For those who rely on EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) for their grocery budget, it can be challenging to find affordable, nutritious food options.
Shopping at Costco with an EBT card can provide access to a wide selection of high-quality, fresh food items at affordable prices.
Costco accepts EBT for the purchase of eligible food items, such as fresh produce, meat, dairy products, and baked goods.
In this article, we will explore in detail what food items can be purchased at Costco with an EBT card, as well as some tips and tricks for getting the most out of your EBT dollars when shopping at Costco.
Does Costco Accept EBT Card or Food Stamps
Yes, Costco accepts EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) cards, also known as food stamps, at all of its locations in the United States except in Maine, Arkansas, Rhode Island, West Virginia, and Wyoming where Costco stores do not exist.
EBT cards can be used to purchase eligible food items such as bread, meat, dairy products, fruits, and vegetables, among others.
However, EBT cards cannot be used to purchase non-food items such as electronics or clothing at Costco. Know, Stores that accept OTC card
Does Costco Accept Pandemic EBT
Yes, Costco does accept Pandemic EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) at all of its locations in the United States.
Pandemic EBT is a federal program that provides assistance to families with children who have lost access to free or reduced-price meals due to school closures or reduced hours as a result of the pandemic.
The program provides benefits on an EBT card that can be used to purchase eligible food items, including groceries and meals, at authorized retailers that accept EBT.
Costco is an authorized retailer for EBT and Pandemic EBT, allowing families to use their benefits to purchase food items at Costco stores.
However, it is essential to note that Pandemic EBT benefits are temporary and subject to specific expiration dates.
Where Can I Use My EBT Card at Costco
Costco is a widely popular retail chain that accepts EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) at all of its locations across the United States, except in Maine, Arkansas, Rhode Island, West Virginia, and Wyoming where Costco stores do not exist.
While Costco is present in most major cities in the US, only three states have fewer than three Costco locations: Oklahoma, Delaware, and Iowa.
Additionally, some state governments in states such as Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Mexico, New Hampshire, South Dakota, and Vermont have limited resources and may have only a few Costco locations, making it challenging for individuals who do not live nearby to shop there.
It is always advisable to check Costco’s website to stay informed about new store openings in your area. Know about, Using EBT card in another state.
What Can I Buy at Costco With EBT Card
EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) cards can be used to purchase eligible food items at Costco, including:
- Bread and bakery products
- Meat and poultry
- Fish and seafood
- Dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt
- Fruits and vegetables
- Cereals and grains
- Snack foods and candy
- Beverages such as juice and water
- Seeds and plants to grow food for personal consumption
- Eggs
- Cheese
- Yogurt
- Butter
- Milk alternatives such as soy milk or almond milk
- Fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables
- Canned fruits and vegetables
- Rice
- Pasta
- Beans
- Canned meat and fish
- Soups and broths
- Baby food and formula
- Frozen meals and entrees
- Nuts and seeds
- Nut butter such as peanut butter or almond butter
- Cooking oils
- Spices and seasonings
- Baking ingredients such as flour and sugar
- Coffee and tea bags.
Note: It is essential to check the local regulations in your state to confirm which items are eligible for purchase with EBT cards.
Related, Food list eligible for OTC card.
What Items Are Not Eligible With EBT at Costco
While Costco accepts EBT for the purchase of eligible food items, there are some restrictions and limitations on what can be purchased. Here are some items that are not eligible for purchase with EBT at Costco:
- Non-food Items: EBT can only be used for the purchase of eligible food items, so non-food items, such as cleaning supplies, toiletries, and clothing, are not eligible for purchase with EBT.
- Prepared Foods: Some prepared foods, such as hot deli items, are not eligible for purchase with EBT. However, pre-packaged cold food items, such as sandwiches and salads, are eligible for purchase with EBT.
- Restricted Items and Beverages: EBT cannot be used to purchase restricted unhygienic beverages and restricted products.
- Pet Food: EBT cannot be used to purchase pet food.
- Vitamins and Supplements: EBT cannot be used to purchase vitamins or dietary supplements.
More, Buying Publix cake using EBT card
Can You Use EBT at Costco Online
No, currently, EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) cannot be used for online purchases at Costco. EBT cards can only be used for in-store purchases at authorized retailers.
While Costco does offer online shopping and delivery services, customers can only use traditional debit and credit cards for online purchases, and EBT is not accepted as a form of payment.
However, customers can use their EBT cards for in-store purchases at Costco and then take advantage of the store’s same-day or two-day delivery options, which may be available in their area. It is essential to note that eligibility for delivery services may vary by location.
