For millions of individuals and families across the United States, Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards, encompassing programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), EBT Cash benefits, WIC, and Over-the-Counter (OTC) benefit cards, are vital tools for accessing essential goods. These benefits play a crucial role in supporting household well-being and ensuring access to nutritious food and health-related products.
Walgreens, a prominent neighborhood health destination and retail pharmacy, has become an increasingly accessible option for EBT cardholders. This article aims to provide a clear and comprehensive guide on how EBT can be effectively utilized at Walgreens, detailing accepted EBT types, eligible products, online and delivery options, and practical payment procedures, thereby empowering shoppers to make informed decisions and maximize their benefits.
Direct Answer: Does Walgreens Accept EBT?
Walgreens widely accepts EBT benefits, primarily for eligible food items through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly known as food stamps. This acceptance extends to various EBT types, including SNAP, Summer EBT (SUN Bucks), and, in many instances, EBT Cash benefits. Furthermore, Walgreens also accepts certain Over-the-Counter (OTC) benefit cards and WIC at select locations.
Historically, in-person EBT acceptance at Walgreens stores was often described as being available at “select stores”. However, recent developments indicate a significant expansion in accessibility. Most Walgreens stores now accept SNAP/EBT for in-person purchases. More notably, the landscape of EBT accessibility at Walgreens has rapidly evolved through strategic partnerships with major third-party delivery platforms. As of recent announcements, these collaborations enable SNAP/EBT payments at nearly 7,800 Walgreens stores nationwide via DoorDash and over 7,500 stores through Instacart. This substantial increase in reach means that for a vast majority of EBT cardholders, Walgreens is now a viable and convenient shopping option, even if a traditionally EBT-accepting store might not be immediately nearby for in-person shopping. This expansion represents a positive advancement in broadening food access for communities across the country.
Understanding EBT Types Accepted at Walgreens
The term “EBT” encompasses several distinct benefit programs, each with its own specific rules regarding what can be purchased and how the benefits can be used. Walgreens accommodates several of these key EBT types.
SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) / Food Stamps / CalFresh / Summer EBT (SUN Bucks)
This is the most prevalent EBT benefit type, specifically designated for purchasing eligible food items. Walgreens accepts SNAP benefits for a broad array of groceries and food products. This includes benefits from state-specific programs like CalFresh and seasonal programs such as Summer EBT, also known as SUN Bucks.
EBT Cash Benefits (TANF – Temporary Assistance for Needy Families)
Beyond food assistance, EBT cards can also hold cash benefits, typically disbursed through programs like Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). Unlike SNAP, EBT Cash benefits offer greater flexibility, allowing purchases of a wider range of items, including non-food essentials, and even enabling cash withdrawals. Walgreens locations that process EBT transactions generally can also handle EBT Cash transactions for items not covered by SNAP. It is important to note that while EBT Cash provides broad purchasing power, certain restrictions apply, such as prohibitions on using these funds for alcohol, tobacco, cannabis, or gambling.
WIC (Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children)
Walgreens accepts WIC benefits at select locations. WIC benefits are highly specific and cover only approved foods tailored to an individual’s WIC food package, which varies based on nutritional needs and age. Shoppers intending to use WIC should verify acceptance by utilizing the Walgreens store search tool on their website, filtering for “WIC accepted” under the “conveniences” category.
OTC (Over-the-Counter) Benefit Cards
These specialized cards are funded by specific health plans, predominantly those associated with Medicare Advantage (Part D) programs. They provide a predetermined monthly or quarterly allowance for eligible health and wellness products, such as cough and cold remedies, vitamins, and certain medical equipment. Walgreens accepts OTC benefit cards for both online and in-store purchases. A key characteristic of these funds is that they typically do not roll over to the next period unless explicitly permitted by the specific health plan.
