Costco, the popular wholesale retailer, accepts EBT cards and SNAP benefits at all of its warehouse locations across the United States. Customers can use their EBT cards to purchase SNAP-approved groceries and food items at Costco stores, providing access to bulk savings for eligible individuals and families.

The acceptance of EBT and SNAP at Costco allows beneficiaries to stretch their food budgets further by taking advantage of the company’s competitive pricing on a wide range of products. While EBT cards can be used for in-store purchases, it’s important to note that Costco does not currently accept EBT payments for online orders through their website.

Costco adheres to state regulations regarding EBT-eligible items. Shoppers can use their benefits to buy nutritious foods like fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy products, and bread. However, certain restrictions apply, and EBT cannot be used for non-food items, prepared hot foods, or Costco memberships.

Understanding Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT)

EBT is a modern system for distributing government food assistance benefits. It replaces paper food stamps with a convenient debit card-like system.

What Is EBT?

Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) is the electronic system used to deliver Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. EBT cards function like debit cards, allowing recipients to purchase eligible food items at authorized retailers.

The system transfers funds from a government account to the retailer’s account to pay for purchases. EBT cards are more secure and efficient than paper food stamps.

Recipients receive their benefits electronically each month. They can check their balance by phone, online, or at ATMs.

The SNAP Program and EBT

SNAP, formerly known as the Food Stamp Program, provides nutrition assistance to eligible low-income individuals and families. The program aims to reduce food insecurity and improve access to healthy food choices.

EBT cards are the primary method for distributing SNAP benefits. Recipients can use their EBT cards to purchase:

• Fruits and vegetables
• Meat, poultry, and fish
• Dairy products
• Breads and cereals
• Seeds and plants that produce food

SNAP benefits cannot be used for non-food items, alcohol, tobacco, or prepared hot foods. The program is federally funded but administered by state agencies.

Costco’s Acceptance of EBT

Costco accepts EBT cards at all of its warehouse locations across the United States. Customers can use their EBT benefits to purchase eligible food items, following state-specific guidelines for SNAP-approved products.

EBT at Costco Warehouses

Costco welcomes EBT cardholders at all its warehouse stores. Customers can use their SNAP benefits to buy a wide range of eligible food items. These typically include fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy products, and pantry staples.

It’s important to note that EBT cannot be used for all products at Costco. Non-food items, alcohol, and hot prepared foods are generally excluded from EBT purchases.

Costco adheres to state-specific regulations regarding EBT-eligible items. For a detailed list of approved products, customers should contact their state’s SNAP agency.

EBT Payment Methods at Costco

Costco accepts EBT cards as a payment method at the checkout counter in its physical warehouse locations. Customers can swipe their EBT cards to pay for eligible items, similar to using a debit card.

For mixed purchases containing both EBT-eligible and non-eligible items, Costco allows split transactions. Customers can pay for SNAP-approved items with their EBT card and use another payment method for the remaining balance.

It’s worth noting that Costco does not currently accept EBT for online purchases or delivery orders. EBT transactions are limited to in-store purchases at Costco warehouse locations.

Eligible and Ineligible Items for EBT Purchases at Costco

Costco accepts EBT cards for purchasing SNAP-eligible food items. Customers can use their benefits to buy a wide range of groceries, but certain restrictions apply.

Eligible Food Items

EBT cardholders can purchase many food items at Costco using their SNAP benefits. These include:

• Fruits and vegetables (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• Meat, poultry, and fish
• Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt
• Breads and cereals
• Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
• Seeds and plants that produce food for the household

Costco’s bulk packaging allows SNAP recipients to stock up on pantry staples and save money. Customers can buy large quantities of rice, beans, pasta, and other non-perishable goods with their EBT cards.

Restrictions on EBT Purchases

While SNAP benefits cover many food items, several restrictions exist for EBT purchases at Costco:

• Hot foods and prepared meals ready for immediate consumption
• Alcoholic beverages and tobacco products
• Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
• Non-food items like cleaning supplies, paper products, and cosmetics
• Pet foods
• Hygiene products and toiletries

Costco’s food court items are also ineligible for EBT purchase. Customers cannot use their SNAP benefits to buy Costco’s famous hot dogs, pizza slices, or other prepared foods sold in the food court area.

Costco Membership and EBT Policy

Costco’s membership structure and EBT acceptance policies are designed to accommodate various customer needs while adhering to government regulations. The warehouse club offers specific membership tiers and has clear guidelines for EBT usage.

Types of Costco Memberships

Costco offers two primary membership options: Gold Star and Executive. Gold Star membership is the basic tier, providing access to all Costco warehouses worldwide and Costco.com.

Executive membership includes additional benefits such as 2% cash back on eligible Costco purchases and extra discounts on select Costco services. Both membership types allow members to bring up to two guests per visit.

Membership fees are required annually and can be paid using various methods, excluding EBT cards.

Policy on EBT and Membership

Costco accepts EBT cards for eligible purchases in all its U.S. warehouse locations. However, a valid Costco membership is still required to shop at the store, even when using EBT.

The cashier scans the membership card before processing the EBT payment. EBT cards can be used for SNAP-eligible items, which typically include most food products except prepared hot foods.

Costco follows state-specific regulations regarding EBT purchases. Members should check with their local SNAP agency for the most up-to-date information on eligible items.

It’s important to note that EBT cards cannot be used for online purchases at Costco.com or to pay for membership fees.

Shopping at Costco with EBT

Costco accepts EBT cards for eligible food items, allowing SNAP recipients to access bulk groceries at competitive prices. This opens up opportunities for smart shopping and budget-friendly meal planning.

Bulk Buying with EBT

Costco’s bulk offerings provide excellent value for EBT users. Large packages of staples like rice, beans, and pasta stretch food budgets further. Frozen vegetables and fruits in bulk quantities offer nutritious options year-round.

