Shopping for groceries online has become super popular, and using apps like Kroger’s makes it even easier! If you’re receiving SNAP benefits, often called EBT, you might be wondering if you can use the Kroger app to do your shopping and pay with your EBT card. The answer, like most things in life, isn’t always a simple yes or no. This essay will break down everything you need to know about using EBT on the Kroger app, so you can shop with confidence.
Can I Actually Use EBT on the Kroger App?
Yes, you can absolutely use your EBT card to pay for eligible groceries on the Kroger app. This is a great convenience for families who rely on SNAP benefits and want to shop online. Kroger has made it possible to use EBT for both grocery pickup and grocery delivery orders placed through their app or website.

How Do I Set Up My EBT Card in the Kroger App?
Setting up your EBT card on the Kroger app is usually pretty straightforward. First, make sure you have a Kroger account and that you’re logged in. Then, you’ll need to add your EBT card information to your payment options.
Here are the general steps to add your EBT card, although they may change slightly as Kroger updates its app:
- Go to the “Account” or “Wallet” section of the app.
- Look for an option to add a payment method or card.
- Select “EBT” or “Food Stamps” as your card type.
You’ll then need to enter your EBT card number and possibly your card’s expiration date. Sometimes you might be asked for the cardholder’s name or address, as well. Make sure all the information you enter matches the details on your EBT card perfectly to avoid any issues during checkout.
After you’ve added your EBT card, make sure that it is set as your preferred payment method when you’re placing an order. This ensures that your EBT funds are used for eligible items when you checkout.
What Can I Buy With EBT on the Kroger App?
Not everything you see on the Kroger app can be purchased with EBT. SNAP benefits are designed for food purchases, and there are certain guidelines Kroger must follow. So, it is important to know what you can and can’t buy.
Generally, you can use your EBT card on the Kroger app to purchase:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Dairy products
- Breads and cereals
- Other eligible foods like snacks and non-alcoholic beverages
Items that are *not* typically covered by SNAP and therefore cannot be purchased with EBT include things like alcohol, tobacco products, pet food, vitamins and supplements, and household supplies. These non-eligible items must be paid for with another payment method, like a credit or debit card.
Sometimes, certain prepared foods, like hot foods that are ready to eat, might not be covered. Be sure to check the specific items in your cart before you checkout to make sure they are eligible for EBT purchase.
What About Pickup and Delivery Fees?
When you’re shopping online, you might encounter fees for pickup or delivery. These fees are a tricky situation, and the Kroger app handles them in a specific way.
The good news is that in most cases, EBT can only be used for the purchase of eligible food items. The bad news is that fees such as pickup or delivery fees cannot be paid with EBT.
Here is a general rule of thumb: fees associated with your order will be paid for with a separate payment method. This is normally a credit or debit card. You’ll need to have a card entered in your Kroger account to handle any fees that might come with your order, like delivery charges. Make sure you have a different payment method linked to your account, so you can pay for these extra charges.
Be sure to check the checkout screen carefully to see how the fees are being handled. Kroger usually separates the EBT-eligible items from the non-eligible items and fees during the checkout process.
How Do I Pay With EBT at Checkout?
When you’re ready to check out on the Kroger app, the process is designed to be simple. Here’s how it usually works:
First, make sure all the items in your cart that you want to pay for with EBT are eligible SNAP purchases. Then, at the checkout screen, you’ll select the payment method you want to use. You should see your EBT card listed as an option if you added it to your account.
Step | Description |
---|---|
1 | Add all your groceries to your cart. |
2 | Go to checkout. |
3 | Select EBT as your payment method. |
4 | If there are non-eligible items, you will choose another card to pay for them. |
The app will likely ask you to enter your PIN number associated with your EBT card to authorize the transaction. This is a security measure to protect your benefits.
After you enter your PIN, the transaction should go through. You might see a breakdown of how much was charged to your EBT card and how much was charged to any other payment method you used.
What if I Have Problems Using EBT on the Kroger App?
Sometimes, things don’t go as planned. If you run into any issues while using your EBT card on the Kroger app, don’t panic! Here’s what you can do.
First, double-check your card details in the app to make sure you entered everything correctly. Make sure the card number, expiration date, and any other information is accurate.
- Contact Kroger Customer Service: The Kroger app and website usually have a customer service section. Contact them through the app or website. They can often help troubleshoot problems and give you instructions.
- Check Your EBT Balance: Make sure you have enough funds on your EBT card to cover the items you’re trying to purchase. You can check your balance through the app or by calling the number on the back of your EBT card.
- Technical Issues: Sometimes, there might be a technical glitch with the app or Kroger’s system. If you’re having issues, try closing and reopening the app or restarting your phone.
If the problem persists, contact your local SNAP office. They can help you with issues related to your EBT account.
Are There Any Limitations or Restrictions?
While using EBT on the Kroger app is great, there are a few things to keep in mind. These are not specific limitations of the app, but restrictions you should know about using EBT.
First, you must adhere to all the rules of your SNAP benefits. This means using the benefits only for eligible food items and not selling or trading your EBT card.
There are also some limits to the amount of money you can spend at one time, and these limits depend on your individual SNAP benefits. Here are some things to consider when using your EBT card:
- Item Eligibility: Always make sure the items you’re buying are eligible for SNAP.
- Balance: Check your EBT balance regularly.
- Fraud Prevention: Keep your EBT card and PIN safe.
- Reporting Issues: Report any problems with your EBT card or account immediately.
Make sure you know the regulations for your area, since SNAP rules can vary by state.
Conclusion
Using the Kroger app with your EBT card is a convenient way to shop for groceries, allowing you to order online and choose pickup or delivery. By understanding the rules and the steps, you can easily manage your SNAP benefits and get your groceries delivered safely and quickly. Always remember to check your order for eligible items and to have a backup payment method to cover fees. Happy shopping!