Sam’s Club is popular for its bulk purchases and discounts, attracting many, including SNAP beneficiaries who use EBT cards for their food purchases. To support these customers, Sam’s Club accepts EBT cards for in-store purchases at all locations. They have integrated EBT payments at their point-of-sale registers and through the Scan & Go feature in their mobile app, making them the first major retailer to offer this convenience.
SNAP users should note that while EBT is accepted in stores, it is not available for online purchases. Additionally, a Sam’s Club membership is required to shop there, even with SNAP benefits. Eligible items for EBT purchases follow SNAP guidelines, meaning non-food items and certain prepared foods are not covered.
Sam’s Club EBT Policy Overview
Sam’s Club allows for the use of Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards across its locations, providing a convenient option for members who participate in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
- Accepted In: All physical club locations
- Technology Used: Scan & Go feature in the Sam’s Club app
- Accepted For: In-store purchases
Limitations and Restrictions
While EBT cards are widely accepted at Sam’s Club, there are notable restrictions. EBT payments are exclusively available for in-store transactions and cannot be used for online purchases or services such as curbside pickup, in-store pickup, or home delivery orders. Furthermore, it’s important for shoppers to be aware that their membership must be active to take advantage of the EBT payment option.
- Not Accepted For:
- Online purchases
- Curbside pickup
- In-store pickup
- Delivery orders
- Membership Required: Yes
Using EBT at Sam’s Club
Sam’s Club accepts EBT for in-store purchases at all locations, however, EBT cannot be used for online purchases.
How to Use EBT In-Store
Customers using EBT cards at Sam’s Club can shop in-store just like they would at any other grocery retailer that accepts EBT. The process is straightforward:
- Shop for eligible items.
- At checkout, swipe the EBT card like a regular debit card.
- Enter the associated PIN.
- The point-of-sale system will deduct the total from the customer’s SNAP benefits.
Online Purchase Eligibility
Sam’s Club’s policy prohibits the use of EBT for online transactions. This includes:
- Online purchases on SamsClub.com
- Curbside pickup orders
- In-store pickup orders
- Home delivery services
EBT cardholders must complete their purchases in person at a Sam’s Club physical location.
Eligible Products for EBT Purchases
When using EBT at Sam’s Club, members have access to a variety of eligible food and beverage options while certain non-food items cannot be purchased.
Food and Beverage Criteria
Eligible food items that members can purchase with their EBT include:
- Fresh Produce: Fruits and vegetables.
- Meat and Poultry: Various cuts and types of fresh, frozen, or packaged meat.
- Dairy Products: Milk, cheese, yogurt, and other dairy items.
- Baked Goods: Bread and cereal products.
- Non-Alcoholic Beverages: Juices, milk, and soft drinks.
These items must be intended for home preparation and consumption. Prepared hot foods sold in-store are not EBT-eligible.
Non-Eligible Items
Items not eligible for EBT purchase at Sam’s Club typically include:
- Alcohol: Beer, wine, and spirits.
- Tobacco: Cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco.
- Non-Food Items: Pet foods, cleaning supplies, paper products, and personal hygiene items.
- Hot Food: Foods that are hot at the point of sale.
Combining EBT with Other Payment Methods
Members can combine their EBT card with other forms of payment if needed. While an EBT card may cover most grocery items, for non-SNAP eligible products or if the SNAP balance is insufficient, members can use:
- Cash
- Credit Cards
- Debit Cards
- Sam’s Club Gift Cards
This offers flexibility for members to manage their purchases fully within one transaction.
Troubleshooting Common EBT Issues at Sam’s Club
When using EBT at Sam’s Club, members might occasionally encounter payment declines or technical difficulties. Understanding the reasons and solutions helps ensure a smooth transaction.
Payment Declines
- Incorrect Card Information: Ensure the EBT card number, PIN, and other details are entered correctly. Mistakes can lead to a declined transaction.
- Insufficient Funds: Check the EBT account balance before shopping to confirm adequate funds for the purchase.
- Non-Eligible Items: Sam’s Club allows EBT for SNAP-eligible items only. Ensure all items in the basket qualify for EBT purchase.
Technical Problems and Solutions
- POS System Issues: If the point-of-sale system is down, try another register or ask for assistance from Sam’s Club employees.
- EBT Card Errors: If an EBT card is not working, it may be damaged. Contact the number on the back of the card for a replacement.
- Connectivity Problems: Network connectivity can affect card transactions. Wait for a moment and try the transaction again. If persistent, seek help in-store.