The diverse nature of EBT benefits can sometimes lead to confusion regarding their appropriate use. A clear understanding of each benefit type’s purpose and limitations is crucial for a seamless shopping experience. The presence of multiple EBT types, each with distinct rules regarding what can be purchased and how they can be used (e.g., online versus in-store, applicability of fees), necessitates a clear breakdown. This clarity helps prevent frustration and ensures that individuals can effectively utilize their benefits. Pharmacies like Walgreens are increasingly becoming vital access points for food and essential items, expanding beyond traditional grocery stores and underscoring their growing role as community health destinations that also address basic needs.
To further clarify the distinctions between these benefit types, the following table provides a concise overview:
Table 1: EBT Benefit Types & What They Cover at Walgreens
| Benefit Type | Primary Use | Walgreens Acceptance | Key Restrictions/Notes |
| SNAP (Food Stamps/CalFresh/SUN Bucks) | Eligible Food Items | Widely accepted in-store & online (via DoorDash/Instacart) | Cannot be used for non-food items, hot prepared foods, alcohol, tobacco, or online delivery/service fees. |
| EBT Cash (TANF) | General Expenses (e.g., non-food essentials, rent, utilities) | Accepted in-store for non-food items; cash withdrawals possible at ATMs/cashback | Cannot be used for alcohol, tobacco, cannabis, gambling. Generally cannot be used for online delivery/service fees. |
| WIC | Specific Food Packages for Women, Infants, and Children | Accepted at select stores (check Walgreens store search tool) | Only covers approved foods tailored to individual WIC food package. |
| OTC Benefit Card | Health & Wellness Products (e.g., cold remedies, vitamins, medical equipment) | Accepted in-store & online | Covers specific health products; eligibility depends on health plan. Funds may expire and typically do not roll over. |
What You Can Buy with EBT at Walgreens
The eligibility rules for items purchased with EBT benefits, particularly SNAP, are set at the federal level by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and are consistent across all participating retailers, including Walgreens.
SNAP-Eligible Food Items
With SNAP benefits, shoppers can purchase a wide variety of food products intended for household consumption. This includes:
- Fresh Produce: Fruits and vegetables, whether fresh, frozen, or canned.
- Proteins: Meat, poultry, and fish, available in fresh, frozen, or canned forms.
- Dairy: Products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt.
- Grains: Breads, cereals, and other baked goods.
- Snacks: A range of snack foods including chips, popcorn, nuts, and candy.
- Beverages: Non-alcoholic drinks like bottled water, energy drinks, soda, and various juices.
- Baking & Sweeteners: Items such as cake/brownie mixes, ice cream, honey, sugar, maple syrup, and other natural or artificial sweeteners.
- Cooking Essentials: Spices, seasonings, and other condiments.
- Food-Producing Plants: Seeds and plants that produce food for the household to eat.
Items Not Covered by SNAP Benefits
It is equally important for shoppers to be aware of items that SNAP benefits explicitly do not cover. These include:
- Non-Food Items: This broad category encompasses pet food, household supplies (e.g., cleaning products, paper towels), and general hygiene items (unless specifically covered by an OTC benefit card).
- Prepared Foods: Hot foods or any food items that are already prepared or heated in the store for immediate consumption are ineligible. This means a customer cannot use SNAP to buy a hot coffee, a ready-to-eat rotisserie chicken, or a sandwich from a deli counter at Walgreens, even if other food items are eligible. This is a common point of confusion for EBT users and warrants clear emphasis.
- Restricted Beverages: Alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, and beverages that do not have a “nutritional facts label” are not covered.
- Health-Related Items: Vitamins, supplements, and most medicines are generally not covered by SNAP, though they may be eligible if purchased with an OTC benefit card.
WIC-Eligible Items
For WIC cardholders, the purchasing rules are distinct and highly specific. WIC benefits are limited to approved food items that are part of an individual’s tailored WIC food package. This means that even if an item is generally considered a food, it may not be WIC-eligible unless it is on the specific approved list for that WIC participant.
OTC Benefit Card Eligible Items
Items covered by OTC benefit cards are distinct from SNAP or WIC. These cards are designed for specific health and wellness products, which may include cough and cold remedies, certain vitamins, medical equipment, and select hygiene items, depending on the health plan’s provisions.
