Starbucks’ relationship with the Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) system raises questions for those using food assistance programs like SNAP. The EBT card functions like a debit card, allowing users to buy eligible food items. However, Starbucks’ acceptance of EBT isn’t uniform across all locations.
Only certain Starbucks locations, typically those inside grocery stores like Albertsons, Safeway, and Fred Meyer, accept EBT. These kiosks follow the grocery store’s rules, which may permit EBT for SNAP-eligible items. In contrast, corporate-owned, stand-alone Starbucks stores do not accept EBT. This is because Starbucks products are often seen as non-essential luxury items rather than essential groceries, affecting their EBT eligibility.
EBT Eligibility at Starbucks
EBT eligibility at Starbucks depends on the location. Standalone Starbucks stores do not accept EBT cards because their items don’t qualify under SNAP guidelines, which are meant for essential food purchases.
However, licensed Starbucks locations within grocery stores, such as Albertsons, Safeway, and Fred Meyer, may accept EBT for eligible items. These locations follow the grocery store’s policies, which can include EBT acceptance for SNAP-approved purchases.
Here’s a quick overview:
- Standalone Starbucks Stores: No EBT acceptance.
- Licensed Starbucks in Grocery Stores: Yes, but only for SNAP-eligible items.
At licensed locations, only certain items like packaged coffee and unprepared food products are eligible for EBT. Prepared food and beverages, like ready-to-drink coffee or pastries, typically do not qualify.
It’s best to check directly with the specific Starbucks location inside the grocery store to confirm EBT acceptance and eligible items.
Using EBT at Starbucks
EBT cards, used by those receiving SNAP benefits, are generally not accepted at standalone Starbucks locations. However, some licensed Starbucks kiosks inside grocery stores do accept EBT for eligible items, following the grocery store’s policies.
Eligible Purchases with EBT at Starbucks:
- Pre-packaged coffee beans
- Cold beverages
- Snacks
Ineligible Purchases with EBT at Starbucks:
- Prepared hot beverages
- Non-food merchandise
To ensure EBT acceptance and understand which items are eligible, customers should check with the specific grocery store hosting the Starbucks kiosk. EBT can only be used for food items that meet SNAP guidelines, excluding any hot prepared food.
Alternatives to EBT Payments at Starbucks
For customers wishing to make purchases at Starbucks without using an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card, there are several payment alternatives available.
Gift Cards: Starbucks offers gift cards that can be purchased and loaded with funds online or in stores. They provide a convenient alternative for those who may not be able to use EBT cards at Starbucks locations.
Credit/Debit Cards: As a widely accepted form of payment, credit and debit cards are another alternative for customers at both standalone Starbucks cafés and licensed locations.
Starbucks App: The Starbucks mobile app allows customers to preload funds, order ahead, and earn rewards. Money can be added to the app using various payment options, excluding EBT.
Cash: Customers can always opt for traditional cash to make their purchases at all Starbucks outlets.
Contactless Payments: Services such as Apple Pay, Google Wallet, and Samsung Pay are also accepted, providing a quick and secure transaction without the need for physical cards.
Here’s a quick reference on how to use these alternatives:
| Payment Method | How to Use |
|---|---|
| Gift Cards | Purchase and load at Starbucks or online |
| Credit/Debit Cards | Swipe or insert card at the counter |
| Starbucks App | Load funds with non-EBT options, order and pay via the app |
| Cash | Pay directly with cash at the register |
| Contactless Payments | Tap your phone or watch at the reader |
These options ensure that all customers have access to their favorite Starbucks beverages and products, regardless of the payment method they need to use.