Can You Use an EBT Card on Amazon?

Understanding Electronic Benefits Transfer

Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) is an electronic system used by state welfare departments to issue benefits to eligible individuals. This system primarily facilitates the distribution of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, formerly known as food stamps, allowing recipients to purchase food items. The EBT card functions much like a debit card, enabling a secure and efficient way to access government assistance. As online grocery shopping becomes more common, the integration of EBT into digital platforms has expanded access to nutritious food for many households.

Eligibility and Availability for Online Purchases

EBT cards are widely accepted for eligible purchases on Amazon, specifically for SNAP benefits. This online purchasing option is part of a United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) pilot program aimed at increasing access to groceries. Currently, SNAP EBT benefits are accepted on Amazon in 45 states and the District of Columbia. It is important to note that only SNAP food benefits are typically accepted for online grocery purchases, not cash assistance benefits like Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). While some states allow cash EBT for broader purchases on Amazon, the primary online grocery acceptance is for SNAP.

Setting Up Your EBT Card on Amazon

Before making any purchases, you must first add your EBT card to your Amazon account. Begin by navigating to the “Accounts & Lists” section on the Amazon website or app, and then select “Your Account.”

From there, locate and click on “Payment options” or “Your Payments” to manage your payment methods. Within this section, you will find an option to “Add a payment method” and then specifically “Add an EBT card.”

You will then be prompted to enter your EBT card number, along with the name on the card and its expiration date. After inputting these details, proceed to link the card to your account. The system will verify the information to ensure the EBT account is successfully connected to your Amazon profile. Linking your card is a necessary step before you can begin shopping for eligible items.

Purchasing Eligible Items with EBT

Once your EBT card is successfully linked, you can begin shopping for groceries on Amazon. As you browse, look for items marked with a “SNAP EBT eligible” label near the product’s pricing information. Add your desired eligible items to your shopping cart and proceed to the checkout page. During checkout, select your EBT card as the payment method for SNAP-eligible items.

To authorize the transaction, you will be prompted to enter your EBT Personal Identification Number (PIN). If your order includes items not covered by SNAP or if your EBT balance does not cover the full cost of eligible items, Amazon allows for split payments. You will need to provide an alternative payment method, such as a debit or credit card, to cover any remaining balance or non-eligible charges, including delivery fees, as these are not covered by SNAP benefits.

Understanding Eligible and Ineligible Purchases

SNAP benefits, and by extension EBT cards on Amazon, are intended for specific food items. Eligible purchases generally include fresh fruits and vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, breads and cereals, snacks, non-alcoholic beverages, and seeds and plants that produce food for the household.

There are limitations on what can be purchased with SNAP EBT benefits. Ineligible items include hot foods prepared for immediate consumption, alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, and vitamins or supplements that carry a “Supplement Facts” label. Non-food items such as pet food, cleaning supplies, paper products, household goods, and live animals (excluding shellfish) cannot be purchased using SNAP funds. Shipping and delivery fees for online orders are also not covered by EBT SNAP benefits.