While the core rules for SNAP-eligible items are universal, the availability of these items can vary by retailer. Walgreens, being primarily a pharmacy, has a different inventory focus compared to a traditional grocery store. While the store has expanded its offerings to include over 4,000 SNAP-eligible products for delivery, its assortment might not be as extensive for food items as a dedicated supermarket. Therefore, shoppers should plan their lists accordingly.
For a quick reference on what can and cannot be purchased with SNAP at Walgreens, refer to the table below:
Table 2: SNAP-Eligible vs. Ineligible Items at Walgreens
| SNAP-Eligible Items (Food) | SNAP-Ineligible Items (Non-Food/Restricted) |
| Fruits and Vegetables (fresh, frozen, canned) | Hot Prepared Foods (e.g., deli sandwiches, rotisserie chicken) |
| Meat, Poultry, Fish (fresh, frozen, canned) | Alcoholic Beverages (beer, wine, liquor) |
| Dairy Products (milk, cheese, yogurt) | Tobacco Products (cigarettes, cigars) |
| Breads, Cereals, Baked Goods | Vitamins, Supplements, Medicines (unless covered by OTC card) |
| Snack Foods (chips, popcorn, nuts, candy) | Pet Food |
| Non-alcoholic Beverages (bottled water, soda, juice) | Household Supplies (cleaning products, paper towels) |
| Cake/Brownie Mixes, Ice Cream | Hygiene Items (shampoo, soap, deodorant, unless covered by OTC card) |
| Seeds and Plants (that produce food) | Beverages without a “nutritional facts label” |
| Spices, Seasonings, Honey, Sugar, Condiments |
Using EBT for Walgreens Online Orders and Delivery
Walgreens has significantly enhanced its accessibility for EBT cardholders through strategic partnerships with leading third-party delivery services. This expansion of online EBT acceptance is a pivotal development, allowing customers to use their SNAP/EBT benefits for convenient delivery or pickup, directly addressing common barriers such as transportation limitations and challenging work schedules. This digital transformation serves as a critical solution to access barriers, particularly for individuals residing in “food deserts” or those with limited mobility, effectively expanding Walgreens’ role as a vital community resource.
DoorDash Partnership
In a significant move launched on April 24, 2024, Walgreens collaborated with DoorDash to enable SNAP/EBT payment acceptance at nearly 7,800 Walgreens stores nationwide via the DoorDash platform. This partnership marked DoorDash as the first platform to facilitate direct SNAP purchases from Walgreens and the first third-party delivery service provider (DSP) to offer SNAP/EBT as a payment option at a major drugstore across the country. Through this collaboration, Walgreens makes over 4,000 SNAP-eligible products available for delivery, often within an hour. To encourage adoption, special incentives, such as a $0 delivery fee on initial orders for non-DashPass subscribers, have been offered (e.g., using code WAGSNAP, valid through June 16, 2024).
Instacart Partnership
Following closely, Walgreens and Instacart announced their collaboration on August 6, 2024, extending online SNAP/EBT payment acceptance to more than 7,500 Walgreens stores nationwide, including over 100 Duane Reade locations in New York. This partnership allows customers to purchase thousands of SNAP-eligible products for same-day delivery via Instacart. To utilize this service, customers simply add their SNAP EBT card as a form of payment to their Instacart profile, shop from the Walgreens storefront within the app or website, and then select the amount of their benefit they wish to allocate to eligible items at checkout. Additionally, EBT cardholders may be eligible for discounts on Instacart+ memberships.
Important Considerations for Online Orders
While online delivery offers unparalleled convenience, it is crucial for users to understand the financial aspects not covered by SNAP benefits. SNAP funds do not cover additional fees associated with online orders, such as delivery fees, service fees, small order fees, surge fees, or gratuities. This means that customers will need an alternative payment method, such as a credit or debit card, to cover these non-eligible charges. This “hidden cost of convenience” creates a potential financial barrier for some EBT users, necessitating an alternative payment method for these additional costs. Furthermore, EBT Cash benefits generally cannot be used for any part of online shopping, including shipping, delivery, or service fees. This distinction is important for budgeting and planning online purchases.
