Category: Blog Posts

If you rely on SNAP benefits, commonly known as food stamps or EBT, you might wonder how you can use them for the convenience of online grocery shopping. Getting to the store isn’t always easy, and carrying heavy bags can be a challenge. The good news is that you have a major online retailer ready to help.

Yes, Amazon does accept EBT cards for eligible grocery purchases. This program is part of a federal initiative to make online food shopping accessible to SNAP recipients. It’s a game-changer for many, bringing a world of food options right to your doorstep.

How to Use Your EBT Card on Amazon

Setting up your EBT card on Amazon is a straightforward process. First, you’ll need an Amazon account. Once you’re logged in, go to your wallet in the account settings. Here, you can add your EBT card just like you would a debit or credit card. Amazon will guide you through a quick verification process to confirm your card is part of the SNAP program. After it’s confirmed, you’re all set to shop for eligible items.

What You Can Buy with EBT on Amazon

Your EBT funds work on Amazon much like they do in a physical store. You can use them to purchase a wide variety of eligible food items. This includes fresh produce, meats, dairy products, breads, cereals, and snacks. You can even buy seeds and plants that produce food for your household.

It’s important to remember that your EBT card cannot be used for non-food items, shipping costs, or Amazon Fresh delivery fees. Items like household supplies, pet food, vitamins, and alcohol are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.

Making the Most of Your EBT Benefits Online

One of the best perks of using EBT on Amazon is access to Amazon Fresh and Grocery. However, you’ll need a separate form of payment on file for any non-EBT charges, like delivery fees or ineligible items in your cart. Many customers also take advantage of an Amazon Prime discount. If you are a SNAP recipient, you can get Prime membership at a reduced monthly rate, which includes free grocery delivery on orders over a certain amount, making it even more affordable.

Using your EBT card for online shopping with Amazon is a simple and effective way to manage your grocery needs. It provides the convenience and selection you expect from Amazon while helping you stretch your food budget from the comfort of your home.

If you’re an avid online shopper, you’ve likely found yourself at the checkout on Amazon, PayPal balance in hand, wondering if you can link the two. It’s a common question, as PayPal is a go-to for many when it comes to secure and simple payments. The relationship between these two giants, however, isn’t as straightforward as you might hope.

Let’s clear the air right away. You cannot directly use your PayPal account to pay for items on Amazon. Amazon has its own robust payment system and prefers to keep transactions within its ecosystem. While this might be initially disappointing, there are some clever workarounds that can help you put your PayPal funds to use.

How to Use Your PayPal Balance on Amazon

Since a direct link isn’t available, you need to turn your digital PayPal cash into a form that Amazon accepts. The most effective method is by using a PayPal Debit Card. If you have a PayPal Balance account, you can apply for this Mastercard. It draws funds directly from your PayPal balance and can be added to your Amazon wallet just like any other debit or credit card.

Another popular option is to purchase an Amazon gift card using your PayPal funds. Several third-party websites, like eGifter or Gyft, allow you to buy Amazon gift cards and pay with PayPal. You then receive a digital code that you can instantly redeem on your Amazon account, effectively funding your purchase.

Why Amazon Prefers Its Own Payment Methods

You might wonder why these two payment powerhouses don’t work together directly. The primary reason is control. By managing payments through its own system, Amazon streamlines the customer experience, handles security on its terms, and avoids sharing transaction data or paying fees to an external processor like PayPal. It’s simply more efficient for their business model.

Your Best Bet for Checkout

For the smoothest shopping experience on Amazon, your best options are to use a credit card, a debit card, or the Amazon Store Card. If you’re determined to use your PayPal funds, obtaining the PayPal Debit Card is the most seamless long-term solution. It gives you the flexibility to shop anywhere that accepts Mastercard, not just Amazon.

While you can’t click a PayPal button at Amazon checkout, a little creativity can bridge the gap. By using the methods above, you can still access your money and enjoy your Amazon shopping spree without a hitch.