EBT cards can purchase meat in family-size packs, reducing per-pound costs. Dairy products like cheese and yogurt are available in larger sizes, ideal for households on SNAP benefits.

It’s important to note that non-food items and prepared foods are not EBT-eligible at Costco. Shoppers should separate eligible and non-eligible items at checkout.

Budget-Friendly Options for SNAP Recipients

Costco’s private label, Kirkland Signature, offers high-quality products at lower prices. Many of these items are EBT-eligible, including canned goods, cereals, and baking supplies.

SNAP beneficiaries can take advantage of Costco’s rotating stock of seasonal produce. Buying fruits and vegetables in season ensures better prices and quality.

Costco’s meat department provides value packs that can be portioned and frozen for future use. This strategy helps SNAP recipients maximize their benefits and reduce food waste.

EBT users should compare unit prices to ensure bulk buying truly offers savings. Sometimes, smaller packages may be more cost-effective for certain products.

EBT Online and at Costco Food Court

Costco’s policies regarding EBT usage vary between online orders and food court purchases. These differences impact how customers can utilize their benefits at the warehouse retailer.

Using EBT for Online Orders

Costco does not currently accept EBT payments for online orders placed directly through their website. This limitation extends to grocery delivery services as well. However, some third-party options exist for EBT holders seeking to order Costco items online.

Instacart partners with Costco in certain areas to offer EBT-eligible grocery delivery. This service allows customers to use their SNAP benefits for qualifying food items. Availability may vary by location.

Amazon Fresh is another potential option for EBT users to access some Costco products online. While not directly affiliated with Costco, Amazon Fresh carries select Kirkland Signature items that can be purchased using EBT benefits.

EBT at Costco Food Court

The Costco food court typically does not accept EBT payments. Most items sold at the food court are considered prepared foods, which are ineligible for purchase with SNAP benefits under federal regulations.

There have been rare reports of EBT transactions at some food court locations. These instances appear to be exceptions rather than standard policy. Customers should not expect to use their EBT cards for food court purchases.

Items like hot pizza, rotisserie chickens, and other ready-to-eat meals fall outside of approved EBT categories. Cold food items intended for home preparation may be eligible in certain cases, but this is not common at Costco food courts.

State Regulations and Variances

Costco’s EBT acceptance is subject to state-specific regulations and SNAP agency policies. These guidelines determine eligible items and purchasing procedures for EBT cardholders at Costco locations.

State-Specific EBT Guidelines

Each state sets its own rules for EBT usage at Costco. Some states allow broader item eligibility, while others have stricter limitations. For example, California’s Food Assistance Program provides a “Golden State Advantage Card” that enables EBT recipients to purchase food at Costco.

Eligible items typically include staple groceries and essential food products. However, restrictions often apply to prepared foods, hot meals, and non-food items. Costco adheres to these state-specific regulations to ensure compliance.

EBT cardholders should familiarize themselves with their state’s guidelines before shopping at Costco. This helps avoid confusion at checkout and ensures a smooth purchasing experience.

SNAP Agency Policies

The USDA oversees SNAP, but individual state agencies manage the program’s implementation. These agencies establish policies that Costco must follow when accepting EBT payments.

SNAP agencies provide resources for EBT cardholders, including lists of eligible items and contact information for questions. Costco recommends contacting the local SNAP office for detailed information on EBT usage at their stores.

Some SNAP agencies have introduced programs to expand EBT acceptance. While Costco doesn’t currently accept EBT for online orders, certain SNAP-authorized retailers may offer this option. EBT cardholders should check with their state agency for the most up-to-date information on online grocery shopping options.

Additional Costco Services and EBT

Costco offers services beyond its warehouse shopping experience. EBT and SNAP benefits have specific rules when it comes to Costco gas stations and shop cards.

Costco Gas Stations and EBT

Costco gas stations do not accept EBT cards for fuel purchases. This restriction applies to all Costco locations across the United States. SNAP benefits are designed for food items and cannot be used to buy gasoline or other automotive products.

Members looking to save on fuel costs at Costco will need to use alternative payment methods such as cash, debit cards, or Costco Shop Cards. Some states offer separate programs to assist with transportation costs, but these are not typically usable at Costco gas stations.

Costco Shop Cards and SNAP Benefits

Costco Shop Cards, the retailer’s version of gift cards, cannot be purchased using EBT or SNAP benefits. These cards are considered non-food items and fall outside the scope of SNAP-eligible products.

However, if a member already owns a Costco Shop Card, they can use it to buy SNAP-eligible groceries within the warehouse. This can be useful for budgeting or gifting purposes. When using a Shop Card for a mixed purchase of eligible and non-eligible items, separate transactions may be required.

• SNAP-eligible items: Can be purchased with EBT or Shop Card
• Non-eligible items: Require alternative payment method
• Mixed purchases: May need transaction splitting

Summary

Costco accepts EBT cards for SNAP-eligible food purchases at all warehouse locations. Members can use their EBT benefits to buy groceries and other qualifying items.

Certain restrictions apply. EBT cannot be used for Costco food court purchases, online orders, or gas. The annual Costco membership fee is not covered by SNAP benefits.

Costco follows state regulations regarding EBT-eligible products. Members should check with their local SNAP agency for a complete list of approved items.

While EBT provides access to food at Costco, it’s important to note limitations. Non-food items and prepared hot foods are typically excluded from SNAP purchases.

For those relying on EBT, Costco can offer bulk buying options for eligible foods. This may help stretch benefits further through lower per-unit costs on many items.

EBT users should be prepared to pay for ineligible items separately. Having an alternative payment method is advised when shopping at Costco with SNAP benefits.