If you receive government assistance, you might be wondering how you can use your benefits for online shopping to make life a little easier. Amazon has made significant strides in accepting certain forms of electronic benefits, but it’s important to know exactly what is and isn’t covered. The rules can be a bit confusing, especially when it comes to the difference between your EBT card’s two functions.
Let’s clear up the confusion about using your benefits on one of the world’s largest online retailers. Knowing the details can help you plan your grocery shopping and manage your finances more effectively from the comfort of your home.
EBT Card Benefits: SNAP vs. Cash
First, it’s helpful to know that your EBT card works like a debit card with two separate accounts. The first is for SNAP benefits (formerly known as food stamps), which are funds specifically for purchasing eligible food items. The second is for cash benefits, which are funds from programs like Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). This distinction is the key to understanding what you can do on Amazon.
What You Can Buy with SNAP on Amazon
Amazon does participate in the SNAP Online Purchasing Pilot. This means you can use your SNAP EBT benefits to buy eligible food items on Amazon.com and at Amazon Fresh and Whole Foods Market. This includes a wide variety of groceries like fresh produce, dairy products, breads, cereals, and meats. It’s a convenient way to get your groceries delivered or ready for pickup.
The Important Rule About EBT Cash
Here is the crucial part: You cannot use EBT cash benefits directly on Amazon. While you can use your SNAP food benefits for eligible groceries, the platform does not accept cash benefits from your EBT card for any purchases. This means you cannot use cash benefits to pay for Amazon’s delivery fees, a Prime membership, or non-food items like household supplies or electronics.
How to Manage Delivery Fees and Other Costs
Since EBT cash can’t cover delivery fees, you’ll need another payment method on file for those charges if your SNAP order doesn’t meet the free delivery threshold. You can add a credit card, debit card, or even an Amazon gift card to your account to cover these additional costs. Amazon will automatically split the payment, using your SNAP EBT for eligible items and your other payment method for the rest.
In summary, Amazon is a great resource for using your SNAP food benefits, offering convenience and a wide selection. However, it’s essential to remember that your EBT cash benefits are for other uses and cannot be spent on the platform. By planning ahead and having a secondary payment method ready, you can make the most of your online grocery shopping experience.
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