SNAP Benefits 2025: Millions of Americans depend on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to help afford nutritious meals. As one of the largest retailers in the U.S., Walmart has become a popular shopping destination for SNAP beneficiaries. Understanding which items you can buy with SNAP benefits at Walmart can help you make the most of your assistance while adhering to program rules.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about using SNAP benefits at Walmart in 2025, including eligible items, shopping tips, and frequently asked questions.
SNAP Benefits 2025
| Key Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligible Food Items | Fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, bread, cereals, snacks, seeds, and plants for food production. |
| Ineligible Items | Alcohol, tobacco, vitamins, supplements, hot foods, and non-food items. |
| Walmart SNAP Acceptance | Available for in-store and online purchases, including grocery pickup and delivery. |
| Additional Fees | Delivery fees and other charges cannot be paid with SNAP benefits. |
| More Information | Visit the USDA SNAP Retailer Guide. |
Shopping with SNAP benefits at Walmart offers flexibility and convenience, whether you prefer in-store visits or online orders. By understanding eligible and ineligible items, using Walmart’s tools, and planning your purchases carefully, you can maximize your benefits and ensure your household has access to nutritious, affordable food.
For more information about SNAP benefits and eligible items, visit the USDA SNAP Retailer Guide.
What Are SNAP Benefits?
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides monthly financial assistance to eligible low-income individuals and families to help them purchase food. Benefits are issued through Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards, which work like debit cards and can be used at authorized retailers, including Walmart.
Walmart’s participation in SNAP ensures that beneficiaries can access a wide range of affordable groceries in-store and online, making it easier to plan meals and maintain a healthy diet.
Eligible Food with SNAP Benefits at Walmart
SNAP benefits are designed to cover essential food items that contribute to a healthy diet. Here’s what you can buy:
Fruits and Vegetables
- Fresh, frozen, or canned produce.
- Pre-packaged salad mixes or whole vegetables like carrots and broccoli.
Meat, Poultry, and Fish
- Fresh or frozen cuts of beef, chicken, pork, or fish.
- Processed items like bacon or sausages, as long as they aren’t hot or ready-to-eat.
Dairy Products
- Milk, cheese, yogurt, and cream.
- Non-dairy alternatives like almond or soy milk.
Bread and Cereal
- Pre-packaged bread, rolls, and tortillas.
- Breakfast cereals, oatmeal, and rice.
Snacks and Beverages
- Chips, crackers, and pretzels.
- Non-alcoholic drinks like juice, soda, or bottled water.
Seeds and Plants
- Seeds or plants that produce food for the household, such as tomato plants or herb seeds.
These categories allow for flexibility and variety in your grocery purchases, ensuring you can create balanced and nutritious meals.
Ineligible Items with SNAP Benefits at Walmart
SNAP benefits cannot be used for certain items, including:
- Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco Products: Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes, and related items.
- Vitamins, Medicines, and Supplements: Items labeled with a “Supplement Facts” panel.
- Hot Foods: Foods prepared for immediate consumption, like rotisserie chickens.
- Non-Food Items: Cleaning supplies, paper products, pet food, and personal hygiene items.
Being aware of these restrictions helps avoid confusion at checkout and ensures your benefits are used appropriately.
Shopping with SNAP Benefits at Walmart
In-Store Shopping
Shopping in-store with your SNAP EBT card is straightforward:
- Choose Eligible Items: Select groceries that qualify under SNAP guidelines.
- Checkout: Swipe your EBT card at the register and enter your PIN. Non-eligible items can be paid for using another payment method.
- Split Payments: If you’re buying both eligible and non-eligible items, let the cashier know you’ll use multiple payment methods.
Online Shopping
Walmart makes online shopping accessible for SNAP beneficiaries:
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- Create a Walmart Account: Sign up or log in at Walmart.com.
- Link Your EBT Card: Add your SNAP EBT card as a payment method.
- Shop Eligible Items: Use Walmart’s SNAP-eligible filter to find approved products.
- Checkout: Apply your EBT card at checkout to pay for eligible items. Use another payment method for non-eligible items and additional fees like delivery charges.
Online shopping is particularly convenient for beneficiaries with mobility challenges or limited transportation options.
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Maximizing Your SNAP Benefits
1. Plan Your Meals
- Create a Shopping List: Plan meals for the week and list only the items you need.
- Focus on Staples: Prioritize versatile ingredients like rice, beans, and fresh vegetables.
2. Use Walmart’s Tools
- SNAP-Eligible Filter: Walmart’s website and app allow you to filter products to display only SNAP-eligible items.
- Price Comparison: Compare products to find the best value for your budget.
3. Combine SNAP with Other Programs
If you qualify for SNAP, you may also be eligible for:
- WIC (Women, Infants, and Children): Provides additional benefits for specific food items.
- LIHEAP (Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program): Helps with energy costs, freeing up more of your budget for groceries.
4. Grow Your Own Food
- Use SNAP benefits to purchase seeds and plants for home gardening. This can reduce grocery expenses over time and provide fresh produce.
FAQs On SNAP Benefits 2025
1. Can I use SNAP benefits for Walmart grocery delivery fees?
No, SNAP benefits cannot be used to cover delivery fees or service charges. You’ll need to pay these costs with another payment method.
2. Are all Walmart stores SNAP-eligible?
Yes, all Walmart locations accept SNAP benefits for in-store purchases, and most also support EBT for online orders.
3. How can I check my SNAP balance?
You can check your SNAP balance through your state’s EBT portal, mobile app, or by calling the customer service number on the back of your card.
4. What happens if I accidentally try to buy an ineligible item?
If you select an ineligible item, your EBT card will not cover it. The cashier or online checkout system will prompt you to use another payment method.
5. Can I split my SNAP and non-SNAP purchases?
Yes, Walmart allows split payments at checkout. Eligible items will be charged to your EBT card, and you can use cash, credit, or debit for non-eligible items.
