Grocery shopping can be a real hassle, right? Especially when you’re trying to juggle school, activities, and maybe even a part-time job. Instacart is a super convenient service that lets you order groceries online and have them delivered to your door. But what if you use EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) cards, also known as food stamps? Does Instacart accept EBT? Well, the answer isn’t always straightforward, but let’s dive into which stores accept EBT on Instacart and how it all works.
Stores That Welcome EBT on Instacart
So, which stores are actually part of the EBT-Instacart party? Well, the good news is that it’s becoming more common! Here’s the deal: Instacart partners with specific grocery stores that have been approved by the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) to accept EBT for online purchases. This means you can’t just use your EBT card at *any* store on Instacart. You’re limited to the stores that have made the necessary arrangements.
The stores that accept EBT on Instacart can change, so it’s a good idea to double-check. You’ll typically find the ones that work with EBT near you listed on the Instacart app or website. Check to make sure the stores are in your area. These stores often include some major grocery chains, but availability varies depending on your location. Also, remember that even if a store is listed on Instacart, not *every* item in the store might be eligible for EBT purchase.
How do you know if a store accepts EBT? When you’re browsing the Instacart app or website, look for a little EBT symbol or some text indicating that EBT is accepted. If you don’t see that, the store probably doesn’t take EBT. If you’re still unsure, you can try adding items to your cart and proceeding to checkout. Instacart will usually let you know if you can use your EBT card before you confirm your order.
It’s important to be aware that the EBT card can be used to purchase SNAP-eligible (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) groceries only. Non-food items like household supplies, alcohol, tobacco, and pet food are not covered by SNAP benefits and cannot be paid for using EBT.
Setting Up Your EBT Card on Instacart
Okay, you’ve found a store that takes EBT. Awesome! Now, how do you actually pay with your card? The process is pretty easy, but it’s a little different than using a regular debit or credit card. First, you’ll need to have an Instacart account and make sure you have the Instacart app or website. Next, you add your EBT card information to your Instacart profile. You’ll also need a debit card to pay for things that aren’t EBT-eligible.
Once you have an Instacart account and you’ve chosen a store that accepts EBT, you can start shopping. But before you begin, you need to properly link your EBT card to your Instacart account. Don’t worry; it’s not too difficult. Here’s how you can usually do it:
- Go to your account settings on the Instacart app or website.
- Look for the “Payment” or “EBT” section.
- Enter your EBT card number, expiration date, and the associated zip code.
- You might be asked to enter the name on your EBT card as well.
- Instacart will then verify your EBT information.
When you check out, Instacart will automatically sort your order. It will separate the items eligible for EBT from the items that are not. You’ll use your EBT card to pay for the food items. For any non-eligible items or fees like delivery or tips, you’ll have to use a separate form of payment, such as a debit card or credit card.
Just a heads-up, sometimes the payment process can be a little tricky. Make sure you have a backup payment method on hand, just in case there are any issues with your EBT card. If you run into any problems during checkout, don’t hesitate to contact Instacart’s customer service for help.
Items That Are Eligible For EBT
Not everything in the grocery store can be bought using your EBT card. EBT is designed specifically for purchasing food, so some items are eligible, while others are not. Generally, SNAP benefits cover the cost of most foods intended for human consumption, which means many food items will work.
Here’s a quick rundown of what you can typically buy with EBT:
- Fruits and vegetables (fresh, frozen, canned)
- Meat, poultry, and fish (fresh, frozen)
- Dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt)
- Breads and cereals
- Snack foods
- Non-alcoholic beverages
Now, here are some things that AREN’T eligible for EBT purchases:
- Alcoholic beverages
- Tobacco products
- Vitamins and supplements
- Non-food items like paper towels, diapers, or cleaning supplies
- Prepared foods (like hot meals at a deli)
Remember, each store has its own specific rules. It’s always best to double-check the item descriptions on Instacart or to ask a customer service representative if you’re unsure. Sometimes, it can be a little unclear whether something is eligible. If in doubt, it’s always better to ask! If you buy something with EBT and it’s not allowed, it may cause you to not be able to use your EBT card until you have a new card.
Dealing with Delivery Fees and Tips
So, you’ve got your groceries picked out and are ready to check out. But wait! There are delivery fees and tips to consider. When you use Instacart, you’ll probably have to pay these extras, and it’s important to know how this works with your EBT card.
Since EBT covers the cost of food only, it cannot be used to pay for delivery fees, service fees, or tips for your shopper. This means you’ll have to use another form of payment for these extra costs. Typically, you will use your debit card or credit card to cover these fees.
