Shopping online is super convenient, and Walmart makes it easy to get groceries delivered right to your door! If you use food stamps, also known as SNAP benefits, you might be wondering how you can use them to pay for your Walmart online order. This guide will walk you through the process so you can shop with confidence and get your groceries hassle-free. Let’s learn how to do it!
Understanding Eligibility
Before you start shopping, it’s important to know the basics. Not all items on Walmart.com are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. Generally, SNAP covers food items, just like in a physical Walmart store. This includes things like fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, and cereals. Other items like pet food, alcohol, tobacco, and household supplies are usually not covered. Checking the item’s description on the Walmart website is your best bet.
You can also usually tell if an item is eligible during the checkout process. The website will tell you if your food stamps can be used to purchase that item. Always double-check your cart before paying to avoid any surprises.
If you are unsure if an item is eligible or not, there are a few things you can do. You can always visit the “SNAP Eligible Items” section, which is usually found on the Walmart website or app. There is also a list of items on the USDA website which you can use for your reference.
Walmart’s website often shows a clear indicator on each product page if the item can be purchased using SNAP. Look for this symbol to guide your choices.
Setting Up Your Walmart Account
The first step is to make sure you have a Walmart account and that you’ve linked your SNAP card. If you don’t have an account, creating one is easy. You’ll need to provide some basic information, like your name, email address, and a password. Once your account is set up, you’ll need to add your SNAP card information.
To add your SNAP card, follow these steps:
- Log in to your Walmart account.
- Go to “Account.”
- Select “Payment methods” or “Wallet.”
- Click “Add a Payment Method.”
- Choose “EBT/Food Stamps.”
You’ll then be prompted to enter your SNAP card number, expiration date, and the name associated with the card. Make sure you have your card handy, and double-check that you enter the information correctly. It is important to add your card information prior to making a purchase, as this will save you time. This is also the process to add new payment methods, and to delete old ones that you no longer wish to use.
Once you’ve added your SNAP card, the website will securely store your information. You can then use your SNAP benefits to pay for eligible items during checkout. Remember, it is super important to enter all of your information carefully!
Shopping for Eligible Items
Now comes the fun part: shopping! Browse the Walmart website or app, and add the items you want to your cart. Be mindful of the SNAP-eligible items, such as fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, and dairy products. Look for the indicator that shows an item is SNAP-eligible.
When you are adding the items to your cart, make sure you double check the prices to ensure that you are comfortable with the total amount. This will also help you see if you are in your monthly budget for SNAP benefits.
Remember to avoid adding items that are not covered by SNAP, such as alcohol or pet food. You’ll need to pay for these items separately using another payment method.
Here’s a quick table to help you know what’s generally covered by SNAP:
| SNAP Eligible | Not SNAP Eligible |
|---|---|
| Fruits & Vegetables | Alcohol |
| Meat, Poultry, Fish | Pet Food |
| Dairy Products | Household Supplies |
| Cereals | Tobacco |
Checking Out and Paying with SNAP
Once you’ve added all your items to your cart and you’re ready to check out, head to the checkout page. You should see your SNAP card listed as a payment option if you’ve added it previously. Choose your preferred delivery or pickup method. This process is the same as if you are using a different payment method.
In the payment section, select your SNAP card. You may need to enter your PIN to authorize the transaction. Make sure you keep your PIN safe and don’t share it with anyone.
If your order includes both SNAP-eligible and non-eligible items, the system will likely ask you to split your payment. This means you’ll pay for the non-eligible items with another payment method, such as a credit or debit card. This process is easy and Walmart’s website guides you step-by-step.
Here’s a simple breakdown of the checkout process:
- Add items to your cart.
- Go to checkout.
- Choose delivery or pickup.
- Select your SNAP card.
- Enter your PIN (if prompted).
- Pay for non-eligible items (if any).
- Confirm your order.
Delivery and Pickup Options
Walmart offers a couple of ways to get your groceries: delivery and pickup. With delivery, your order will be brought right to your doorstep. With pickup, you’ll drive to the store and a Walmart employee will bring your order out to your car.
When choosing delivery, you will need to select a date and time slot that works for you. There is usually a delivery fee, but it is usually worth the convenience. Make sure to check the fees beforehand.
If you choose pickup, you’ll schedule a pickup time and go to the designated area at the store. A Walmart employee will load your groceries into your car. Both delivery and pickup are great options, and they allow you to shop from the comfort of your home.
To help you decide, here is a quick comparison:
- Delivery: Convenient, delivery fees, time slot needed.
- Pickup: No delivery fee, drive to the store, must be able to pick up at a specific time.
Troubleshooting and Common Issues
Sometimes, things don’t go as planned. If you have trouble using your SNAP card on Walmart.com, don’t worry! There are a few common issues and solutions.
First, double-check that you entered your SNAP card information correctly. Make sure the card number, expiration date, and name are all accurate. Also, ensure that you have enough funds on your card to cover the cost of your SNAP-eligible items.
If you are having trouble, there are a few more things you can do. Contact Walmart customer service. They are usually very helpful and can assist with any issues you might be having. You may also have to call the customer service number on the back of your SNAP card.
If you’re still having trouble, here’s a list of things to check:
- Card Information: Ensure the card details are accurate.
- Funds Availability: Check your SNAP balance.
- Eligible Items: Confirm that the items in your cart are SNAP-eligible.
- Contact Support: Reach out to Walmart or SNAP support for help.
Final Thoughts
Using your food stamps to pay for your groceries on Walmart online is a convenient and easy way to get the food you need. By following these steps, you can successfully shop for SNAP-eligible items, set up your account, and complete your order with confidence. Enjoy the convenience of online shopping and the benefits of your SNAP program! Happy shopping!