Does Publix Accept EBT Cards, SNAP or Food Stamps?
Millions of Americans receive monthly food stamps or WIC benefits to help feed their families during tough economic times. Many people like to know exactly what they can buy and where they can buy it. Most grocery and convenience stores accept EBT cards or food stamps as payment.
Publix is a major grocery chain that operates throughout the southeastern U.S. and participates in the WIC and Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) programs.
If you receive SNAP or food stamps, you may wonder, “Does Publix accept EBT cards for payment?” The answer is yes. Like Aldi, Whole Foods, and Sam’s Club, Publix accepts EBT cards for certain purchases. Read on to learn more.
Does Publix Accept EBT Cards, SNAP, or Food Stamps?
Yes, Publix accepts EBT (electronic benefits transfer) cards, SNAP (supplemental nutrition assistance program) benefits, and food stamps for eligible foods.
Publix accepts EBT card payments at all its locations through self-service or regular checkout. According to Grocery Dive, the grocery store also accepts EBT for online orders through Instacart.
What can I Buy at Publix with EBT Card or WIC?
Many of you wonder what I can buy at Publix with food stamps and WIC. These are the eligible foods you can buy at Pubix with EBT cards:
✔️Baby formula
✔️Baby foods
✔️Bread and bakery items
✔️All types of cereals
✔️Coffee
✔️Dairy products of all kinds, including milk, yogurt, and cheese
✔️Energy drinks that have nutritional labels
✔️Frozen dinners
✔️Fruits
✔️Vegetables
✔️Meats
✔️Seafood
✔️Poultry
✔️Protein bars, as long as there is a nutritional label
You can use your EBT card the same way you would a debit or credit card when purchasing in a store. If you make a purchase online with your EBT card, you have the option to have the items shipped and picked up.
Ineligible Items
Because the SNAP program aims to improve health through nutrition, it won’t pay for certain items at Publix or any other retailer.
Using your EBT card at Publix, you cannot buy:
❌Alcohol
❌Cigarettes/tobacco
❌Foods with a Supplemental Facts label (vitamins, medicines, etc.)
❌Hot foods or hot prepared meals
❌Pet food
❌Cosmetics/hygiene products
❌Cleaning supplies and paper products
❌Household supplies
❌Live animals
If you want to purchase any of these items, you can combine them with your SNAP items. Then, at checkout, you will have to pay for them separately.
How to Use Food Stamps at Publix?
If you’re new to EBT, you may have just received your card. Your EBT card is automatically reloaded every month with your SNAP benefits. Once your application has been approved, you’ll be notified of your monthly benefit amount.
EBT cards work like debit cards. The only difference is that they’re used to purchasing food at stores that accept EBT. Most major grocery chains accept EBT. Additionally, stores typically let customers know by placing a sign at the cash register, outside doors or windows, or at the customer service counter. To see a full list of retailers that accept EBT, simply Google “stores near me that accept EBT.”
Publix even accepts EBT at all store locations and for Publix grocery delivery through the Instacart app. Additionally, Publix also allows EBT for in-store pickup.
How Can I Pay With EBT at Publix?
You can visit your local Publix with EBT and use your SNAP benefits to purchase eligible groceries. If you need to combine eligible and ineligible items, you can do so in the same purchase.
Once at the checkout, let the cashier know you’ll be paying with an EBT card. All items accepted with EBT can be paid for by swiping or tapping the EBT card on the card machine. Then, follow the instructions, including entering your PIN, and complete payment.
You’ll need to pay the remaining balance with another cash source if:
- Your EBT card has less money on it than the total cost of your groceries, or
- Your purchase includes ineligible items
Once you complete your purchase, the total cost will be deducted from that month’s SNAP balance. If you ever have a remaining balance at the end of the month, it will roll over to the next month.
Can you use EBT at Publix Online?
Publix also accepts EBT payments for online grocery orders placed through Instacart. You can use your EBT card for delivery or curbside pickup, making it convenient to shop from home. Just enter your EBT information during checkout on Instacart.
Can I use EBT at Publix for hot or prepared meals?
No, EBT cannot be used to purchase hot or ready-to-eat meals in the Publix deli or bakery sections. However, cold prepared items that require additional cooking may be eligible.
Does Publix accept WIC along with EBT?
Yes, Publix is WIC-certified at many locations, allowing customers to use both WIC and EBT for their purchases.
Are there special discounts for SNAP customers?
While Publix does not offer specific discounts for SNAP customers, their weekly sales and promotions can be combined with SNAP benefits to stretch your budget.
Related Articles You May Read:
Does Kroger Accept EBT, SNAP or Food Stamps?
Conclusion
Publix is a great option for those receiving SNAP benefits as they accept EBT cards both in-store and online through Instacart. This makes grocery shopping more accessible and convenient for those who rely on food assistance programs. If you have any specific questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out to your local Publix store or visit their website for more information.
