Amazon accepts SNAP benefits through a program called Amazon Fresh and Whole Foods Market, but only if you live in an may be able to access area and meet specific requirements

You can use your EBT card to buy groceries on Amazon, but the process is different from using it in a physical store. Amazon does not accept EBT cards directly on its main website. Instead, you must shop through Amazon Fresh (Amazon's grocery delivery service) or Whole Foods Market (which Amazon owns), and you need to set up your EBT information in your Amazon account first.

Not all areas have access to this service. Amazon Fresh operates in select cities, and Whole Foods locations vary by region. Before you start, check whether your zip code is covered. If it is not, you will need to shop at a physical grocery store or use another online retailer that accepts EBT in your area.

Key Takeaways

  • You can only use EBT on Amazon Fresh or Whole Foods Market, not on the regular Amazon website or for non-food items.
  • Your state must participate in the SNAP Online Purchasing Pilot, and your specific zip code must be in a service area.
  • You must add your EBT card information to your Amazon account under a separate payment method before you can check out.
  • Minimum order amounts and delivery fees vary by location, and some areas charge a membership fee for Amazon Fresh.

Check if EBT is available in your area

The first step is to find out whether Amazon accepts EBT where you live. Go to Amazon Fresh or Whole Foods Market online and enter your zip code. The website will tell you immediately whether SNAP purchases are available in your location. If you see a message that EBT is not accepted in your area, you cannot use this method, even if Amazon Fresh or Whole Foods delivers to you for other items.

Availability changes over time as Amazon expands the program. If EBT is not available now, check back in a few months. You can also contact your state's SNAP office to ask whether they plan to expand the program to your area.

Add your EBT card to your Amazon account

Once you confirm your area is may be able to access, sign into your Amazon account and go to "Your Account." Look for the payment methods section and select "Add a payment method." Choose the option for EBT or SNAP, not a regular credit or debit card. You will need to enter your EBT card number, expiration date, and the PIN you use at the store.

Amazon will verify your card information but will not charge it at this step. Your EBT card is now linked to your account. You can add multiple payment methods, so you can keep a regular credit card on file as well if you want to buy non-food items.

Shop and place your order

Browse Amazon Fresh or Whole Foods as you normally would. Add may be able to access items to your cart. Not everything in these stores qualifies for SNAP — you can only buy food items meant for home preparation, such as fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, bread, and canned goods. You cannot buy prepared foods, hot items, vitamins, pet food, or household supplies with SNAP benefits.

When you reach checkout, select your EBT card as the payment method. Enter your PIN if prompted. Some orders may have a minimum purchase amount, which varies by location. If your order does not meet the minimum, you will not be able to complete the purchase with EBT alone, though you can add a regular payment method to cover the difference.

Understand delivery fees and membership costs

Amazon Fresh charges delivery fees that vary by location and time of delivery. These fees are separate from your grocery purchase and cannot be paid with EBT — you must use a regular credit or debit card. Some areas require an Amazon Prime membership to use Amazon Fresh, while others do not. Whole Foods does not require a Prime membership, but delivery fees still apply.

Check the specific terms for your zip code before you place an order. The website will show you the delivery fee and any membership requirements before you confirm your purchase.

What happens if your order is declined

If your EBT card is declined at checkout, the most common reasons are that your card has insufficient balance, your PIN is incorrect, or the item you are trying to buy does not may have access to for SNAP. Check your EBT balance through your state's website or by calling the number on the back of your card. If the balance is low, you may need to wait until your next benefit deposit or use a different payment method for part of the order.

If you believe an item should may have access to for SNAP but was rejected, contact Amazon customer service. Some items are borderline — for example, certain prepared foods or items in the deli section — and the rules can vary slightly by state. Amazon can explain why a specific item was flagged.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use EBT on regular Amazon.com?

No. EBT only works on Amazon Fresh and Whole Foods Market. You cannot use it to buy anything else on Amazon's main website, including groceries sold by third-party sellers.

What if I do not have a PIN for my EBT card?

You need a PIN to use EBT online. Call the number on the back of your EBT card or contact your state's SNAP office to set up or reset your PIN. This usually takes a few days.

Can I use someone else's EBT card to order groceries?

No. The EBT card must belong to the person whose name is on the Amazon account. Using another person's card is fraud and can result in losing SNAP benefits.

Do I have to pay delivery fees with EBT?

No. Delivery fees must be paid with a credit or debit card. You can use EBT for the groceries and a regular card for the delivery fee on the same order.

What groceries can I buy with EBT on Amazon?

You can buy fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, dairy, eggs, breads, cereals, snacks, and canned or frozen foods. You cannot buy prepared foods, hot items, alcohol, tobacco, vitamins, medicines, pet food, or household supplies.