If you’re a recipient of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or other state-administered benefit programs, you may be wondering if you can use your Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card to make purchases at Sam’s Club.
The good news is that Sam’s Club accepts EBT cards for eligible purchases, making it possible for SNAP recipients to shop for groceries and household essentials at this popular wholesale retailer.
In this article, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide on how to use an EBT card at Sam’s Club, along with answers to some frequently asked questions about using EBT benefits at this store.
Does Sam’s Club Take EBT
Yes, Sam’s Club accepts EBT cards for eligible purchases. However, not all Sam’s Club locations accept EBT, so it’s a good idea to check with your local store before shopping.
But not all items in the store may be eligible for purchase with EBT benefits, so it’s important to be aware of eligible items before making your purchases.
How to Use an EBT Card at Sam’s Club
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use your EBT card at Sam’s Club using the Scan & Go mobile application:
- First, download the Sam’s Club Scan & Go app from the App Store or Google Play Store.
- Once you have downloaded the app, open it and sign in to your Sam’s Club account. If you don’t have an account, you can create one directly from the app.
- Next, select the “Scan & Go” option from the app’s menu and begin scanning the items you wish to purchase as you shop.
- Once you have scanned all the items you wish to purchase, proceed to the checkout screen by selecting the “Checkout” button.
- At the checkout screen, you will see an option to “Add an EBT card.” Select this option.
- You will be prompted to enter your EBT SNAP card information, including your card number and PIN. Once you have entered this information, select “Save” to continue.
- Next, select “Slide to pay” to complete your transaction.
- You will then be prompted to verify your PIN. Enter your PIN and select “OK” to continue.
- Once your PIN has been verified, a QR code will appear on the screen. Present this code to the exit greeter as you leave the store.
Note: It’s important to note that not all Sam’s Club locations accept EBT cards, so it’s a good idea to check with your local store before using the Scan & Go app to purchase your EBT SNAP benefits.
How to Use an EBT Card at Sam’s Club Offline
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use your EBT card at Sam’s Club offline:
- First, locate the items you wish to purchase with EBT and bring them to the checkout area.
- Let the cashier know that you will be using an EBT card to pay for your purchases.
- Provide your EBT card to the cashier for payment.
- The cashier will then swipe your EBT card and enter the amount of the purchase.
- If there is a balance remaining after the EBT payment, you can pay the balance with cash, debit card, or credit card.
- Once your payment has been processed, the cashier will provide you with a receipt for your purchase.
What Can You Buy at Sam’s Club With EBT
You can use your EBT card to purchase eligible food items at Sam’s Club, including:
- Dairy products, such as milk, and cheese
- Nonveg and poultry
- Fruits and vegetables
- Bread and cereals
- Snack foods and desserts
- Seeds and plants to grow food for personal consumption
However, certain items are not eligible for purchase with EBT benefits, such as:
- Alco_ho_lic beverages
- Tob_acc_o products
- Vitamins and supplements
- Non-food items, such as paper products and cleaning supplies
- Prepared foods that are intended to be eaten in the store
Is It Safe to Use EBT at Sam’s Club
Yes, it is safe to use EBT at Sam’s Club, just as it is safe to use any other payment method. Sam’s Club uses secure payment systems to protect your payment information when you use your EBT card for purchases.
However, it’s important to take precautions to protect your EBT card and personal information, such as keeping your PIN confidential, covering the keypad when entering your PIN, and reporting any lost or stolen cards immediately.
Additionally, it’s a good idea to check your card balance regularly to monitor your transactions and detect any potential unauthorized charges.
About Extra Charges to Use EBT at Sam’s Club
No, there are no extra charges to use your EBT card at Sam’s Club for eligible purchases. However, it’s important to note that you will not be able to use your EBT benefits to pay for membership fees or any non-eligible items, and you will need to pay for those items with a separate payment method.
Also, some states may charge a sales tax on eligible EBT purchases, but this varies by state and is not specific to Sam’s Club.
If you have any questions about the use of your EBT benefits at Sam’s Club or any other retailer, you can contact your state’s EBT program for more information.
Related: Transferring EBT cash to debit card online easily.
Can I Use Someone else’s EBT Card at Sam’s Club
No, it is not legal to use someone else’s EBT card for purchases, even with their permission. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which is the program that provides EBT benefits, is intended to help low-income households meet their nutritional needs, and the benefits are provided specifically to the eligible household.
It’s important to note that using someone else’s EBT card for purchases that you are not entitled to could result in serious consequences, including fines, legal charges, and the loss of your eligibility for benefits.
Additionally, retailers who accept EBT payments are required to verify that the cardholder is present and that the card is being used for eligible purchases, so using someone else’s EBT card could also result in the retailer losing authorization to accept EBT payments.
In short, it is not legal or ethical to use someone else’s EBT card for purchases.
Does Sam’s Club Accept EBT in California
Yes, Sam’s Club accepts EBT in California for eligible purchases. However, it’s important to note that not all Sam’s Club locations accept EBT, so it’s a good idea to check with your local store before shopping.
Related: Guide for checking OTC card balance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, using an EBT card at Sam’s Club can be a convenient and cost-effective way to shop for groceries and other household items.
By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily use your EBT card to make eligible purchases at Sam’s Club, whether you choose to shop in-store or use the Scan & Go mobile app.
Remember to be mindful of the rules and restrictions surrounding EBT benefits, and to always verify that an item is eligible for purchase with your EBT card before making a transaction.
With a little bit of planning and preparation, you can make the most of your EBT benefits and enjoy the many benefits of shopping at Sam’s Club.
FAQ’s
What do I do if my EBT card is not working at Sam’s Club?
If your EBT card is not working at Sam’s Club, first make sure that you are trying to purchase eligible items and that you have a sufficient balance on your card. If you are still having trouble, contact the customer service desk at Sam’s Club for assistance.
Can I use my EBT card to purchase bulk items at Sam’s Club?
Yes, you can use your EBT card to purchase eligible bulk items at Sam’s Club, as long as they are intended for home consumption. However, it’s important to be aware of eligible items before making your purchases.
Can I use my EBT card to purchase baby formula at Sam’s Club?
Yes, eligible baby formula can be purchased with EBT benefits at Sam’s Club. However, other non-eligible baby items, such as diapers or wipes, cannot be purchased with EBT benefits.
Can I use my EBT card to purchase a birthday cake at Sam’s Club?
Yes, you can use your EBT card to purchase an eligible birthday cake at Sam’s Club. However, non-eligible items, such as decorations or non-food items, cannot be purchased with EBT benefits.
Can you use EBT at Sam’s Club bakery?
Yes, you can use your EBT card to purchase eligible items at Sam’s Club bakery, such as bread and other bakery products that are intended for home consumption. However, prepared foods that are meant to be eaten in the store, like hot dogs or pizza slices, are not eligible for purchase with EBT benefits.