Today, many beneficiaries can use their Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards not only at physical supermarkets but also through selected online grocery services. This shift is reshaping how low-income families access food, particularly as retailers adapt their systems to accommodate SNAP payments.
The change has not been universal. While some major retailers support both in-store and online EBT transactions, others continue to accept SNAP benefits only at physical checkout counters. Understanding where and how these benefits can be used has become increasingly important for recipients planning their grocery purchases.
Major Retailers Now Allow SNAP Purchases Online and in Stores
Several national grocery chains have integrated EBT payments into both their physical stores and certain online shopping platforms. Walmart is among the most prominent examples, allowing users to pay for eligible groceries in stores as well as through online pickup or delivery orders in many areas.
Amazon has also expanded its participation through services such as Amazon Fresh, enabling SNAP recipients in most states to purchase qualifying grocery items online. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the federal agency that administers SNAP, online purchasing options have been introduced as part of the SNAP Online Purchasing Pilot, which allows approved retailers to accept EBT payments for digital grocery orders.
Other large chains, including Target and ALDI, accept EBT payments at their physical locations and offer some online purchasing options depending on regional availability. According to the USDA, participation in online SNAP purchasing varies by state and retailer, meaning not every location or delivery service supports the feature.
The expansion reflects broader shifts in consumer behavior. Online grocery shopping surged in recent years, and policymakers have increasingly recognized the need to ensure that households relying on food assistance can access the same retail options as other consumers.
Many Retailers Still Limit Use to In-Store Purchases
Despite these developments, a number of well-known grocery chains continue to restrict payments to in-store transactions. Warehouse retailers such as Costco and Sam’s Club accept EBT cards at checkout counters inside their stores but do not currently support online grocery purchases using SNAP benefits. Trader Joe’s follows a similar model. Customers can use EBT cards when paying for eligible food items in person, though the company does not offer online SNAP ordering at this time.
Beyond traditional supermarkets, SNAP benefits are also accepted at a range of smaller retailers. Pharmacies and convenience stores (including CVS, Walgreens, Dollar Tree and 7-Eleven) may allow customers to use EBT cards for eligible food purchases inside their stores. According to USDA program guidelines, SNAP benefits can only be used for approved food items, excluding non-food products and most prepared meals.
Technology is also playing a role in helping recipients navigate these options. Apps such as Propel allow users to check their EBT balances and locate nearby stores that accept SNAP payments. According to information provided by the app’s developers, the platform is designed to simplify benefit management and help users identify participating retailers in their area.
