If you are a part of SNAP/WIC, you must shop for your essentials using your EBT card. Although does Costco take EBT? Not all stores accept EBT and hence it is important that you know whether you will be able to use your EBT card at Costco or not.
We have done the research for you and our guide explains a few things that will help you understand to use your EBT card better.
Table of Contents
Does Costco Take EBT?
Yes, Costco does take EBT which helps customers purchase essentials for their households. Remember, you can only purchase certain items with your EBT card. This may include products like fruits, vegetables, meat, bread, cereal, etc.
What is Costco’s Policy For EBT?
Costco allows SNAP-eligible customers to purchase their products. Although there is no mention of WIC program consumers. For this reason, we would recommend customers contact Costco before they plan to visit. You can also use their store locator to find the details of the nearest Costco warehouse.
Which Products Are Not Eligible For SNAP EBT?
There are limitations to what you can purchase under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) program. For instance, you can’t use an EBT card at Costco gas stations and Costco food court. There are other items as well that are ineligible, like:
- Alcohol (Wine, Beer, etc)
- Tobacco
- Ready-to-eat food
- Hot Food
- Non-food items like pet food, household appliances, etc.
How Can I Use EBT Card at Costco Store?
If you have an EBT card, you do not have much to learn about using them. They are simple and work just like any other debit or credit card.
So just take your items to the checkout section and swipe your EBT card on the machine. After which enter your pin for verifications and you are done. It’s that easy.
Note: If you only have a limited balance, you can use your other cards as well and ask the associate to split your bill so you can use two cards to pay your bill including your EBT card.
Does Costco Accept EBT Online?
While most retailers accept EBT for online purchases, Costco doesn’t. Instead, you need to pay using a debit card or credit card. This also suggests that you will not be able to use your EBT card for pickup or delivery orders.
If you are still set on ordering online, then you may try alternative stores like Walmart, Whole Foods, and more.
Are EBT Purchases Eligible for Returns at Costco?
Yes, all the items you purchase at the Costco business center using the EBT card are eligible for returns. The return policy for EBT purchases is the standard Costco return policy. Costco gives a 100% satisfaction guarantee, if you are not satisfied with the product you can return it anytime at the nearest warehouse within a given period of time.
Where Else Can I Use EBT Card?
Costco isn’t the only store you can use EBT cards at any SNAP-authorized retailer and farmers’ market across the country. Some of the popular retail stores may also help you out, so check out what are their EBT policy.
- Target
- Trader Joe’s
- Sam’s Club
You can take the help of the SNAP retailer locator to find nearby SNAP-authorized retailers.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does Costco accept EBT cards for WIC?
Yes, Costco accepts WIC to protect the health of low-income women, infants, and children up to age 5 who are at nutrition risk.
2. Does Costco accept EBT for delivery?
EBT is not eligible for Costco online purchases. Therefore, it’s not applicable for delivery and pickup.
3. Can I purchase hot food with EBT at Costco?
Only household groceries are eligible for SNAP EBT. Somehow, ready-to-eat and hot food are not eligible for this program.
4. Does Costco accept EBT in California?
Yes, Costco will accept EBT in California across all its locations.
Conclusion
So does Costco take EBT at all stores? Yes, you can use your SNAP benefits for groceries, dairy, and many other foods at Costco. Your card will decline automatically for ineligible products. If you have any queries for us, you can use our comment section below.
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