Does Trader Joe's Accept EBT?

Recently qualified for EBT and wondering where you can shop? Not all grocery stores accept this method of payment. But if you're a Trader Joe's fan, we've got good news: The retailer accepts EBT for many of its food products.

For those unfamiliar, EBT stands for Electronic Benefits Transfer. It's also referred to as SNAP, Link, or CalFresh, depending on where you live. If you see signs reading, "We accept SNAP, EBT, etc.," rest assured, that establishment will take your payment. So, how do you actually pay? Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) members receive a card similar to a debit card. Funds are transferred to the card monthly and can be used at participating retailers like Trader Joe's. The checkout process is fairly intuitive; shoppers swipe their card, enter their PIN, and they're good to go! However, Trader Joe's doesn't allow online shopping, so EBT members will need to visit the store in person to buy the chain's goods.

The idea behind SNAP is that members should have access to staple foods at multiple stores. As such, Trader Joe's isn't alone in accepting this form of payment. Aldi accepts several payment methods, including EBT. And when shopping at farmers markets, ask if they accept EBT upon arrival. Many have stands where you can swap EBT for payment tokens. However, with this said, there are limitations to what you can purchase with these funds, and even some of Trader Joe's merchandise is off limits.

Whole foods like fruits, veggies, meats, and dairy products are on the EBT-approved list. Breads, snacks, cereals, and non-alcoholic beverages are also covered by the program. Food accessories like spices, condiments, and dessert ingredients such as cake mixes are included, too, and you can even buy seeds and plants to grow in your own garden. Some frozen foods are covered, as well, as long as they belong to the staple food category. Basically, anything meant for home consumption is covered by EBT.

Which Trader Joe's items aren't eligible? Essentially, anything people wouldn't typically eat at home isn't covered. Since they're meant to be consumed on the spot, any hot or prepared foods don't count.

Also excluded are grocery products like flowers, pet foods, cleaning supplies, and personal care items. Pharmaceuticals are a no-go, too, as are vitamins and supplements (including some energy and sports drinks). Finally, EBT doesn't cover alcoholic products, so shoppers will require a separate payment method to purchase Trader Joe's wine, beer, and liquor.