Can You Use EBT On Amazon? Yes, But…
Last Updated on January 17, 2024 by Lori Pace
Amazon offers EBT (Electronics Benefits Transfer) recipients the chance to purchase eligible items on their website. It can be confusing to identify which products are eligible for EBT, given the number of items on Amazon.
It can be difficult to determine if you are eligible to use EBT for purchases. You’ll find out which products are eligible for EBT on Amazon’s platform. Also, you will learn how to add your EBT card so that you can start to use your benefits.
Amazon has been accepting EBT for years, but it’s a bit more complicated because they have brick-and-mortar services and are online only.
How Does Amazon EBT Work?
These are the steps to use your EBT card on Amazon.
- Register your SNAP EBT Card number here.
- Get groceries.
- After shopping, enter your EBT pin to pay for eligible groceries on Amazon.
Non-eligible EBT products can still be purchased. You will need to use a different form of payment.
How Do I Add My EBT Card To My Account?
You must first enter your unique number from your SNAP EBT card before you can use your benefits on Amazon. To add your SNAP card to your EBT card, register it here on Amazon.
What Are the Product Exclusions?
Amazon currently offers SNAP EBT for the following food items:
- Produce, fruits, vegetables, meats, poultry, fish, and dairy products.
- Bread, cereals, and canned vegetables are all available.
- Snacks, nuts, and non-alcoholic drinks
If in doubt, look out for Amazon grocery products that are “SNAP EBT-eligible”. If products aren’t listed above or have at least a “SNAP EBT-Eligible” label, they will be ineligible. There are some notable ineligible products you can’t purchase with EBT. These include:
- Alcohol
- Tobacco products
- Medicine
- Supplements for the diet
- Live animals
- Products for cleaning, beauty, and pet food.
Amazon does not sell alcohol or tobacco products. However, I will include them in my list for clarity. It is important to note that Amazon Layaway cannot be used with EBT-eligible products.
Does Amazon EBT Work In All 50 States?
Almost. Amazon EBT is available in all 50 states, except Alaska. EBT can be used in Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands as well as the District of Columbia.
Do I Have To Be A Prime Member To Use EBT?
EBT benefits are available for Amazon products without a Prime membership. You can also access Whole Foods Market and Amazon Fresh without being a Prime member. You can also get free delivery on eligible SNAP EBT orders without requiring a Prime membership.
How Does Amazon Verify My EBT Status?
Amazon will verify your EBT status by asking you to enter your EBT Number. To ensure that your EBT status does not change, you must requalify each year. To verify your EBT status and receive a 50% off a Prime membership EBT recipients, please do the following:
- Enter your EBT number.
- Upload a photo of your EBT Card.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Items Be Sold by a 3rd Party Seller?
EBT-eligible items must be shipped and sold by Amazon.
Can I Buy Amazon Gift Cards With EBT?
You cannot purchase Amazon gift certificates with EBT.
Can I Buy My Annual Prime Membership with EBT?
EBT cannot be used to purchase your Prime annual membership. You can still get a 50% off Prime if you have proof that you are an EBT recipient. You must first enter your EBT number and then upload a picture of your EBT card to confirm that you are eligible for the Prime Discount.
Is the Return Policy The Same When Using EBT?
Yes, if you aren’t satisfied with your Amazon Fresh store item or Amazon Go item, you can return it to receive a refund if you paid using EBT.
- Visit “Your Orders” (on your Amazon account).
- Navigate to the item you want to return (that you purchased using EBT).
- Select “Request Item Refund”.
- Follow the instructions.
After the refund has been processed, it may take up to 10 days to receive the refund on your EBT card.
