Starbucks is a favorite coffee chain known for its tasty coffee, tea, and snacks. A common question is whether you can use your Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card to buy drinks and food items at Starbucks. The answer isn’t simple—it depends on the specific Starbucks location.
Starbucks only accepts EBT cards as a form of payment at some of its licensed locations, such as Starbucks kiosks found in grocery stores like Albertsons, Safeway, and Fred Meyer. However, Starbucks does not accept EBT at any of its stand-alone corporate-operated stores. This means that if you want to use your EBT card at a Starbucks, you should call ahead first to see if the location is a licensed store that accepts EBT.
Starbucks Locations That Accept EBT
For Starbucks locations that accept EBT cards, note that EBT can only be used to purchase eligible food items, and it cannot be used to purchase non-food items such as coffee mugs or gift cards.
How to Use EBT at Starbucks
If you are at a Starbucks location that accepts EBT, using your card to make a purchase is relatively simple. After making your qualifying purchases at the cash register, you can select EBT or SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) as your payment method or tell the cashier if asked. Then, simply insert your EBT card, follow the instructions, and input your pin code.
Starbucks stores that accept EBT also consider the nutritional label on a food’s packaging before allowing customers to use this payment method. This means that not all food items at Starbucks may be eligible for purchase with EBT.
FAQs on EBT and Starbucks Purchases
Can You Use EBT at Starbucks?
Yes, you can use EBT at some Starbucks locations. However, it’s important to note that this only applies to licensed locations, such as those found in grocery stores like Albertsons, Safeway, and Fred Meyer. Starbucks’ company-owned stores do not accept EBT cards.
What Can You Buy at Starbucks with EBT?
You can only purchase cold food and drink items with your EBT card at Starbucks. This includes items like pre-packaged sandwiches, salads, and fruit cups, as well as bottled beverages like water, juice, and iced tea. Hot food and drink items, such as coffee and breakfast sandwiches, are not eligible for purchase with EBT.
How Do You Know if a Starbucks Location Accepts EBT?
If you’re not sure whether a Starbucks location accepts EBT, you can check with the store directly or look for signage indicating that EBT is accepted. Keep in mind that this only applies to licensed locations, so it’s important to confirm with the store before attempting to use your EBT card.
Are There Any Restrictions on Using EBT at Starbucks?
Yes, there are some restrictions on using EBT at Starbucks. For example, you cannot use EBT to purchase gift cards or merchandise like mugs or tumblers.
Overall, while it is possible to use EBT at some Starbucks locations, it’s important to understand the restrictions and limitations that apply. If you’re not sure whether a particular location accepts EBT, it’s always best to check with the store directly.
To learn more about the range of items you can purchase with an EBT card please refer to our comprehensive guide ‘What You Can Buy with EBT’. This guide offers valuable insights into the types of products eligible for EBT purchases.