add EBT SNAP card."
   • Enter your card details: first name, last name, and card number (twice for confirmation).
   • Tap or click "Save."
5. Add a Secondary Payment Method:
   • Instacart requires a credit or debit card to cover non-EBT eligible items, fees, and tips.
   • Add your card information in the same "Payment Methods" section.

You're All Set! Now you can start shopping at participating retailers and enjoy the convenience of using your EBT card for online grocery delivery.

Pro Tips:

• Verify Retailer Participation: Before you fill your cart, make sure your chosen store accepts EBT on Instacart (look for the "EBT SNAP" label).
• Choose EBT at Checkout: During checkout, select EBT as your payment method for eligible items. The app will automatically calculate the split between your EBT card and secondary payment.

Remember, Instacart's EBT integration is still evolving, so stay updated on new features and participating retailers.

Understanding Eligible Items

While Instacart opens up a world of grocery shopping convenience with EBT, it's important to understand that only SNAP-eligible food items can be purchased using your benefits. This aligns with the core purpose of SNAP, which is to help low-income individuals and families access nutritious food.

Generally, EBT on Instacart covers the following:

• Fruits and vegetables: Fresh, frozen, or canned, a wide variety is typically eligible.
• Meat, poultry, and fish: This includes fresh cuts, frozen options, and some canned varieties.
• Dairy products: Milk, cheese, yogurt, and even some plant-based alternatives might be included.
• Bread and cereals: From whole-grain bread to breakfast cereals, these staples are often covered.
• Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages: Think chips, pretzels, crackers, juice, and soda.

Items typically NOT eligible for EBT on Instacart:

• Alcohol: Beer, wine, and liquor are not covered.
• Tobacco products: Cigarettes, cigars, and other tobacco items are excluded.
• Vitamins and supplements: These are generally considered non-food items.
• Hot foods: Prepared hot meals are not covered.
• Non-food items: Household supplies, pet food, and hygiene products are not eligible.

Tips for Identifying Eligible Items:

• Look for the EBT label: Instacart often marks eligible items with an "EBT" or "SNAP" label.
• Check the app settings: Enable the "Show EBT SNAP eligibility by item" setting to see which items qualify as you shop.
• Refer to the USDA guidelines: If you're unsure, the USDA provides detailed information on SNAP-eligible food items.

Remember, if you have any non-EBT eligible items in your cart, you'll need to use a secondary payment method (credit or debit card) to cover those costs along with any applicable fees or tips.

Troubleshooting EBT Issues on Instacart

Even with a streamlined process, you might occasionally encounter hiccups when using EBT on Instacart. Don't worry, we've got your back! Here are common issues and how to tackle them:

1. "EBT Card Declined" Message
   • Check Your Balance: Ensure you have sufficient funds on your EBT card to cover the SNAP-eligible items in your cart.
   • Card Information: Double-check that you've entered your EBT card details correctly in the Instacart app.
   • Contact Your EBT Provider: If your balance is fine and card details are correct, contact your EBT card provider directly. There could be a temporary issue on their end.
2. Retailer Not Accepting EBT
   • Verify Participation: Confirm the retailer you've chosen is currently accepting EBT payments on Instacart.
   • Choose Another Store: If your preferred store isn't participating, try a different one from the list of EBT-accepting retailers.
3. Issues with Eligible Items
   • Review USDA Guidelines: Make sure the items you're trying to purchase are indeed SNAP-eligible.
   • Contact Instacart Support: If you believe an item should be eligible but isn't being accepted, reach out to Instacart customer support for clarification.
4. Technical Glitches
   • Update the App: Ensure you're using the latest version of the Instacart app.
   • Clear Cache and Data: If the app is behaving strangely, try clearing its cache and data (this will log you out, so have your login details handy).
   • Restart Your Device: Sometimes, a simple device restart can resolve minor glitches.

Still Need Help? Contact Instacart Support

• Live Chat: The fastest way to get help is usually through Instacart's live chat feature, accessible within the app or on their website.
• Phone: Call Instacart customer service at 1-888-246-7822.
• Help Center: Visit the Instacart Help Center for detailed articles and FAQs: https://www.instacart.com/help

Remember, patience is key when troubleshooting. If you encounter an issue, take a deep breath and follow these steps. Instacart's customer support team is dedicated to assisting you and ensuring a smooth EBT shopping experience.