When you think of Amazon, you might picture speedy deliveries and a vast online marketplace. But behind the scenes, the relationship between this tech giant and former President Donald Trump is a complex and often contentious one. It’s not a simple story of support or opposition, but rather a dynamic interplay of public criticism, policy disagreements, and the practical realities of political engagement.

A History of Public Tensions

The friction between Donald Trump and Amazon’s founder, Jeff Bezos, is well-documented. For years, President Trump frequently targeted Amazon on social media, criticizing its tax practices and its relationship with the US Postal Service. He also consistently voiced his displeasure with The Washington Post, which is owned by Bezos, over its news coverage. This public animosity made any direct political support from the company’s leadership seem highly unlikely.

Where Amazon’s Political Money Goes

While the top-level personal relationship was strained, Amazon as a corporation operates within the political system. Like many large companies, it has a Political Action Committee (PAC) that donates to candidates from both major parties. The focus of these contributions is typically on supporting lawmakers who align with the company’s business interests, such as those on key committees dealing with technology, commerce, and regulation. This approach is less about personal endorsement and more about maintaining access and influence on policy matters that affect its operations.

Policy Over Personality

When examining corporate support, it’s helpful to look at specific policy areas. During the Trump administration, Amazon found common ground on certain issues, such as the need for modernized infrastructure and aspects of the USMCA trade agreement. However, there were significant clashes on other fronts, including immigration policies and the company’s legal challenge regarding the JEDI cloud-computing contract. Amazon’s engagement is often driven by a specific policy’s impact on its business rather than unwavering loyalty to a particular political figure.

The Bigger Picture of Corporate Politics

Ultimately, the question of whether Amazon “supports” Trump doesn’t have a yes-or-no answer. Major corporations like Amazon often navigate politics by supporting individual policies and building relationships with a wide range of elected officials, regardless of party. Their primary goal is to advocate for a regulatory and economic environment that allows their business to thrive.

So, while personal tensions between Trump and Bezos were clear, Amazon’s political strategy is multifaceted. It involves calculated contributions and lobbying efforts focused on business objectives, demonstrating that in the world of corporate politics, policy priorities often take precedence over personal allegiances.

If you’ve ever found yourself scrolling through Amazon, you might have come across a few different video services. It can get a little confusing, especially when you’re trying to figure out what exactly comes with your Amazon Prime membership. One of the most common questions people have is about the relationship between Amazon Prime and the older-named “Amazon Instant Video.”

Let’s clear up the confusion right away. The short answer is yes, but the name has evolved. What was once known as Amazon Instant Video is now simply called Prime Video. It’s a core part of your Prime subscription, offering a massive library of movies and TV shows at no extra cost.

What Happened to Amazon Instant Video?

Amazon Instant Video was the original name for Amazon’s digital video store. You could rent or buy movies and TV episodes individually. However, the service that comes included with your Prime membership was always a separate, benefit called “Prime Instant Video.” To simplify things, Amazon eventually dropped the “Instant” and now calls the entire video platform Prime Video. So, when you see Prime Video today, it includes the vast included library that was once branded as Prime Instant Video.

What You Get with Prime Video

Your Prime membership unlocks a huge collection of movies and TV series. This includes popular Amazon Original series, award-winning films, and a rotating selection of classic and modern favorites. You can stream all of this content on virtually any device—your smart TV, phone, tablet, or gaming console. It’s all available for you to watch as much as you want, with no additional fees beyond your annual or monthly Prime cost.

Renting and Buying Movies on Amazon

It’s important to know that Amazon still operates a digital store where you can rent or buy videos that aren’t included with Prime. These transactions are separate. When you’re browsing, look for the Prime logo on a title. If it says “Included with Prime” or has a Prime checkmark, you can stream it for free. If not, you’ll see options to rent or buy. This is the modern version of the original “Instant Video” store, fully integrated into the Prime Video interface.

