This post will highlight 8 surprising places you can use SNAP EBT. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or Food Stamps, provides valuable assistance to individuals and families in need. While most people are aware that SNAP benefits can be used at grocery stores, there are actually many surprising places where you can use your SNAP EBT card. In this post, we’ll explore eight of these unexpected options, helping you make the most of your SNAP benefits.
Surprising Places You Can Use SNAP EBT
Here are the 8 surprising places you can use SNAP EBT Benefits:
1. Amazon
Amazon, the e-commerce giant, has made it easier than ever to use SNAP benefits to purchase groceries.
In almost every state (excluding Alaska), SNAP recipients can shop for eligible food items on Amazon.
Look for items marked as “SNAP EBT eligible” to ensure they qualify.
While there may be delivery or service fees, you can still use your EBT card for the eligible items and cover any additional charges with an alternative payment method.
Additionally, if you’re a SNAP beneficiary, on Medicaid, or receive other government benefits, you can enjoy a 50% discount on an Amazon Prime membership, reducing your monthly fee from $14.99 to just $6.99, making it a cost-effective option for grocery shopping.
2. Farmers’ Markets
Support local farmers and enjoy fresh produce by using your SNAP benefits at participating farmers’ markets.
These markets often accept EBT cards, allowing recipients to purchase not only fruits and vegetables but also seeds and edible plants.
The USDA Food and Nutrition Service is actively working to expand SNAP participation in farmers’ markets, so check for local options near you.
3. Warehouse Clubs
Warehouse clubs like Costco, BJ’s, and Sam’s Club are known for helping households save money by buying in bulk.
If you’re a member of one of these clubs, you can use your EBT card to purchase food and other eligible items.
Shopping at warehouse clubs can stretch your SNAP benefits further and reduce the number of trips you need to make to the store.
4. Instacart
Whether you prefer grocery delivery or convenient in-store pickup, Instacart is a flexible option that accepts SNAP benefits.
Simply choose a store that supports SNAP payments and shop away.
Plus, for a limited time, Instacart is waiving delivery and pickup fees for SNAP beneficiaries on orders over $35, making it even more affordable and convenient.
5. DoorDash & Uber Eats
While primarily known for restaurant delivery, DoorDash and Uber Eats have also stepped into the grocery delivery game.
Starting in 2024, Uber Eats will allow users to pay for groceries using SNAP and EBT benefits through its app.
Meanwhile, DoorDash has also ventured into online grocery shopping, providing SNAP recipients with more options for food access.
6. Gas Stations
Believe it or not, some gas stations and convenience stores accept SNAP benefits for eligible food items.
While not all retailers participate, this option can be a lifesaver if you live in a rural area with limited access to traditional grocery stores.
While these stores may not offer the best prices, they often carry dairy products and pantry staples, making them a convenient choice in a pinch.
Prominent gas stations taking EBT include Circle K and Kwik Trip.
7. Convenience Stores
In some areas, convenience stores are part of the SNAP program and accept EBT cards for eligible food items.
While you may find a variety of sodas and snacks, many of these stores also carry essential items like dairy products and pantry staples, ensuring you can grab necessities when needed.
Prominent convenience stores taking EBT include 7-Eleven and Wawa.
8. Restaurants
Surprisingly, in some states, SNAP recipients can use their benefits to purchase prepared meals at certain restaurants.
This option is available for individuals aged 60 or older, those with disabilities, or those experiencing homelessness.
Participating states include Arizona, California, Illinois, Maryland, Michigan, Rhode Island, and Virginia, with New York State pending activation.
This program aims to provide food access to vulnerable populations.
Before heading out to any of these locations, it’s important to understand that SNAP benefits can’t be used for heated, hot, or prepared cold foods.
However, many other food and non-alcoholic beverage items are eligible for purchase.
Summary – How to Use EBT on DoorDash
We hope this post on surprising places you can use SNAP EBTÂ was helpful.
Questions?
If you have further questions about California SNAP or EBT Cards, please let us know in the comments section below.
Also, be sure to check out our other articles about California SNAP and EBT, including: