Can I Buy Formula With EBT?

Standard infant formula can generally be purchased using Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) benefits. EBT is the primary method for delivering food assistance, functioning like a debit card for approved food items.

Understanding EBT and Formula Eligibility

EBT commonly refers to benefits provided through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), a federal program designed to help low-income households purchase groceries. Standard infant formula is generally considered an eligible food item under SNAP, meaning it can be bought with EBT benefits at participating retailers. This broad eligibility covers most general-purpose formulas that provide complete nutrition for infants.

SNAP benefits differ from those offered by the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). While WIC also often uses an EBT-like card for benefit distribution, its rules for purchasing formula are typically more specific. WIC benefits are tailored to provide certain nutritious foods, including infant formula, but often restrict purchases to particular brands, types, or sizes, sometimes requiring a medical prescription for specialized formulas.

Both programs aim to support nutritional needs, but their product eligibility and purchase mechanisms differ. SNAP offers broader food item flexibility, while WIC focuses on a prescribed food package. Non-food items such as diapers, wipes, and household supplies are generally not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.

Where to Purchase Formula

Infant formula eligible for EBT (SNAP) can be purchased at a wide range of retail locations. Most grocery stores, supermarkets, and large supercenters, such as Walmart and Target, are authorized to accept EBT payments for food items. Smaller convenience stores and some pharmacies that stock general food items may also accept EBT.

In addition to physical stores, some online retailers, including Walmart and Amazon, and specific online grocery platforms like Thrive Market, have expanded their services to accept EBT for eligible food purchases.

Using Your EBT Card for Formula

Using your EBT card to purchase formula at a store involves a straightforward process similar to using a debit card. Before heading to the checkout, check your EBT balance, which can typically be done through your most recent receipt, online account, or by calling the customer service number on the back of your card. At the checkout, you should separate eligible food items, including formula, from any non-eligible items.

The cashier will then process the eligible items. You will be prompted to swipe or insert your EBT card into the point-of-sale (POS) terminal. After the card is read, you will need to enter your confidential Personal Identification Number (PIN) on the keypad. It is important to keep your PIN secure and never share it verbally with the cashier.

Once your PIN is entered, you will confirm the purchase amount displayed on the terminal. The funds for the eligible items will then be deducted from your EBT account. If the total cost exceeds your EBT balance, or if you have non-eligible items, the cashier will inform you of the remaining balance. This can then be paid using another method, such as cash or a different debit or credit card. Retain your receipt to verify transaction details and monitor your remaining balance.