Grocery stores, farmers markets, and some online retailers accept EBT cards for food purchases

Your EBT card works at any store that displays the SNAP logo — a fork and knife symbol. This includes supermarkets, convenience stores, farmers markets, and some online grocery services. The card only pays for food you can cook or eat at home: fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, bread, cereals, and snacks. It does not work for hot food, alcohol, tobacco, vitamins, or non-food items like soap or paper towels.

Not every store in your neighborhood accepts EBT. Chain supermarkets almost always do. Small corner stores, gas stations, and dollar stores vary — some accept it, others do not. The easiest way to find stores near you is to use the SNAP Retailer Locator on the USDA website or call your state's SNAP office. Many states also have a phone number on the back of your EBT card you can call to ask about specific stores.

Key Takeaways

  • EBT cards work at any store displaying the SNAP logo, which includes most supermarkets, many small grocers, and some farmers markets.
  • You can only buy food items that are raw or ready to eat at home — not hot prepared food, alcohol, or non-food items.
  • The USDA SNAP Retailer Locator tool shows which stores near you accept EBT, updated regularly as stores join or leave the program.
  • Online grocery delivery through Amazon Fresh, Walmart, and some regional services now accepts EBT in most states, though rules vary by location.

How to find SNAP-authorized stores in your area

The USDA maintains a searchable database called the SNAP Retailer Locator. You enter your address or zip code, and it shows every authorized store within a set distance. The list includes the store name, address, phone number, and whether it accepts online SNAP purchases. This tool is updated regularly as stores are added or removed from the program.

If you do not have internet access, call your state's SNAP office — the number is on your EBT card or in your welcome packet. Staff can tell you which stores in your neighborhood accept EBT and whether any have recently joined the program. Some states also text store locations if you text your zip code to a specific number; ask your caseworker or call 211 to learn about your state offers this.

What you can and cannot buy with EBT

SNAP covers food items only. You can buy fruits and vegetables (fresh, frozen, or canned), meat and poultry, fish and seafood, dairy products, breads and cereals, snack foods, non-alcoholic beverages, and seeds or plants that produce food. Some stores stock these items in separate sections; your receipt will show what was paid for with SNAP and what was not.

SNAP does not cover prepared or hot food, even if it is sold in a grocery store deli. Alcohol and tobacco are blocked at the register. Vitamins, medicines, and supplements do not work. Soap, paper products, pet food, and other household items are not covered. If you try to buy something SNAP does not cover, the cashier will ask you to pay for it separately with cash or another card.

Using EBT at farmers markets

Many farmers markets accept EBT through a system called SNAP at the Farmers Market. Vendors at these markets are authorized to take your EBT card. Some markets have a central booth where you swipe your card and receive tokens or vouchers to spend at individual vendor stalls. Others allow vendors to swipe your card directly.

Not every farmers market participates. Before you go, call ahead or check the market's website to confirm they accept SNAP. The USDA Farmers Market Directory lists which markets in your state take EBT. Some states also run matching programs where your SNAP dollars are doubled at farmers markets — for example, if you spend $10 in SNAP benefits, you receive $20 in tokens to spend.

Buying groceries online with EBT

Amazon Fresh, Walmart, and some regional grocery delivery services now accept EBT in most states. The rules vary by state and by retailer. Some services let you order online and pick up at the store; others deliver to your home. You typically need to set up an account, add your EBT card as a payment method, and place an order. The store will charge your EBT card just as it would at checkout.

Not all items available online are SNAP-may be able to access. The website should mark which items you can buy with SNAP. If you order something that is not covered, you will be asked to pay for it with another card or remove it from your order. Delivery fees and service charges are not covered by SNAP — you pay those separately. Check with your state's SNAP office or the retailer's website to see if online ordering is available where you live.

What happens if a store stops accepting EBT

Stores can leave the SNAP program for various reasons: they may lose their license, close, or choose not to participate. When this happens, you will not be able to use your card there. The USDA Retailer Locator is updated regularly, so stores that have left the program will disappear from the list.

If a store you use frequently stops accepting SNAP, you can report it to your state's SNAP office. They track which stores are no longer participating and may investigate if there is a pattern. In the meantime, use the Retailer Locator to find other authorized stores nearby. If you live in a rural area with few options, contact your caseworker — some states have programs to help people in underserved areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my EBT card at any grocery store?

No. Only stores that are authorized by SNAP accept EBT cards. Most large supermarkets do, but many small stores, gas stations, and specialty shops do not. Look for the SNAP logo at the register or use the USDA Retailer Locator to check before you shop.

Can I buy hot food or prepared meals with EBT?

No. SNAP only covers food you prepare yourself at home. Hot food from a deli counter, rotisserie chicken, or prepared salad bars are not covered, even if they are sold in a grocery store. You can buy raw ingredients to cook at home.

Do all farmers markets accept EBT?

No. Some farmers markets participate in SNAP, others do not. Call the market ahead of time or check their website to confirm they accept EBT. The USDA Farmers Market Directory lists participating markets by state.

Can I order groceries online and have them delivered using EBT?

Some retailers now accept EBT for online orders, including Amazon Fresh and Walmart in most states. Rules vary by state and retailer. Check the store's website or call to see if online SNAP ordering is available in your area. Delivery fees are not covered by SNAP.

What do I do if my EBT card is not accepted at a store that says it takes SNAP?

Ask the cashier or manager to check their system — the store may be authorized but the register may have a temporary issue. If the problem continues, contact your state's SNAP office. Stores are required to accept EBT if they are authorized; if one refuses, report it.