Yes, you can use EBT at Target, but only for certain items

Target accepts EBT cards for food purchases through the SNAP program (formerly known as food stamps). However, EBT only covers specific items — the same items it covers at any other grocery store. You cannot use EBT to pay for household goods, clothing, electronics, or other general merchandise that Target sells, even though you're shopping in the same store.

The items you can buy with EBT at Target are called SNAP-may be able to access foods. These include fruits and vegetables, meat and poultry, dairy products, breads and cereals, snack foods like chips and cookies, and beverages like juice and milk. You cannot use EBT for hot or prepared foods, alcohol, tobacco, vitamins, or anything that isn't food meant to be eaten at home.

Target's checkout system automatically separates SNAP-may be able to access items from non-may be able to access ones. When you pay, your EBT card will only be charged for the food items that may have access to. You'll need to pay for everything else with another payment method — a credit card, debit card, or cash.

Key Takeaways

  • Target accepts EBT cards for SNAP-may be able to access food items at all locations that have a grocery section.
  • You can only use EBT for foods meant to be eaten at home, not for household products, clothing, or prepared foods.
  • Target's register will automatically separate may be able to access food items from ineligible items, and you pay for non-food items with another payment method.
  • If you're unsure whether a specific item is SNAP-may be able to access, ask a Target employee or check the USDA's official list before checkout.

Which Target locations accept EBT

Not every Target location accepts EBT. Target stores that have a grocery section — sometimes called a SuperTarget or a store with a food market — accept EBT for SNAP purchases. Smaller Target locations that only sell general merchandise do not process EBT transactions.

You can find out whether your nearest Target accepts EBT by calling the store directly or checking Target's website. When you call, ask specifically if they accept EBT for SNAP food purchases. The store can also tell you which section of the store has SNAP-may be able to access items if you're unfamiliar with the layout.

How to use your EBT card at Target

Using your EBT card at Target works the same way as using it at any other grocery store. Shop for the SNAP-may be able to access foods you need, then go to checkout. When the cashier rings up your items, tell them you're paying with EBT, or simply insert or swipe your card when prompted.

The register will separate your SNAP-may be able to access items from items you cannot buy with EBT. Your EBT balance will be charged only for the may be able to access food items. For any non-may be able to access items in your cart, you'll be asked to pay with a different payment method before you can complete the transaction.

Keep your receipt. It shows what was paid with EBT and what was paid with your other method. This helps you track your SNAP balance and budget for future shopping trips.

Items you can and cannot buy with EBT at Target

The rules for what you can buy with EBT are the same at Target as they are everywhere else. SNAP-may be able to access items include fresh produce, frozen vegetables, canned fruits and vegetables, meat and poultry (fresh, frozen, or canned), fish and seafood, dairy products like milk and cheese, eggs, breads and cereals, rice and pasta, beans and legumes, nuts and seeds, and beverages like milk, juice, and water.

Items you cannot buy with EBT include hot or prepared foods (like rotisserie chicken or deli items ready to eat), alcohol and tobacco, vitamins and medicines, pet food, household supplies like soap and paper towels, clothing, electronics, and anything not meant to be eaten. Some items fall into a gray area — for example, seeds and plants you can eat are may be able to access, but ornamental plants are not. When in doubt, ask the cashier or check with Target staff before you check out.

What happens if you don't have enough EBT balance

If your EBT balance is lower than the cost of your SNAP-may be able to access items, the transaction will be declined for that portion. The register will tell you how much you're short. You can then remove some items from your purchase, or you can pay the difference with another payment method like a debit card or cash.

You can also ask the cashier to tell you your current EBT balance before you start shopping. This helps you know how much you have to spend and avoid the situation of items being declined at checkout. Many EBT cards also let you check your balance online or through a phone number printed on the back of your card.

Using EBT online at Target

Target does not currently allow you to use EBT to pay for online grocery orders through its website or app. You must shop in person at a Target store that accepts EBT. This is a federal rule that applies to all online grocery shopping — SNAP benefits can only be used for in-person purchases at this time.

However, some states are testing pilot programs that may eventually allow online SNAP purchases. Check with your state's SNAP program or Target's website to see if this option has become available in your area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use EBT to buy things like paper towels or cleaning supplies at Target?

No. EBT only covers food meant to be eaten at home. Household supplies, cleaning products, and personal care items are not SNAP-may be able to access, even if you buy them at Target. You'll need to pay for these items with cash, a debit card, or a credit card.

What if Target's register says an item isn't may be able to access, but I think it should be?

Ask the cashier to check with a manager or call the store's customer service line. Some items are borderline, and the register rules can sometimes be incorrect. You can also check the USDA's official SNAP food list online before you shop to know what qualifies. If there's a genuine error, Target can usually override it with manager approval.

Do I need to tell Target I'm using EBT before I shop?

No. You don't need to notify Target in advance. Simply shop, go to checkout, and let the cashier know you're paying with EBT. The register will handle the rest automatically.

Can I use my EBT card for Target's pickup or delivery services?

Target's in-store pickup and delivery services do not currently accept EBT. You must shop in person at a Target location and pay at the register with your physical EBT card. Online grocery shopping with EBT is not yet available through Target.

What if my EBT card is declined at Target?

A declined card usually means your balance is too low, your card has expired, or there's a technical issue. Ask the cashier to try again, or contact your state's SNAP program using the number on the back of your card. They can tell you your current balance and whether your card is active. If the card itself is damaged, you can request a replacement from your state's SNAP office.