Shopping for groceries online is super convenient, and it’s even better when you can use your SNAP benefits (that’s what food stamps are officially called!) to pay. If you’re a Walmart shopper, you’re in luck! Walmart.com allows you to use your SNAP benefits to purchase groceries online for pickup or delivery. This guide will walk you through the steps, making it easy to navigate the process. Let’s get started!
Can I Use SNAP Benefits for All Items on Walmart.com?
No, you can’t use your SNAP benefits for all items on Walmart.com. SNAP benefits are designed to help with food costs, so you can only use them to purchase eligible food items. This usually includes things like fresh produce, meat, dairy, bread, cereals, and non-alcoholic beverages. You can’t use SNAP to buy things like diapers, pet food, or household supplies. Think of it like a special grocery store card that only works on certain products.
Creating a Walmart.com Account and Linking Your SNAP Card
Before you can start shopping, you’ll need a Walmart.com account if you don’t already have one. Creating an account is easy and free. Just head to the Walmart website and click on “Account” or “Sign In.” Follow the prompts to create your account using your email address and setting up a password. Once you’re signed up, you’re ready to link your SNAP card.
To link your SNAP card, you’ll need to go to your account settings. Look for an option labeled “Payment methods” or something similar. Here’s a simple guide to help you find it:
- Find the Account icon in the top right of the screen and click on it.
- Select “Account”.
- Select “Payment methods” from the options.
From within “Payment methods”, you will see options to add different forms of payment. You can then add your SNAP card as a payment method. You’ll likely need to enter your card number and the expiration date, just like you would with a credit or debit card. This step is crucial, because it tells Walmart that you want to pay with your benefits.
Remember, it’s important to keep your SNAP card information safe and secure, just like you would any other debit or credit card. Make sure you’re on the official Walmart.com website and not a fake one. Also, check that the website address in your browser’s address bar begins with “https” and that there is a lock symbol next to it.
Shopping for SNAP-Eligible Items on Walmart.com
Once your SNAP card is linked, it’s time to shop! Browse the Walmart.com website and add your desired items to your cart. As you shop, you’ll want to keep an eye out for items that are eligible for SNAP benefits. Walmart will typically indicate SNAP-eligible items with a special tag or icon. This can vary so make sure to double-check if you’re not sure.
Here are some general guidelines of items that are eligible for SNAP benefits. Keep in mind, different states may have slightly different rules about what items are eligible, so it’s always a good idea to check your state’s specific SNAP rules. This is a good guide of things you will see as eligible:
- Fruits and vegetables.
- Meat, poultry, and fish.
- Dairy products.
- Breads and cereals.
- Snack Foods.
- Non-alcoholic beverages.
When you’re adding items to your cart, pay attention to the subtotal. The subtotal will reflect the cost of the items before any taxes or delivery/pickup fees. You can also see a breakdown of your items within the cart. Make sure the items are the ones you want and that the quantities are correct.
Checkout and Payment with SNAP
When you’re finished shopping, proceed to checkout. During checkout, you’ll be prompted to select your payment method. Choose your SNAP card as the primary form of payment. Walmart.com will then process your order. You will likely see the SNAP card listed in a section for payment methods.
It’s important to keep in mind that you may need to split your payment if the total cost of your order exceeds the available balance on your SNAP card. For example, if your order total is $100, and you have only $80 on your SNAP card, you’ll need to pay the remaining $20 with another payment method, like a debit card or credit card. Walmart.com will guide you through this process. Keep in mind you may be able to use a combination of SNAP benefits and another card.
Here’s what might appear in the checkout process:
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Apples | $5.00 |
| Chicken | $10.00 |
| Milk | $4.00 |
| Bread | $3.00 |
| Subtotal (SNAP Eligible) | $22.00 |
| Diapers (Not SNAP Eligible) | $15.00 |
| Order Total | $37.00 |
Remember to review your order details carefully before confirming your purchase. Once you’ve confirmed, you’ll receive an order confirmation with information about when and where to pick up or have your groceries delivered.
Pickup or Delivery and Using Your SNAP Benefits
After you place your order, you’ll need to choose whether you want to pick it up in-store or have it delivered to your home. If you choose pickup, you’ll go to the designated pickup area at your local Walmart. Make sure you bring the identification that Walmart asks for to pick up your order! Typically, this is the ID that matches the name on your account.
If you opt for delivery, the groceries will be brought right to your doorstep! Make sure someone is home to receive the delivery. This is also important to make sure your groceries are kept at the proper temperatures, especially for frozen items.
If you have problems with your order, don’t hesitate to contact Walmart customer service. Walmart’s customer service can help resolve any issues with your order. They can help with a variety of situations, like incorrect items, or if the delivery is running late. Be sure to keep your order number handy when you call.
Keep in mind, with both pickup and delivery, you’ll be prompted to show an ID during the process. Make sure you have what you need to finish receiving your order.
Conclusion
Using SNAP benefits on Walmart.com is a straightforward process that can make your grocery shopping a whole lot easier! By following these steps, you can buy the food you need, whether you’re using the pickup or delivery option. Remember to always double-check the eligibility of items and be mindful of any balance limitations on your SNAP card. Happy shopping!