Grocery shopping can be a real chore, right? Especially when you’re trying to stick to a budget. Good news! Instacart, the app that delivers groceries right to your door, has made it easier to use your EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) card. If you’re not familiar, EBT is like a debit card that helps people buy groceries. But, not every store on Instacart accepts EBT. Let’s dive into which ones do and how it all works.
Which Major Grocery Chains Accept EBT on Instacart?
So, the big question: which stores let you use your EBT card on Instacart? Well, it’s a bit of a mixed bag, as not all stores are on board. But don’t worry, there are definitely some popular ones that are! Some of the big players that generally accept EBT through Instacart include stores like Aldi, and ShopRite. You can usually find this information directly within the Instacart app or website. The specific stores that work with EBT can also vary depending on your location, so it is important to check for your area.
How to Tell if a Store Accepts EBT
Figuring out if a store takes EBT on Instacart is pretty straightforward. The Instacart app and website have tools to help. First, you’ll need to put in your address. This is how Instacart knows what stores deliver to your area. Then, you can browse the stores available to you. Stores that accept EBT usually have a special badge or icon indicating that you can use your benefits there.
Another way is to simply start shopping. When you’re ready to check out, the app will tell you which payment methods are accepted. If EBT is an option, you’ll see it listed as one of the payment choices. Keep in mind that not everything a store sells might be EBT-eligible, like some non-food items. Always look for the EBT logo to confirm this.
What about the things that are not allowed? There are certain products you can’t buy with EBT.
- Alcoholic beverages
- Tobacco products
- Vitamins and supplements
- Pet food
- Household supplies
This is why you need to carefully select your items. Instacart is pretty good at flagging these items, but it’s a good idea to double-check. You can always call the store or check the store’s website if you’re unsure.
The Instacart App: Your EBT Shopping Buddy
Setting Up Your Account:
To use EBT on Instacart, you’ll first need to set up your account. This means creating a profile and adding your payment information. When you’re adding your EBT card, you’ll enter the card number and the expiration date, just like with a regular debit card. Instacart will then verify your card to make sure it’s valid.
Be aware, that sometimes, there can be a slight delay in getting your EBT card set up and working. This can be due to Instacart processing the payment details. If you run into any problems, Instacart has a customer service team that can help you get things straightened out, usually through their website or the app.
Once your EBT card is set up, it’s ready to go! You can start shopping from any eligible store in your area. Make sure to check the store’s policies to be certain it accepts EBT. Once you’ve chosen all your groceries, go to checkout. Make sure to apply your EBT card when you are about to pay for your groceries.
When it comes to setting up your account, here is a quick guide:
- Download the Instacart app or visit the website.
- Create an account or sign in.
- Go to your account settings.
- Add your EBT card information.
- Verify your card.
EBT-Eligible Items: What Can You Buy?
Okay, so you know you can use your EBT card, but what exactly can you buy with it? The rules are pretty straightforward. EBT cards are designed for buying food, but there are some limitations. Generally, you can use your EBT card to buy most food items that are meant for human consumption. This means things like fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy products, bread, and other groceries are usually a-okay.
Keep in mind that there are some items that aren’t EBT-eligible. These usually include things like prepared foods, alcohol, and non-food items. This means you can’t use your EBT to buy a microwave dinner, a bottle of wine, or paper towels, although you can still use other payment methods to buy these. This means that you might have to have more than one form of payment available at checkout.
Here’s a list of some common eligible items:
| Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Fruits & Vegetables | Apples, bananas, carrots, lettuce |
| Meats & Seafood | Chicken, beef, fish |
| Dairy & Eggs | Milk, cheese, eggs |
It’s always a good idea to double-check the specific store’s policies, but that’s the general idea.
Using EBT and Paying the Delivery Fee
One tricky part is figuring out how to pay for the Instacart fees. While you can use your EBT card for eligible groceries, the delivery fees, service fees, and any tips you might give the shopper usually need to be paid with a different payment method. This usually means using a credit card, debit card, or sometimes even a payment app. Always be prepared to have another form of payment available to finalize your order.
Instacart does not allow EBT to pay for all of the services they provide. Therefore you must use another form of payment to cover these extra costs. The app will clearly indicate which parts of your order can be paid for with EBT and which need another payment method. At checkout, you’ll be able to split your payment between your EBT card and another payment method.
It is important to remember that the delivery fees are usually separate from the cost of your groceries. This means you will be paying two separate transactions when using your EBT on Instacart. To avoid any confusion, make sure you understand which card is paying for which items when you get to checkout. The breakdown of costs can be seen on the final order details.
Here are a few important things to keep in mind:
- EBT covers groceries, not fees.
- You’ll need a separate payment method for fees and tips.
- The app shows you how to split your payment.
Tips and Tricks for Shopping with EBT on Instacart
Want to make the most of shopping with EBT on Instacart? There are a few things you can do to make the process easier. First, plan your shopping trip. Make a list of what you need and stick to it. This can help you avoid buying non-eligible items or going over your budget.
Another tip is to check for deals and discounts. Instacart often has sales and promotions that can help you save money. Also, look out for digital coupons you can clip and apply to your order. Many stores also have their own rewards programs, so make sure to add your loyalty cards to your Instacart account if you have one.
The biggest thing to remember is to double-check everything. Double-check that the store accepts EBT, that your items are eligible, and that you understand how to split your payments. Also, always review your order before you place it. This will help you catch any errors and make sure you get exactly what you need. You can often edit your order before it is picked up.
Here are some additional shopping tips:
- Plan your meals and make a shopping list.
- Use coupons and look for deals.
- Add your loyalty cards for extra savings.
- Review your order before checkout.
Troubleshooting and Customer Support
Even though Instacart tries to make everything simple, sometimes things go wrong. If you have any problems, there’s help available. If your EBT card isn’t working, double-check that you’ve entered your card information correctly. Make sure the card hasn’t expired, and that you have enough funds on your EBT card to cover the eligible items.
If you have other issues, the Instacart customer service is there to assist. You can reach out to them through the Instacart app or website. They can help you with payment issues, order errors, and any other concerns you have. Also, you can check the FAQ section. It can sometimes address issues that you can fix without contacting customer service.
Make sure to have your order details and any relevant information ready when you contact customer service. Customer service agents will usually ask for your order number. Having the right information ready can make it easier for them to find your order and resolve any issues quickly. Just like any customer service, be polite and patient.
If you run into any issues with your order, here are some things you should do:
- Double-check your card information.
- Check the FAQ on the website.
- Contact Instacart’s customer support.
Conclusion
In short, using your EBT card on Instacart is a great way to get your groceries delivered, but it’s important to know the rules. Remember to check if the store accepts EBT, and understand which items are eligible. You’ll also need a different payment method for fees and tips. By following these tips, you can shop easily and effectively using your EBT card on Instacart. Happy shopping!