The following table summarizes the key aspects of Walgreens’ online EBT delivery options:
Table 3: Walgreens Online EBT Delivery Options
| Platform | Launch Date/Partnership Info | Number of Stores | Key Features | Important Notes on Fees |
| DoorDash | April 24, 2024. First DSP for major drugstore to accept SNAP/EBT. | Nearly 7,800 nationwide | Over 4,000 SNAP-eligible products for delivery within an hour. Special incentives (e.g., $0 delivery fee on initial orders). | SNAP does not cover delivery, service, small order, surge fees, or gratuities. EBT Cash cannot be used for online fees. |
| Instacart | August 6, 2024. Includes Duane Reade locations. | More than 7,500 nationwide | Thousands of SNAP-eligible products for same-day delivery. EBT cardholders may receive Instacart+ membership discount. | SNAP does not cover delivery, service, small order, surge fees, or gratuities. EBT Cash cannot be used for online fees. |
In-Store Payment Procedures with EBT
Utilizing EBT benefits for in-store purchases at Walgreens is a straightforward process, whether at a traditional checkout lane or a self-checkout kiosk.
General Checkout Process
When shopping in-store, it is advisable to inform the cashier that EBT will be used as a payment method. To facilitate a smooth transaction, separating SNAP-eligible food items from non-eligible items (such as household goods or health products) before reaching the register is recommended.
At the checkout, the process typically involves:
- Swiping the EBT card into the card reader.
- Selecting the benefit type: The card reader will prompt the user to choose between “Food” for SNAP benefits or “Cash” for EBT Cash benefits.
- Entering the PIN: The user must enter their four-digit Personal Identification Number (PIN) on the keypad and press OK or ENTER. It is crucial to never share the PIN with anyone, including the cashier, to protect the benefits.
- Transaction Completion: The amount for eligible items will be automatically deducted from the corresponding EBT account. For any non-eligible items in the transaction, a separate payment method (e.g., EBT Cash, debit card, credit card, or cash) will be required.
The importance of user education for smooth transactions cannot be overstated. Understanding the process of separating items and selecting the correct benefit type is crucial for a successful transaction. Without clear guidance, users might experience delays or confusion at checkout. Detailed procedural steps are vital for empowering EBT users, and this also highlights the need for adequate training for Walgreens staff to assist EBT customers efficiently and empathetically. A smooth checkout experience contributes to customer satisfaction and reduces perceived barriers to using benefits.
Using EBT at Self-Checkout
Many Walgreens stores offer self-checkout lanes where EBT cards can generally be used. However, it is worth noting that not all Walgreens locations are equipped with self-checkout terminals, and while EBT acceptance is becoming widespread, it is always prudent to confirm. If a shopper prefers to use self-checkout, it is recommended to call the local store beforehand to verify both the availability of self-checkout lanes and EBT acceptance at that specific location.
Using EBT Cash for Non-Food Items
For individuals with EBT Cash benefits, these funds can be utilized to pay for non-food items at Walgreens. After completing the SNAP-eligible portion of a transaction, the EBT card can be swiped again, with “EBT Cash” selected, and the PIN entered for the remaining non-food items. EBT Cash also offers the flexibility of cash withdrawals at ATMs or through cashback services at stores displaying the Quest® logo with a dollar sign. Users should be mindful of potential ATM fees or withdrawal limits that may apply.
Finding a Walgreens Store That Accepts EBT
While EBT acceptance at Walgreens has expanded significantly, especially through online platforms, verifying in-store acceptance for a specific location can still be beneficial.
Call Your Local Store
Walgreens itself recommends contacting a local store directly to confirm EBT acceptance and specific program details for in-person shopping. This remains the most direct way to verify the policy for a particular location.
USDA SNAP Retailer Locator
A reliable resource for finding stores that accept SNAP EBT is the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)’s online SNAP Retailer Locator tool. This tool can help identify participating retailers near a user’s location.
