Understanding SNAP Benefits and EBT
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps, is a federal assistance program that helps low-income individuals and families purchase food. Benefits are distributed through Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards, which function like debit cards at authorized retailers.
Sam's Club and EBT Acceptance
Sam's Club, a membership-only retail warehouse club owned by Walmart, accepts EBT cards at all physical store locations across the United States. However, there are several important considerations:
Key Requirements and Limitations
- You must have a valid Sam's Club membership
- EBT can only be used for in-store purchases (not online)
- Payment must be made in person
- Non-eligible items require a separate payment method
Membership Options
- Club Membership ($45/year)
- Plus Membership ($100/year)
Note that membership fees cannot be paid with SNAP benefits.
Eligible Items
SNAP benefits can be used to purchase:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Dairy products
- Breads and cereals
- Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
- Seeds and plants that produce food for the household
Ineligible Items
The following cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits:
- Alcohol and tobacco products
- Vitamins and medicines
- Hot prepared foods or foods meant to be eaten in-store
- Non-food items (paper products, pet food, cleaning supplies)
- Sam's Club membership fees
How to Use EBT at Sam's Club
- Shop for Eligible Items: Ensure that the items you select qualify for SNAP benefits
- Proceed to Checkout: Inform the cashier that you'll be using an EBT card
- Swipe Your EBT Card: Enter your PIN at the payment terminal
- Pay for Non-Eligible Items Separately: Use an alternative payment method for non-SNAP items
Benefits of Shopping at Sam's Club with EBT
- Bulk Savings: Purchasing items in bulk can help stretch food budgets
- Wide Selection: Access to a variety of fresh produce, meats, and dairy products
- Quality Products: Name-brand items at wholesale prices
Alternative Options
If Sam's Club membership fees are a concern, consider these alternatives that accept SNAP/EBT:
- Walmart (no membership required)
- Local grocery stores
- Farmers markets
- ALDI
- Target
Important Note: While Sam's Club accepts EBT in-store, SNAP benefits cannot be used for online purchases or delivery services.
For more information about SNAP benefits and eligible items, visit the USDA SNAP website or the USDA's official SNAP page.