Does Costco Accept Ebt in California, Nevada, New York, Washington Texas, Minnesota
Yes, Costco does accept EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) at all of its locations across the United States, including California, Nevada, New York, Washington, Texas, and Minnesota.
some states may have specific rules for using EBT at certain retailers, so it is always best to check with the state’s EBT office or local Costco store for more information on eligible items and purchasing limits.
Know, Do food trucks take EBT card
Does Costco Take EBT on Instacart
No, currently, Costco does not accept EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) as a form of payment for orders placed through Instacart. Instacart is an online grocery ordering and delivery service that allows customers to shop for groceries from their favorite retailers, including Costco, and have them delivered to their doorstep.
While Costco accepts EBT for in-store purchases, the company has not yet extended this payment option to online purchases, including those made through Instacart. As a result, customers using EBT cannot use this form of payment when placing orders through Instacart.
However, it is important to note that Instacart does offer other forms of payment, such as credit cards, debit cards, and gift cards, which customers can use to pay for their orders.
Some customers may be eligible for other types of financial assistance, such as SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits, which can be used for online grocery orders in certain states.
Can You Pay Your Costco Membership Fee With EBT Card
No, currently, Costco does not allow customers to pay for their membership using EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer).
The only accepted forms of payment for Costco memberships are cash, checks, debit cards, and Visa credit cards.
While EBT can be used for eligible food items at Costco stores, it cannot be used to pay membership fees.
However, Costco does offer discounted membership rates for customers who qualify for certain government assistance programs, such as SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits.
Customers who qualify for these programs can present their documentation at the membership desk to receive the discounted rate.
Read about, County Care OTC card
Can You Use Someone Else’s Costco Card at Self Checkout
No, you cannot use someone else’s Costco card at self-checkout or any other checkout at Costco. Costco’s membership policy strictly prohibits the sharing of membership cards, and the company may revoke the membership if they suspect any misuse or violation of the policy.
When making a purchase at Costco, the member whose name is on the card must be present, and they are the only ones authorized to use the card for making purchases.
This policy ensures that Costco is able to maintain accurate membership records and control access to its stores and services.
While self-checkout can be a convenient option for members, it is important to remember that the policy against sharing membership cards applies to all types of transactions, whether at self-checkout or with a cashier.
If a non-member wants to shop at Costco, they can do so by accompanying a member or by purchasing a Costco Cash Card, which can be used to pay for purchases at the store.
Also, Buying toilet paper with OTC card
Some Benefits of Using EBT at Costco
There are several benefits to using EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) at Costco for eligible food items. Here are some of the benefits:
1. Access to High-Quality, Nutritious Food
Costco is known for offering a wide selection of high-quality, fresh food items, including fresh produce, meat, dairy products, and baked goods.
By using EBT at Costco, customers can access these nutritious food options, which can help improve their overall health and well-being.
2. Affordable Prices
Costco offers competitive prices on many of its food items, which can be especially beneficial for customers using EBT, as they may have limited financial resources.
By shopping at Costco, customers can stretch their EBT dollars further and get more food for their money.
3. Convenience
Costco has a large selection of food items, and many of them are available in bulk, which can be especially convenient for customers using EBT.
By purchasing larger quantities of food items, customers can reduce the frequency of their shopping trips, which can save them time and money.
4. Access to Special Deals and Discounts
Costco offers special deals and discounts on many of its food items, which can be especially beneficial for EBT customers.
For example, Costco offers discounts on bulk purchases of certain food items, which can help customers save money.
Conclusion
Using EBT at Costco can provide several benefits for eligible food items, including access to high-quality, nutritious food, affordable prices, convenience, and special deals and discounts.
However, it is important to note that not all food items sold at Costco are eligible for purchase with EBT, and customers should check with their local store or EBT office to confirm which items are eligible for purchase.
By taking advantage of the benefits of using EBT at Costco, customers can improve their access to nutritious, high-quality food options and stretch their food budgets further.
FAQ’s
Can You Buy Costco Pizza with EBT
Yes, After November 5, 2020, Costco’s food court began accepting EBT for the purchase of prepared food items, such as hot dogs, pizza, and beverages. This policy change allows EBT recipients to access affordable, hot food options at Costco’s food court.
Can I use my EBT card to purchase all items at Costco?
No, EBT cards can only be used to purchase specific items that are eligible under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). These include items such as bread, milk, cheese, fruits, vegetables, and meat. Non-food items such as electronics, clothing, and household items are not eligible for purchase with EBT cards.
How do I know which items are eligible for purchase with my EBT card at Costco?
Eligible items for purchase with an EBT card are identified with a sign or label that says “SNAP” or “EBT.” You can also check the eligibility of an item by asking a store associate or referring to the SNAP retailer locator on the USDA website.