Costco is a great place for saving money, and families using EBT through SNAP can take advantage of those deals. However, there are limits on what you can buy with EBT, like non-food or prepared items. Knowing these restrictions will help you get the most from your benefits.
In this guide, we’ll explain what you can and can’t buy with EBT at Costco and offer tips to help you save more while shopping. Let’s get started!
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What are EBT Cards?
Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) is an electronic card-based system that benefits participants of government assistance programs (SNAP and TANF) to pay for their purchases using their EBT cards. SNAP was formerly called “Food Stamps“.
In contrast, TANF is used to give cash benefits to needy families. Through TANF, you can withdraw money from your EBT cash account. EBT cards work the same as prepaid debit cards. According to USDA, the average balance on an EBT card is $230 per recipient.
How Do EBT Cards Work for SNAP Benefits?
Each month, your EBT account is funded to help you buy eligible food items at stores like Costco and Walmart. To use these benefits, you must have an EBT card. Without it, you can’t access SNAP benefits or make purchases.
Although each state may call SNAP differently, such as CalFresh in California, the rules remain the same. Costco accepts EBT in-store, but not for online deliveries.
Costco Policy on EBT Cards
- Accepted In-Store: Costco accepts EBT cards for eligible food items such as meat, dairy, fruits, and vegetables.
- Non-Eligible Items: EBT cannot be used for alcohol, pet food, household supplies, hot prepared foods (e.g., from the food court), or membership fees.
- Membership Required: You need a Costco membership to shop in-store, though you can pay with EBT if shopping with a member.
- No Online/Delivery Use: EBT cards cannot be used for online purchases or grocery delivery at Costco.
Does Costco Accept EBT Cards At All of Its Locations?
Yes. All Costo locations do accept EBT cards. However, there are some restrictions by the USAD on what you can purchase and what you cannot purchase with EBT cards.
How Can I Use an EBT card at Costco?
Using your EBT card at Costco is simple:
- Ensure you have a valid EBT card and that it has been loaded with SNAP benefits.
- Visit your local Costco store.
- Select the eligible food items you wish to purchase.
- Proceed to the checkout counter.
- Inform the cashier that you will be using your EBT card for payment.
- Swipe your EBT card, and the cashier will deduct the eligible amount from your card.
What Items Can You Purchase with EBT Cards at Costco?
USDA doesn’t limit these items. So, you are eligible to buy the following SNAP benefits with your EBT cards:
- Fruits and Vegetables
- Dairy products
- Meat and Poultry
- Plants and Seeds for Gardening
- Bread and Cereals
- Snack Foods
- Carbonated Drinks
What Products Are Restricted with EBT Cards at Costco?
According to USDA, you are not eligible to buy the following items using EBT cards:
- Non-Food Items
- Hot Food from the Costco Food Court
- Pet Foods
- Alcoholic Beverages
- Household Supplies
- Cleaning Supplies
- Live Animals except Shellfish
Is it Necessary to Have a Costco Membership Card to Use EBT?
Yes. You must be a Costco member to use your EBT card at all locations. But if you are not a Costco member, don’t worry. You can still enter Costco using your friend’s or relative’s membership card.
The cashier does not need to match the Costco membership card name with the EBT card. Hence, you can pay for your purchased items using your EBT card.
Another way is to ask any friend or family member to buy a Costco Cash Card for a chosen amount on your behalf. You can quickly repay them by withdrawing cash from your EBT cash account at any ATM.
Can You Use EBT Online at Costco or for Gas?
Costco accepts EBT cards in its physical stores for eligible grocery items but does not accept EBT for online purchases or gas. You can buy essential food items like fruits and vegetables, but items like alcohol, pet food, and ready-to-eat foods from the food court are not covered. While EBT is not accepted for Costco delivery, other retailers like Amazon and Walmart do support EBT for online orders.
For gas, EBT cards cannot be used directly, though you can withdraw cash if you’re using TANF benefits.
How to Maximize Savings with Your EBT Card at Costco?
By applying the following strategies, you can save more money at Costco with your EBT card:
● Shop Smart
Costco offers are economical and trick your brain into buying them. That’s why you should plan wisely. Bulk perishables can lead to waste if not consumed before they expire.
● Plan Your Shopping List
Shop with a list to prevent impulse buying, stay on budget, and remember essentials.
● Compare Prices with Other Retail Stores
Compare Costco prices with other stores for the best EBT benefit savings because Costco items are not necessarily cheaper.
● Utilize Coupons and Discounts
Costco offers great deals and promotions on a variety of items all year long. So, keep checking its seasonal discounts to save extra money.
What are the Future Prospects of EBT and SNAP?
EBT and SNAP are evolving to meet recipient needs and tech advances. Future developments will include contacting to more online and in-store retailers to facilitate rural areas and provide diverse cultural foods. SNAP must adapt to evolving technology and shopping habits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Costco Take EBT Cards?
Yes, Costco does accept EBT cards, making it one of the few wholesale clubs where you can use your SNAP benefits.
Can You Use Your EBT Card For Online Shopping at Costco.com?
Unfortunately, you cannot use your EBT card to purchase items online at Costco’s website. This policy is only applicable to in-store shopping.
Does Costco Take EBT Cards at Its Food Courts?
No, Costco food courts do not accept EBT for prepared foods due to SNAP guidelines. However, you can pay for hot food using an EBT cash account.
Does Costco Instacart accept EBT?
Costco accepts EBT for in-store purchases of eligible groceries but does not accept EBT for online shopping, gas, or food court items.
Are there any limitations on what I can buy with EBT at Costco?
Yes, EBT can only be used for SNAP-eligible items like groceries (e.g., fruits, vegetables, and dairy). You cannot purchase non-food items or prepared foods.
Can I use EBT to buy rotisserie chickens or hot dogs at the Costco food court?
No, EBT cannot be used to buy hot or prepared foods like rotisserie chickens or hot dogs at Costco.
What if I want to use both EBT and another payment method at Costco?
You can split your payment between EBT and another method, like cash or credit, to cover non-eligible items.
The Bottom Line
Yes, Costco accepts EBT, but only for eligible items like groceries. USDA restrictions mean certain items, such as non-food items and prepared meals, cannot be purchased with EBT. The Costco website and food court also do not accept EBT. To maximize your SNAP benefits, plan ahead, create a shopping list, and stay informed about future updates to EBT and SNAP policies.