Here’s a breakdown:
| Expense | Payment Method |
|---|---|
| Eligible food items | EBT card |
| Delivery fees | Debit card or credit card |
| Service fees | Debit card or credit card |
| Tips for the shopper | Debit card or credit card |
When you’re checking out, the Instacart app will usually separate the costs. You’ll see the amount for your EBT-eligible items and the amount for the non-eligible fees. You’ll use your EBT card for the food and your other payment method for the fees. It’s always a good idea to make sure you have enough funds on both cards.
Finding Stores Near You That Accept EBT
The availability of EBT-accepting stores on Instacart varies a lot. It depends on where you live! So, how do you find out which stores near you take EBT? It takes a little bit of detective work, but it’s generally pretty straightforward.
Here’s how to find EBT-accepting stores in your area on Instacart:
- Open the Instacart app or visit the Instacart website.
- Enter your delivery address or zip code. This is how Instacart will determine which stores are available to you.
- Look for stores that have an EBT symbol or a note indicating they accept EBT.
- Browse the stores. Many stores that take EBT will highlight this on their main page.
- Once you’ve found a store, start adding items to your cart to make sure they accept EBT.
If you’re not sure, a quick search on Google for “Instacart stores accepting EBT near me” can also be helpful. You can also ask customer service representatives at your local grocery stores if they offer Instacart deliveries using EBT. They should be able to tell you if they accept EBT payments for online orders.
If your local stores don’t accept EBT, don’t worry! Check back later. Instacart is always working to expand its EBT offerings. Check with the government about your ability to get other food assistance, like the WIC program.
Tips and Tricks for Using EBT on Instacart
Using EBT on Instacart can be super convenient. To make the most of it, there are a few tips and tricks that can help you shop smarter and more efficiently. Here’s some advice to keep in mind:
First, make sure you know your EBT balance. Check the balance on your card before you start shopping. This helps you avoid any surprises at checkout! Many states have websites or apps where you can check your EBT balance, or you can call the phone number on the back of your EBT card. That way, you know exactly how much you have to spend.
- Plan your shopping list. Create a shopping list before you start ordering. This will help you focus on what you need and avoid impulse buys. This can also help you keep your order within your EBT budget.
- Watch for sales and discounts. Look for sales and discounts on Instacart. You can often find great deals on SNAP-eligible items.
- Check for store promotions. Some stores may offer special promotions or discounts for Instacart users. This can help you save money!
- Double-check item eligibility. Make sure the items you are buying are EBT eligible.
Finally, don’t forget to tip your shopper! Although you can’t use your EBT card for the tip, it’s a good way to show your appreciation for their hard work and it is customary to give 15% of your bill, or more, depending on your experience.
Possible Issues and How to Resolve Them
Using EBT on Instacart is usually smooth sailing, but sometimes, you might run into a hiccup. Don’t worry! Most problems can be resolved easily. If you have trouble with your EBT order, you can always contact Instacart’s customer support for help. There are a few common issues you might experience, and here’s how to handle them.
One common problem is payment issues. Sometimes, your EBT card might be declined. Here’s why this might happen:
- Insufficient funds. You don’t have enough money on your EBT card to cover the purchase. Make sure you know your balance.
- Incorrect card information. You might have entered your EBT card number, expiration date, or zip code incorrectly.
- Technical problems. There might be a technical issue with Instacart’s or the payment processor’s system.
If your EBT card is declined, double-check your card information and balance. If everything looks correct, contact Instacart’s customer support for help. Sometimes, it could be that the EBT card needs to be re-linked to your account or there is a temporary issue. Another issue could be that an item is not covered with EBT, like paper towels. Try to resolve the issue quickly so you can finish shopping. Keep in mind, your shopper is waiting and the groceries could be delayed if you don’t respond.
Another possible issue is not being able to use EBT at all on Instacart. Instacart is always working to make EBT available at more stores, so if you don’t see EBT as an option, check back later. You can also contact Instacart customer support to ask about EBT availability in your area.
Conclusion
So, there you have it! Instacart can be a helpful way to get your groceries delivered, and now you have a better understanding of which stores accept EBT on Instacart. While not all stores currently take EBT, the list is growing, and the process is becoming easier. Remember to check the app for participating stores in your area, be aware of what’s eligible for EBT, and have a backup payment method ready for fees and tips. With a little planning and these tips, you can make shopping for groceries on Instacart a breeze using your EBT card! Happy shopping!