If you have an EBT card, or if you are under the Supplemental Assistance Nutrition Program (SNAP), you might be wondering if you can spend your credit at Sam’s Club.
The number of people applying and joining SNAP increases each year. More and more grocery stores, farmers’ markets, and wholesalers are starting to accept payments using an EBT card. It is especially beneficial to purchase goods in bulk at a wholesale store.
So, does Sam’s Club accept EBT? Can I use my EBT card for online purchases at Sam’s Club? We’ll tell you all that and more so keep reading to find out!
Does Sam’s Club Accept EBT?
Yes and no. You can use your EBT card at any Sam’s Club store. However, using an EBT card as a form of payment for online purchases is not allowed. You also need to be a registered member to use your EBT/SNAP at Sam’s Club.
Sam’s Club offers two different memberships. The most basic of the two being a Club Member and the other being a Plus Member. A normal Club Membership costs $45 per year and a Plus Membership is $100/Year.
Having to join their membership might seem counterintuitive but there is a good reason as to why. Their memberships come with amazing in-club deals that are only applicable if you have a membership.
These in-club deals help you fully utilize your EBT/SNAP benefits. If you’ve purchased a membership, a complimentary membership can be redeemed for a household member. Another great deal going on now is a free $45 eGift card for every new membership registration.
This means that the $45 spent on a Club membership is “returned” in the form of a free Club membership, as well as a $45 eGift card. The eGift card offer expires on the 31st of January 2023. So be sure to sign-up before then!
How To Use EBT at Sam’s Club?
Using your EBT/SNAP at Sam’s Club is just like paying with a debit/credit card. Your EBT/SNAP works just like a prepaid credit card. Here are a few simple steps on how to use your EBT/SNAP at Sam’s Club:
- Proceed to the checkout counters at your Sam’s Club
- Present your EBT/SNAP card to the cashier
- Insert your PIN into the payment terminal
- Grab your purchased items and depart from Sam’s Club
It is as straightforward as using any other payment method. Be sure to check your balance in your EBT/SNAP account before purchasing any items.
If there are not enough funds in your EBT/SNAP, the transaction will be declined. You will be notified by the cashier and will have to use an alternative payment option.
Additionally, if there are items not covered by EBT/SNAP, you will not be able to use your EBT/SNAP to make the purchase. Again, a different payment method will have to be used to purchase your items.
Sam’s Club has a website where all their accepted payment methods are listed. This also includes any terms and conditions that come with those payment methods.
Can I Use EBT At Sam’s Club At Self-Checkout?
Yes, you can use EBT/SNAP at any self-checkout at Sam’s Club. EBT/SNAP is an accepted payment method at self-checkouts.
Remember that Sam’s Club’s self-checkout service is not to be confused with the “Scan and Go” feature on their mobile app.
How to Use EBT At Sam’s Club’s Self-Checkout?
Sam’s Club self-checkout is just like any other checkout. Instead of using cash or other payment methods, you can use EBT/SNAP as your preferred payment method. Here’s how to do it:
- Scan your goods at the self-checkout station.
- Place them in the designated bagging area.
- Insert your EBT/SNAP card into the payment terminal or present it to your cashier.
- Input your PIN number into the same payment terminal.
- Take your receipt and purchased items.
Some stores require you to separate your EBT items from your non-EBT items. Sam’s Club does not require you to do so.
In short, using your EBT/SNAP at self-checkout is the same as using it at a normal checkout counter. The only difference is the location of these counters.
What is Sam’s Club Scan and Go?
The Scan and Go feature lets you pay for your items before walking out of the store. It turns your phone into a barcode scanner, letting you scan your own items. Let’s see how it works.
- Download the Sam’s Club app on your device.
- Open the app and tap on the Scan and Go icon on the top left of your screen.
- Enter your Sam’s Club membership details.
- Scan the barcode on the items you want to purchase.
- Pay for your items directly in the Sam’s Club app.
- Show your QR code receipt to a Sam’s Club employee on your way out.
Sam’s Club has made it extra convenient for you to purchase your goods without waiting in line at a checkout counter. However, you will need to have an active membership in order to use this feature.
Additional Resources
If you want to know more about which retailer accepts EBT, you may be interested in:
- Does Food Lion Take EBT?
- Does Kroger Accept EBT?
- Does DoorDash Take EBT?
- Does Target Accept EBT?
- Does Shipt Accept EBT?
- Does Costco Take EBT?
- Does Whole Foods Accept EBT Cards?
- Does Amazon Take EBT?
Conclusion
Using your EBT/SNAP at Sam’s Club has never been easier. With the addition of self-checkout counters, you can opt to use your EBT/SNAP as a payment method there. Having said that, you are not able to use your EBT/SNAP on online purchases at Sam’s Club.
A membership is needed in order to use your EBT/SNAP. These memberships come with an annual fee. However, a Sam’s Club membership comes with many perks and discounts.
One useful benefit of being a Sam’s Club member is the Snap and Go feature. eGift cards, item-specific promotions, and complimentary memberships are all part of being a Sam’s Club member.
Do you think Sam’s Club should implement EBT/SNAP for online purchases? What about curbside orders? Let us know in the comments below!