Yes, you can use your EBT cash card online at Walmart, but only for certain purchases

Walmart allows you to use your EBT card (also called a SNAP card or food stamp card) to buy groceries online through Walmart.com or the Walmart app. However, the EBT cash portion of your card — the money loaded separately from your food benefits — cannot be used for online purchases at Walmart or anywhere else. The cash portion works only at physical store locations, ATMs, and some in-person retailers. Your food benefits portion can be used online, but your cash benefits cannot.

This is a federal rule, not a Walmart choice. The USDA, which runs the SNAP program, does not allow EBT cash to be spent online anywhere in the country. If you need to spend your cash benefits, you must go to a store in person, use an ATM, or visit a retailer that accepts EBT cash at the register.

Key Takeaways

  • Your EBT food benefits can be used online at Walmart.com and the Walmart app for grocery delivery or pickup.
  • Your EBT cash benefits cannot be used for any online purchases, including at Walmart.
  • EBT cash can only be spent in person at stores, ATMs, or retailers that accept it at checkout.
  • You must have a Walmart.com account and select EBT as your payment method during checkout to use food benefits online.

How to use EBT food benefits online at Walmart

To order groceries online with your EBT food benefits, start by creating or logging into your Walmart.com account. Add items to your cart — only food items will be may be able to access for EBT payment. Non-food items like paper towels, soap, or vitamins cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits, whether online or in store.

At checkout, select your delivery or pickup option. Walmart offers both same-day delivery and scheduled pickup at most locations. When you reach the payment screen, choose EBT as your payment method. You will need to enter your EBT card number, expiration date, and PIN. Walmart will process the payment just as it would at a physical register.

Keep in mind that some Walmart locations do not yet accept EBT online. You can check whether your local Walmart supports this by entering your zip code on Walmart.com — the site will tell you if EBT is an option in your area.

What you cannot buy with EBT online or in person

SNAP benefits cover food you prepare at home, but not prepared foods, hot foods, or non-food items. This rule applies whether you shop online or in a store. You cannot use EBT to buy rotisserie chicken, deli sandwiches, or anything from the hot case. You also cannot buy alcohol, tobacco, vitamins, medicine, pet food, or household supplies.

At Walmart specifically, items like greeting cards, clothing, electronics, and pharmacy items are not may be able to access. The Walmart website flags ineligible items during checkout so you know before you pay. If you accidentally add an ineligible item, you will need to remove it or pay for it separately with another payment method.

Why your EBT cash cannot be used online

Many people receive both SNAP food benefits and TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) cash benefits on the same card. The cash portion is meant to help with expenses like rent, utilities, and transportation. The federal government restricts EBT cash to in-person transactions only for security and fraud prevention reasons.

This means you cannot use the cash portion online at Walmart, Amazon, or any other retailer, even if the retailer accepts EBT food benefits. The two portions of your card are separate in the system, and online merchants can only process the food benefits portion.

Using your EBT cash at Walmart in person

Your EBT cash benefits work like a debit card at Walmart checkout. You can buy anything the store sells — groceries, household items, clothing, or anything else. Tell the cashier you are paying with EBT, insert or swipe your card, and enter your PIN. The transaction processes immediately.

You can also withdraw cash from your EBT card at Walmart's customer service desk or at an ATM. ATM withdrawals may have a small fee depending on your state's program. Check your state's EBT website to see if there are fee-free ATM locations near you.

Delivery and pickup options for EBT online orders

Walmart offers two ways to receive your online grocery order. Same-day delivery is available in many areas and typically arrives within a few hours. Scheduled pickup lets you choose a time to collect your groceries at your local Walmart. Both options accept EBT for the food portion of your order.

Delivery fees and service charges cannot be paid with EBT — you will need to use a separate payment method like a credit card, debit card, or other funds for those costs. Only the actual groceries themselves are covered by your SNAP benefits.

Troubleshooting EBT online at Walmart

If your EBT card is declined online, the most common reason is that your card has expired or been replaced. Check the expiration date on your physical card and make sure you are entering it correctly. Another reason could be insufficient funds — your balance may not cover the total of may be able to access items in your cart.

If you see an error message saying EBT is not available in your area, Walmart has not yet rolled out online EBT acceptance at your location. You can check back periodically, as Walmart continues to expand this service. In the meantime, you can shop in person or contact your local Walmart to ask when online EBT will be available.

If your card is locked or you cannot remember your PIN, contact your state's EBT customer service line. The number is on the back of your card. They can unlock your card, reset your PIN, or check your balance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my EBT cash to pay for delivery fees on Walmart.com?

No. Delivery fees, service charges, and tips must be paid with a separate payment method like a credit or debit card. Only the food items themselves can be purchased with your EBT food benefits.

What happens if I order groceries online but my EBT card is declined at checkout?

Walmart will not complete your order. Check that your card has not expired, that you entered your PIN correctly, and that your balance covers the may be able to access items. If the problem continues, contact your state's EBT customer service line for help.

Can I use my EBT cash to buy groceries online if I do not have food benefits?

No. EBT cash cannot be used online anywhere, regardless of whether you have food benefits. You can only spend cash benefits in person at stores or ATMs.

Does Walmart accept EBT online in all states?

Walmart accepts EBT online in most states, but availability varies by location. Enter your zip code on Walmart.com to see if your area is covered. If not, you can shop in person or check back later.

Can someone else use my EBT card to order groceries online?

Your EBT card is meant for your use only. However, someone in your household can place an order on your behalf if they have access to your card number and PIN. The card itself should not leave your possession.