In short, your Amazon Prime subscription absolutely gives you access to a premier streaming service. While the name has changed from Amazon Instant Video to Prime Video, the value and entertainment are very much a central part of the package. You can start streaming a world of content the moment your Prime membership begins.

It’s a name that’s become synonymous with online shopping, cloud computing, and even space travel. But every global giant has a humble beginning, and the story of who started Amazon is a fascinating tale of vision and calculated risk. It’s a name you’ve almost certainly heard before, yet the details of its founding reveal the blueprint for one of the most successful companies in history.

The journey began not in a fancy corporate office, but in a garage, a classic starting point for so many legendary tech stories. The founder, a single individual with a bold idea, set out to create something that would fundamentally change how people shop and access information.

The Man Behind the Idea: Jeff Bezos

The founder of Amazon is Jeffrey P. Bezos. In 1994, Bezos was working at a Wall Street firm when he came across a startling statistic: the web had grown by 2,300% in a single year. He saw an incredible opportunity and decided to act on it. He left his lucrative job and began drafting a business plan for what would eventually become Amazon.

From a Garage to a Global Marketplace

Bezos officially founded Amazon.com, Inc. on July 5, 1994. He started the company in the garage of his rented home in Bellevue, Washington. The initial focus was on selling books. Why books? Bezos reasoned they were a universal product with a massive number of titles, making them perfect for an online catalog that could offer more selection than any physical store ever could. This customer-centric focus on selection and convenience became the cornerstone of Amazon’s philosophy.

The Evolution of a Customer-Centric Vision

While selling books was the starting point, Bezos’s vision for Amazon was always much larger. The company’s name, inspired by the vast South American river, hinted at his ambition. He systematically reinvested profits back into the business, constantly expanding into new product categories. This relentless drive led to innovations like Amazon Prime, Amazon Web Services (AWS), and the Kindle, each one building on the core idea of making life easier for the customer.

Looking back, the founding of Amazon by Jeff Bezos shows us the power of a simple idea executed with extraordinary focus. It reminds us that even the largest ecosystems can grow from a single seed, planted with a clear vision for serving customer needs in a new and revolutionary way.

You’re scrolling through Amazon, your cart is full of everything from groceries to gadgets, and you’re just about ready to check out. As you look at the payment options, you might be wondering if you can use popular “buy now, pay later” services like Afterpay to split your total into smaller, more manageable payments. It’s a common question for savvy shoppers looking to budget their purchases.

So, Does Amazon Work With Afterpay?

The short and direct answer is no, Amazon does not currently accept Afterpay as a payment method at checkout. While Amazon offers a variety of payment options, including its own credit cards and installment plans for specific items, Afterpay is not one of the available choices. This can be a bit disappointing if you’ve grown accustomed to using the service elsewhere.

Where You Can Use Afterpay for Your Shopping

Just because Amazon doesn’t partner with Afterpay doesn’t mean the service isn’t widely available. Many other major retailers, both online and in physical stores, do accept Afterpay. You can often find it at clothing stores, beauty brands, home goods retailers, and various other e-commerce sites. When you’re shopping online, look for the Afterpay logo on a website’s homepage or at the checkout page to confirm it’s an option.

Alternative Ways to Pay on Amazon

If you were hoping for a “buy now, pay later” option on Amazon, there are still some paths you can explore. Amazon sometimes offers its own installment plans, called Monthly Payments, for eligible items. This is typically for bigger-ticket items like electronics or furniture. Additionally, using an Amazon Store Card or Amazon Prime Store Card can provide special financing options, such as no-interest plans if paid in full within a set period.

Planning Your Next Amazon Purchase

Since Afterpay isn’t an option, a little financial planning can go a long way. Consider setting aside a small amount of money each week for your larger Amazon purchases. You could also keep an eye out for Amazon’s own promotional financing or use a general credit card that offers a similar “pay over time” feature. This way, you can still manage your budget while getting the items you need.

