Big Lots, a well-known retail giant, offers a wide range of products, including furniture and groceries, at discounted prices. For shoppers using government assistance programs like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), understanding payment options is crucial. Big Lots accommodates these customers by accepting various payment methods, including EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) cards.
While many major retailers accept EBT, it’s important for SNAP users to know that most Big Lots locations also accept EBT cards for eligible purchases. This makes it easier for SNAP participants to buy groceries and other food items at Big Lots. However, it’s advisable to check with your local store, as EBT acceptance can vary by location.
Eligible Items for EBT Purchase at Big Lots
Big Lots accepts EBT for a range of grocery items, providing customers with a variety of food options. These items adhere strictly to SNAP program guidelines.
Food and Beverage Eligibility
Items one can purchase at Big Lots with EBT include, but are not limited to:
- Fruits and Vegetables: Fresh produce is eligible for purchase.
- Meat, Fish, and Poultry: A variety of protein options are available.
- Dairy Products: This includes milk, cheese, and related products.
- Breads and Cereals: Staple food items like bread, rice, and cereal qualify.
- Non-Alcoholic Beverages: Juices and soft drinks can be bought with EBT.
Non-Food Item Restrictions
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) restricts EBT from being used for non-food items. At Big Lots, these restrictions include:
- Alcohol and Tobacco: Products like beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes, or tobacco are not permissible.
- Non-Food Household Items: Cleaning supplies, paper products, and other household goods cannot be purchased with EBT.
- Prepared Foods: Items meant to be eaten in the store or hot foods ready for immediate consumption are excluded.
- Vitamins and Medicines: Over-the-counter drugs and dietary supplements are not EBT-eligible.
How to Use EBT at Big Lots
Big Lots allows customers with SNAP benefits to make purchases using their EBT cards, providing a convenient shopping experience for SNAP recipients.
EBT Payment Process
At Big Lots, shoppers with EBT cards may select eligible food items and proceed to the checkout lanes. Here’s how the payment process works:
- At the Register: Present the EBT card to the cashier when ready to pay.
- Payment Method: Indicate that the payment will be made with an EBT card.
- Eligible Items: Only items eligible under SNAP will be approved for payment via EBT.
Pin Authentication and Receipt
For security and transaction verification, Big Lots requires the following steps:
- PIN Entry: Customers must enter their Personal Identification Number (PIN) on the store’s payment keypad to authorize the transaction.
- Transaction Receipt: After the transaction is completed, customers receive a receipt detailing their purchase and the remaining EBT balance.
EBT Online Shopping at Big Lots
Customers interested in utilizing EBT for online purchases at Big Lots will find specific guidelines and a straightforward shopping process to follow.
Online EBT Policy
Currently, Big Lots does not offer the option to use EBT cards for online transactions. The use of EBT at Big Lots is confined to in-store purchases. They require customers to present their EBT cards at a physical location to complete a purchase.
Online Shopping Process
For customers looking to shop online at Big Lots, it is important to know that while the store accepts various forms of payment, EBT is not among them for online purchases. Shoppers must choose alternative payment methods such as credit cards, debit cards, or gift cards when checking out on the Big Lots website.