Can I Use My SNAP EBT Card on Amazon?

One common question that arises is whether Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits can be utilized for online grocery shopping, specifically on platforms like Amazon. The answer is yes; SNAP Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards can be used to purchase eligible food items on Amazon in participating regions across the United States. This federal program provides nutrition assistance to supplement the food budget of eligible low-income individuals and families, helping them access healthy food options. The EBT system functions similarly to a debit card, allowing participants to pay for groceries electronically at authorized retailers.

Eligibility and Enrollment for Online SNAP Purchases

Using SNAP EBT benefits for online purchases on Amazon requires meeting specific criteria. An individual must be an active recipient of SNAP benefits with a valid EBT card. Amazon accepts SNAP EBT in nearly every U.S. state and the District of Columbia, making this option widely available to over 99% of SNAP households. Users should confirm their state’s participation through Amazon’s dedicated SNAP page.

To facilitate online purchases, a user needs an active Amazon account. If an account does not exist, it can be easily created. The next step involves linking the EBT card to the Amazon account in the account settings. Users are prompted to enter their EBT card number, name on the card, and its expiration date. This process ensures the EBT account is connected to the Amazon profile for use of benefits.

Eligible and Ineligible Items

The guidelines for what can be purchased with SNAP EBT on Amazon align with the broader federal regulations governing the SNAP program. SNAP benefits are intended for food items for home consumption and preparation. This includes a wide array of groceries such as fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, breads, cereals, and non-alcoholic beverages. Items like coffee pods, energy drinks, and even certain emergency food kits are also eligible, provided they are for human consumption.

Conversely, many items available on Amazon are not eligible for purchase with SNAP EBT. These include hot foods prepared for immediate consumption, alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, and non-food items. Household supplies, cleaning products, pet food, cosmetics, hygiene products, medicines, and vitamins or supplements cannot be bought using SNAP benefits. Only items sold and shipped by Amazon, Amazon Fresh, or Whole Foods Market are eligible for SNAP EBT payment; items from third-party sellers are not covered. Eligible items are clearly marked with a “SNAP EBT eligible” label, helping shoppers identify what can be purchased with their benefits.

Completing a Purchase with SNAP EBT on Amazon

After linking the EBT card and selecting eligible items, checkout requires specific steps. During the checkout process, the EBT card must be chosen as the payment method for eligible items. The system requires the entry of the EBT card’s Personal Identification Number (PIN) to authorize the transaction. This security measure is consistent with in-store EBT purchases.

Orders that include both SNAP-eligible and ineligible items, or those exceeding the available EBT balance, will require a split payment. Amazon’s system facilitates this by applying the EBT funds to the eligible food items first. Any remaining balance for non-eligible items, or if the EBT funds are insufficient, must then be covered by an alternative payment method, such as a debit card, credit card, or Amazon gift card.

Delivery fees, shipping charges, and tips cannot be paid with SNAP EBT benefits. These additional costs must be covered by a separate payment method. Amazon Fresh offers free delivery for SNAP EBT customers on orders exceeding a certain minimum, $35 or more, while smaller orders may incur a fee that requires an alternative payment. Some customers may also opt for a discounted grocery delivery subscription, which is available for EBT cardholders at a reduced monthly rate, around $4.99.