While it would be convenient to see Afterpay join Amazon’s list of payment methods, it’s not currently part of the platform. For now, shoppers can look to Amazon’s own financing options or use Afterpay at a multitude of other fantastic retailers. Knowing your payment options helps you shop smarter and stay within your budget, no matter where you fill your cart.

If you’ve ever stared at an Amazon return label and wished for a simpler way, you’re not alone. The process of boxing items up and dealing with shipping can be a hassle. Fortunately, there’s a widely popular and convenient alternative that might be available at a store you already visit. Many people wonder if they can handle their Amazon returns at Kohl’s, and the answer is a resounding yes for a vast number of items.

How the Kohl’s Amazon Returns Program Works

Kohl’s has partnered with Amazon to offer free returns, regardless of the reason. You don’t even need to pack your item in a box. Simply bring the item you wish to return to a participating Kohl’s store, along with the Amazon return code from your online return center. A Kohl’s employee will process the return for you, pack the item, and ship it back to an Amazon facility at no cost to you.

The Biggest Perks of Returning at Kohl’s

Choosing Kohl’s for your Amazon return comes with some fantastic benefits. The most significant one is that it’s completely free; there are no shipping fees or packing requirements. This saves you both time and money. As a little thank you, Kohl’s often provides a coupon for a discount off your in-store purchase. It’s a win-win situation that turns a chore into a potential shopping trip.

What You Need to Know Before You Go

Before you head out the door, it’s always a good idea to double-check a couple of things. First, initiate your return through your Amazon account online or in the app. Amazon will guide you through the steps and let you know if Kohl’s Drop-off is an option for your specific item. Second, while the program is available at most Kohl’s locations, it’s wise to confirm your local store is a participant by checking the store locator on Kohl’s website.

A Smooth Return Process from Start to Finish

To ensure everything goes smoothly, have your government-issued ID ready, as Kohl’s may ask for it to process the return. Once you’re in the store, look for the dedicated Amazon Returns desk, usually located near the front. The staff there are trained to handle the entire process quickly, getting you back to your day in no time.

Returning your Amazon purchases at Kohl’s is a truly convenient service that eliminates the typical headaches associated with online returns. With free shipping and the potential for a store discount, it’s an option worth considering for your next return.

If you’re starting to think about your holiday shopping, you’ve probably asked yourself, “Does Amazon do Black Friday?” The short and simple answer is a resounding yes. In fact, Amazon has become one of the central hubs for the entire Black Friday shopping season, offering a massive event that often stretches for weeks. It’s a prime opportunity to snag incredible deals on everything from high-tech gadgets and cozy home goods to this year’s most-wanted toys.

While the traditional Black Friday sale is a major highlight, Amazon’s approach is much more extensive. They kick off the savings long before the turkey is even in the oven, giving you plenty of time to browse and buy without the last-minute rush.

What to Expect from Amazon’s Black Friday Event

Amazon’s Black Friday is less of a single day and more of a major sales season. You can expect to see Lightning Deals, which are limited-time offers on popular items that can sell out in minutes. There are also countless discounts across every category imaginable. The event typically starts in early November, with new deals dropping constantly. The savings continue through Cyber Monday and often right up until Christmas, making it a marathon of value.

Top Tips for Scoring the Best Amazon Deals

To make the most of the sale, a little preparation goes a long way. First, consider signing up for a Prime membership, as many of the best deals are offered to members first or exclusively. You can also use the Amazon app to set up deal alerts for specific items on your wish list. When a hot-ticket item goes on sale, it’s best to act quickly, as stock for the deepest discounts is usually limited.

Beyond Black Friday: Amazon’s Year-Round Savings

While Black Friday is a standout event, Amazon provides opportunities to save all year. Keep an eye on their Prime Day event, typically in the summer, which is like a second Black Friday exclusively for Prime members. Additionally, Amazon’s Warehouse Deals section offers great prices on open-box and refurbished items, and their coupon page is always worth a quick check before any purchase.

