Can You Use SNAP on Instacart, Walmart Pickup, or Amazon in 2025?

Using SNAP benefits is no longer just about shopping in-store with a plastic EBT card. In 2025, more people than ever are asking: Can I use my SNAP benefits online? Whether you’re juggling work, caring for kids, or avoiding the hassle of crowded stores, being able to order groceries through platforms like Instacart, Walmart Pickup, or Amazon could be a game-changer. But while the convenience is real, the rules and availability can still be confusing. Let’s break it down—here’s what SNAP recipients need to know about shopping online this year.

1. Yes, You Can Use SNAP on Amazon in 2025—But Not for Everything

Amazon continues to be one of the biggest platforms that accepts SNAP benefits for online purchases. You can use your EBT card to shop for SNAP-eligible groceries, including pantry staples, fresh produce, and shelf-stable items. However, you can’t use SNAP to cover delivery fees, Amazon Prime membership, or non-food items like paper towels or vitamins. The good news? Amazon offers a discounted Prime membership for EBT cardholders, which can help save on delivery if you shop frequently. Just be sure to double-check your cart before checkout to avoid accidentally adding ineligible items.

2. Walmart Pickup Accepts SNAP—And It’s Expanding

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Walmart has made major strides in making SNAP-friendly grocery shopping more accessible. In 2025, you can use your SNAP benefits for both curbside pickup and home delivery in many areas. Simply place your order through the Walmart app or website, choose EBT as your payment method, and pay any non-covered fees (like delivery charges) with a credit or debit card. Walmart continues to expand this service, but availability can still vary by zip code. It’s best to check online or call your local store to confirm.

3. Instacart Works with SNAP—But Only with Specific Retailers

Instacart accepts SNAP benefits, but there’s a catch—it only works with approved partner stores. In 2025, major chains like ALDI, Price Chopper, Publix, and select local grocers will participate in the SNAP Online Purchasing Pilot via Instacart. When checking out, you’ll have the option to add your EBT card and apply it to eligible items. Like other services, SNAP can’t be used for delivery fees, tips, or certain restricted products. To make the most of it, filter your search to SNAP-eligible items and monitor your total carefully before placing an order.

4. What You Can and Can’t Buy With SNAP Online

SNAP has always had strict guidelines for eligible items, and that doesn’t change online. You can use SNAP benefits to buy fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, bread, snacks, and non-alcoholic beverages. However, items like hot prepared meals, vitamins, cleaning products, alcohol, or tobacco are off-limits—even online. Many platforms label EBT-eligible items clearly, but not all of them do, so it’s worth double-checking. If an item isn’t covered, you’ll be prompted to pay the remaining balance with another form of payment at checkout.

5. Delivery Fees Are Still a Barrier for Some

While being able to shop online is helpful, delivery fees are one major downside for SNAP recipients. SNAP benefits cannot be used to pay for delivery, service charges, or tips, which can be discouraging for those on tight budgets. Some platforms like Amazon Fresh or Walmart+ offer reduced or free delivery with a subscription, but that also costs money. Advocates are still pushing for legislation that would allow SNAP to cover delivery costs, but that change hasn’t happened yet. For now, pickup is often the best budget-friendly option.

6. Mobile Apps Are Making EBT More User-Friendly

The rise of mobile apps is making it easier to track and manage SNAP benefits while shopping online. Instacart, Walmart, and Amazon all let you link your EBT card directly through their apps, check eligibility instantly, and split payment methods when needed. Some state agencies also offer apps to monitor your EBT balance in real-time. These tools make the online shopping experience smoother and reduce the guesswork at checkout. If you haven’t downloaded your state’s EBT app yet, it’s worth checking out for better control and convenience.

Online SNAP Shopping Is Getting Better—But It’s Not Perfect Yet

In 2025, shopping online with SNAP benefits is easier and more common than ever—but not without its frustrations. Limited delivery coverage, service fees, and inconsistent retailer participation still leave some households out. Still, the progress made in recent years is undeniable, and it offers real relief for busy families, elderly shoppers, or anyone with limited transportation. With more states and platforms joining the SNAP Online Purchasing Pilot, things are only expected to improve. Until then, knowing your options is key to getting the most out of your benefits.

Have you tried using your SNAP benefits online through Instacart, Walmart, or Amazon? Share your experience in the comments—others might learn from it!

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