Walgreens Store Search Tool (for WIC)
For those specifically seeking Walgreens locations that accept WIC benefits, the Walgreens website offers a dedicated store search tool. Users can filter results by selecting “WIC accepted” under the “conveniences” category to find relevant stores.
Online Delivery Platforms
The widespread online partnerships with DoorDash and Instacart mean that almost any Walgreens location is now accessible for SNAP-eligible purchases via these delivery platforms. The respective apps or websites for DoorDash and Instacart will indicate which Walgreens stores are available for SNAP/EBT purchases in a given area, effectively providing nationwide access through these digital avenues. This shift fundamentally changes how EBT users can access Walgreens’ products, emphasizing online avenues as a primary means of access and reducing reliance on potentially outdated “in-store acceptance” lists. This highlights the growing importance of omnichannel retail for benefit recipients.
Essential Tips for EBT Shoppers at Walgreens
To ensure a smooth and efficient shopping experience, EBT cardholders can adopt several proactive strategies.
Know Your Balance
Before embarking on a shopping trip, it is highly recommended to check the current EBT balance. This practice helps shoppers stay within their budget and prevents potential issues or delays at checkout. Balances can typically be verified via receipts, by calling the EBT customer service number located on the back of the card, or by using a trusted EBT balance-checking application. Proactive financial management for EBT users, including checking balances and seeking deals, is crucial for maximizing the utility of their benefits. This approach empowers users with better household budgeting and access to more diverse food options.
Look for Deals and Coupons
To maximize the value of EBT benefits, shoppers should explore available discounts. The Walgreens website and its mobile application are excellent resources for finding coupons, sales, and special offers that can help extend purchasing power. Notably, OTC benefit cards can often be combined with other valid discounts, coupons, or promotions, including myWalgreens Cash rewards for myWalgreens members.
Protect Your EBT Card
The security of EBT benefits is paramount, as benefit fraud, including skimming and PIN theft, remains a persistent concern for beneficiaries. Vigilance is key to protecting funds.
- Beware of Skimming Devices: Before inserting an EBT card into any card reader, gently check the device for any signs of tampering or illegal skimming devices. If the reader feels loose, wobbly, or appears out of place, it should not be used.
- PIN Security: The Personal Identification Number (PIN) is the primary safeguard for EBT funds. It is strongly advised to change the EBT card PIN monthly, particularly before each new benefit issuance. The PIN should never be shared with anyone, including cashiers or individuals claiming to be from official agencies via phone or text. Writing the PIN on the EBT card itself or on any documents kept with the card should be avoided.
- Keep Your Card Safe: When not in use, the physical EBT card should be stored in a secure location to prevent loss or theft.
- Monitor Transactions: Regularly monitoring EBT account balances and transaction history through official channels or secure EBT balance-checking applications can help detect any unauthorized activity promptly.
- Report Lost/Stolen Cards Immediately: In the event that an EBT card is lost or stolen, it is critical to report it immediately by calling the state EBT customer service number. Prompt reporting helps protect benefits from being accessed by unauthorized individuals. This section is a critical safety warning, as stolen benefits can have immediate and severe impacts on a household’s ability to purchase food and essentials.
Conclusion: Empowering Your Shopping Experience
Walgreens stands as a valuable and increasingly accessible resource for EBT cardholders seeking to purchase essential goods. The widespread acceptance of SNAP benefits, coupled with the ability to utilize EBT Cash, WIC (at select locations), and OTC benefit cards, positions Walgreens as a comprehensive retail option. The significant expansion of online EBT acceptance through partnerships with DoorDash and Instacart has revolutionized access, overcoming traditional barriers like transportation and offering unprecedented convenience for millions of users nationwide.
While the convenience of online delivery is substantial, it is crucial for shoppers to remember that SNAP benefits do not cover associated delivery or service fees, requiring an alternative payment method for these charges. Understanding the specific rules for each EBT benefit type and planning purchases accordingly will contribute to a seamless shopping experience. By proactively managing their benefits, seeking out deals, and diligently protecting their EBT card and PIN, individuals can confidently and effectively utilize their benefits at Walgreens to meet their household’s diverse needs.