So, not only does Amazon participate in Black Friday, but they have also reshaped it into a lengthy, convenient, and digital shopping extravaganza. With some smart planning, you can check a lot of names off your list while keeping your budget happily intact.

Managing your payment methods on Amazon is a simple but important part of keeping your account secure and organized. Over time, it’s easy to accumulate old credit cards, expired debit cards, or payment options you no longer use. Knowing how to remove these not only tidies up your digital wallet but also helps prevent any accidental charges to the wrong card during your next speedy checkout.

Step-by-Step Guide to Removing a Payment Method

The process is straightforward whether you’re on a computer or using the Amazon app. On a desktop, start by hovering over ‘Account & Lists’ and click on ‘Your Account.’ From there, find and select ‘Your Payments.’ You’ll see a list of all your saved cards and methods. Simply click on the one you want to remove and select the ‘Remove’ or ‘Delete’ option. On the mobile app, tap the profile icon, go to ‘Your Account,’ then ‘Your Payments.’ Tap the payment method and hit ‘Remove.

Why Keeping Your Wallet Tidy Matters

There are a few great reasons to regularly review your saved payment methods. The most obvious is security; fewer saved cards mean a smaller risk if your account were ever compromised. It also makes checkout smoother. Instead of scrolling through a long list of old cards, you can go straight to your preferred payment option. This is especially helpful during time-sensitive deals or when using Alexa to reorder.

What to Do If You Can’t Delete a Card

Sometimes, you might find that the ‘Remove’ option is grayed out. This usually happens for one common reason: the payment method is linked to an active subscription, like Prime, or a digital subscription such as Kindle Unlimited or Audible. To remove the card, you will first need to update the payment information for that specific subscription. Go to ‘Your Memberships and Subscriptions’ in your account settings, manage the subscription, and change its payment method to a different card. After that, you should be able to delete the old one without any trouble.

Taking a few minutes to manage your payment methods is a small task with big benefits. It gives you peace of mind, streamines your shopping experience, and ensures you’re always in control of your finances on one of the world’s largest retail platforms.

You’ve just received an Amazon gift card, and a world of possibilities is now at your fingertips. Whether it was a birthday present, a holiday surprise, or a simple thank you, this little card or code holds the key to millions of items. If you’re new to Amazon or just haven’t used a gift card balance before, the process is straightforward. Let’s walk through how to put your credit to good use.

Redeeming Your Gift Card on Amazon

The first step is to add the funds to your account. If you have a physical card, you’ll find a claim code hidden under a scratch-off area. For an e-gift card, the code will be in the email. Go to the Amazon website and hover over ‘Accounts & Lists’ in the top right. From the dropdown menu, click ‘Your Account.’ Find the section labeled ‘Gift cards’ and select ‘Redeem a Gift Card.’ Enter your code and click apply. The balance will be instantly added to your account and will be ready for your next purchase.

Applying Your Balance at Checkout

Once your gift card funds are in your account, shopping is a breeze. As you add items to your cart and proceed to checkout, you’ll see your payment methods. Your gift card balance is automatically applied to your order total. If your purchase costs less than your balance, the remaining funds will stay in your account for future use. If the total is more, you can easily pay the difference with another payment method, like a credit or debit card.

Helpful Tips for Your Gift Card

Keep a few things in mind to make the most of your gift card. First, you can check your current balance at any time in the ‘Gift cards’ section of your account. Second, gift cards cannot be used to purchase other gift cards, but they can be used for almost everything else on the site, from books and electronics to household goods and digital content. Finally, if you received a physical card, it’s a good idea to redeem it to your online account immediately so you don’t risk losing it.

Using an Amazon gift card is a simple and convenient way to get exactly what you want. With your funds securely stored in your account, you’re all set for a seamless shopping experience. Happy shopping!