Does Target Take Food Stamps? Know Before You Go
This information is current as of April 7, 2022.
41 million Americans participate in the USDA’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Those who receive food stamps may have questions about where they can shop for groceries. Big box stores like Walmart, Target, and Amazon are convenient one-stop shops for busy folks and families. These retail stores are perfect for shopping for home goods, electronics, clothing, furniture, and groceries.
The question is, does Target take SNAP or EBT, formerly known as food stamps? Yes, you can shop at Target for more than 4,500 EBT-eligible groceries. What’s more, you can also shop online at Target.com for food using EBT. In this blog article, you’ll get answers and information on topics including:
- What’s the Difference Between SNAP, EBT, and Food Stamps?
- How Do You Qualify for SNAP?
- How Do You Apply for SNAP in Your State?
- Does Target Take Food Stamps?
- What Can You Buy at Target With Food Stamps?
- Do Walmart and Amazon Take EBT?
What’s the Difference Between SNAP, EBT, and Food Stamps?
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), previously known as the Food Stamp Program, is a federal program that helps low- and no-income Americans buy food.
Electronic Benefit Transfer Card (EBT) is a digital system allowing SNAP recipients to pay for food using their SNAP benefits. Every time a SNAP user buys something at an authorized SNAP retail store, money is taken from their SNAP EBT to pay back the store for that food purchase. All 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and Guam use and accept EBT. Since 2004, EBT has been the only way SNAP is provided to SNAP participants.
How Do You Qualify for SNAP?
To qualify for SNAP benefits, you must complete an application in your state and meet specific income, work, and resource requirements. The government benefits program also requires that you be a U.S. citizen or a lawfully present non-citizen.
Although SNAP is a federal program, you will have to sign up at your local state office.
The good news is once you’re approved for SNAP benefits by your state agency, you will receive benefits starting with the date you submitted your application.
Benefits can expire every 6, 12, or 24 months. The number of months can vary depending on your circumstances. Once your benefits expire, you’ll be asked to prove if you still need SNAP help.
How Do You Apply for SNAP in Your State?
You can apply for SNAP in one of three ways:
- Completing an application online
- By phone or calling your local SNAP office
- Visiting your local SNAP office
Sometimes situations prevent you from applying online, by phone, or in person. Then, you can designate an authorized representative to apply and interview for SNAP benefits on your behalf. You’ll need to follow your state’s rules and provide this information in writing.
Visit the state directory website to apply with your state SNAP agency.
Does Target Take Food Stamps?
Target stores have a loyal following. From its welcoming layout and eye-catching product displays to its trendy offerings, Target is a favorite among many. In fact, according to YouGov Ratings, 69% of Americans have a favorable opinion of Target, making it one of America’s most famous department stores.
As of 2021, Target operates 1,926 stores throughout the United States. California is the state with the most Target Stores – there are 307 stores in California.
It’s nice to know that Target welcomes SNAP EBT for purchases of grocery items. A quick search on Target.com shows that more than 4,500 items are eligible for SNAP EBT.
What Can You Buy at Target With Food Stamps?
Formerly known as the Food Stamps Program, SNAP helps low- and no-income individuals buy healthy and nutritious foods, including:
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Dairy products
- Vegetables and fruits
- Cereals and bread
- Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
- Food-producing plants and seeds
Do Walmart and Amazon Take EBT?
Like Target, Walmart and Amazon accept SNAP EBT on all items that fit the SNAP requirements to purchase grocery items.
Did you know that you can pay for Walmart online grocery with EBT in all but five states? Unfortunately, if you live in Arkansas, Alaska, Louisiana, Maine, and Montana, you can’t pay for your groceries online. However, you can purchase groceries online and pay with your EBT card when you pick up your order at the store.
Enjoy Your Shopping Experience!
Life gets busy. It’s good to know you have options and can shop for groceries with SNAP benefits at Targets throughout the U.S. If you’re shopping and haven’t taken advantage of cash-back apps, try combining them with your SNAP benefits to always get the most bang for your buck.
Over the years, Target has added to its grocery selection. As a result, the store offers an excellent selection of fresh food, famous brand names, and Target’s Good & Gather label.
When the pandemic hit, many stores were forced to close. However, because Target sells grocery items, it was allowed to stay open, giving shoppers various products.
Save Money on Your Wireless Phone Service
Did you know that if you qualify for government benefit programs like SNAP, you may also be eligible for Lifeline or the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)? Both Lifeline and ACP are programs run by the government that help low-income consumers receive free or deeply discounted communication services.
Click here to find out more and apply for this valuable benefit.
Get a Tablet for $10.01
If you qualify, you can get an 8″ tablet for just $10.01. To get started, apply here!