Can't Use EBT on Instacart? Explore These Alternative Options

While Instacart is a fantastic option for utilizing EBT benefits for online grocery shopping, there might be times when it's not the best fit. Perhaps your preferred store isn't participating, you're located in Alaska, or you're simply looking for alternatives.

Here are some other services that currently accept EBT for online grocery orders:

1. Amazon:
   • Offers a wide selection of groceries through Amazon Fresh and Whole Foods Market.
   • Accepts EBT in all U.S. states.
   • Free delivery for Prime members on qualifying orders.
2. Walmart:
   • Provides grocery pickup and delivery services.
   • Accepts EBT in select states for pickup orders.
   • Check your local store's availability.
3. BJ's Wholesale Club:
   • Offers online ordering with curbside pickup or same-day delivery.
   • Accepts EBT in select states for pickup orders.
   • Requires a BJ's membership.
4. Aldi:
   • Expanding its partnership with Instacart for EBT acceptance.
   • Also offers curbside pickup in select locations where you can pay with EBT in person.
5. DoorDash:
   • Recently started accepting EBT for grocery delivery from select stores.
   • Look for the SNAP label on stores and products within the DoorDash app.
   • Currently available in limited areas, but expanding.
6. Local Grocery Stores:
   • Many local grocery stores now offer their own online ordering and delivery or pickup services.
   • Check with your favorite local stores to see if they accept EBT for online orders.

Important Considerations When Choosing an Alternative:

• Availability in Your Area: Not all services are available everywhere.
• Delivery or Pickup Options: Some services offer delivery, while others only provide pickup.
• Fees: Check for any additional fees for service or delivery.
• Product Selection: Compare the variety and availability of products between different services.

Remember: Even if a service accepts EBT, you'll still need a secondary payment method (credit or debit card) to cover any non-EBT eligible items, fees, or tips.

Maximizing Your SNAP Benefits with Instacart

Instacart's acceptance of EBT benefits is a fantastic way to make grocery shopping more convenient and accessible. However, just like traditional grocery shopping, it's essential to use smart strategies to maximize your SNAP benefits and get the most out of your budget. Here are some tips to help you shop smart with EBT on Instacart:

1. Plan Your Meals:
   • Before you open the Instacart app, take some time to plan your meals for the week. This will help you create a focused shopping list and avoid impulse purchases.
2. Stick to Your List:
   • Once you have your list, try your best to stick to it. The convenience of online shopping can sometimes lead to adding extra items to your cart that you don't necessarily need.
3. Compare Prices:
   • Instacart allows you to easily compare prices between different brands and products. Take advantage of this feature to find the best deals and stretch your budget further.
4. Look for Sales and Discounts:
   • Keep an eye out for sales, discounts, and special offers on the Instacart app. You can often find great deals on fresh produce, pantry staples, and other essentials.
5. Buy in Bulk (When Possible):
   • If you have the storage space, consider buying certain non-perishable items in bulk. This can often lead to significant savings in the long run.
6. Choose Generic Brands:
   • Generic or store brands are often just as good as name brands but at a lower price. Don't hesitate to try them out and see if you can save some money.
7. Prioritize Fresh Produce:
   • SNAP benefits are designed to encourage healthy eating. Focus on filling your cart with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.
8. Limit Processed Foods:
   • While some processed foods might be eligible for EBT, try to limit them in your cart. Focus on whole, unprocessed foods whenever possible.
9. Avoid Convenience Fees:
   • Instacart might charge service or delivery fees, especially for smaller orders. Consider placing larger orders less frequently to minimize these fees.
10. Utilize Pickup Options (If Available):
    • Some retailers offer free or discounted pickup options on Instacart. If available, this can be a great way to save on delivery fees.

By incorporating these strategies into your Instacart shopping routine, you can maximize your SNAP benefits, make healthier choices, and ensure that your grocery budget goes further.

Frequently Asked Questions