Shopping for groceries with EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) or SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits can sometimes be confusing, especially when it comes to specialty stores like Trader Joe’s. If you're wondering whether Trader Joe’s accepts EBT, you're in the right place.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover:
What Are EBT and SNAP?
Does Trader Joe’s Accept EBT/SNAP?
What Can You Buy with EBT at Trader Joe’s?
Trader Joe’s EBT Policy Compared to Other Stores
Common Questions About Using EBT at Trader Joe’s
Let’s dive in!
Before discussing Trader Joe’s EBT policy, it’s important to understand what EBT and SNAP are.
EBT is the system used to distribute government assistance benefits, including:
SNAP (food assistance)
TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families)
Other state-run programs
Recipients receive an EBT card, which works like a debit card, allowing them to purchase eligible food items at approved retailers.
SNAP is the largest food assistance program in the U.S., helping low-income individuals and families buy groceries. Benefits are loaded onto an EBT card monthly.
Yes! Trader Joe’s does accept EBT/SNAP benefits at all of its store locations across the United States.
However, there are a few key things to keep in mind:
EBT cards are only accepted in-store – Trader Joe’s does not currently accept EBT for online orders or delivery.
Only eligible food items can be purchased – Non-food items, alcohol, and hot prepared foods are not covered.
Store policies may vary slightly – While most Trader Joe’s locations accept EBT, it’s always good to confirm with your local store.
Using your EBT card at Trader Joe’s is simple. Follow these steps:
Shop for Eligible Items – Fill your cart with SNAP-approved groceries (more on this below).
Separate Non-EBT Items – If you’re buying non-eligible items (like wine or household goods), let the cashier know so they can ring them separately.
Swipe Your EBT Card – At checkout, swipe your EBT card like a debit card.
Enter Your PIN – You’ll need to enter your secure 4-digit PIN to complete the transaction.
Pay for Non-EBT Items Separately – Use another payment method (cash, debit, or credit) for any ineligible items.
No. Currently, Trader Joe’s does not offer online EBT payments for pickup or delivery orders.
SNAP benefits cover most grocery items, but there are restrictions. Here’s what you can and cannot buy with EBT at Trader Joe’s:
Fresh fruits and vegetables
Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt)
Bread, cereal, and grains
Snack foods (chips, nuts, crackers)
Non-alcoholic beverages (juice, soda, coffee)
Frozen foods (frozen fruits, veggies, meals)
Seeds and plants that produce food
Alcohol (wine, beer, etc.)
Hot prepared foods (rotisserie chicken, ready-to-eat meals)
Vitamins and supplements
Cleaning supplies and household items
Pet food
Gift cards
Trader Joe’s is one of many grocery chains that accept EBT. Here’s how it compares to other popular stores: Does trader joe's take ebt
Store
Accepts EBT?
Online EBT?
Accepts EBT for Delivery?
Trader Joe’s
✅ Yes
❌ No
❌ No
Walmart
✅ Yes
✅ Yes
✅ Yes (in select areas)
Whole Foods
✅ Yes
✅ Yes (Amazon)
✅ Yes (Amazon Fresh)
Kroger
✅ Yes
✅ Yes
✅ Yes
Aldi
✅ Yes
✅ Yes (Instacart)
✅ Yes (Instacart)
While Trader Joe’s doesn’t offer online EBT payments, its in-store acceptance makes it a great option for SNAP users looking for high-quality, affordable groceries.
Yes! All Trader Joe’s stores in the U.S. accept EBT.
Yes, if your EBT card includes cash benefits (TANF), you can withdraw cash at Trader Joe’s, but only if the store has an ATM that supports EBT cash withdrawals.
Yes! You can combine manufacturer coupons with EBT purchases to save even more.
Some stores participate in discount programs like Double Up Food Bucks, which matches EBT spending on fresh produce. Check with your local Trader Joe’s to see if they participate.
No. SNAP benefits cannot be used to purchase gift cards.
Trader Joe’s is a great place to shop if you use EBT/SNAP benefits. With its wide selection of affordable, high-quality groceries, you can stretch your food budget while enjoying unique and healthy options.
Just remember:
EBT is accepted in-store only (no online orders).
Only eligible food items can be purchased (no alcohol, hot foods, or non-food items).
Check with your local store if you have any doubts about their EBT policy.
We hope this guide helps you make the most of your SNAP benefits at Trader Joe’s! Happy shopping!