This information is current as of June 3, 2022.
Publix Super Markets, Inc., commonly known as Publix, is the largest and fastest-growing employee-owned supermarket chain in the United States. Known for its bakery, floral department, and deli sandwiches – known to Publix fans as “Pub Subs” – Publix is one of the most beloved supermarkets in Florida. There are over 800 Publix stores in the Sunshine State!
If you’re a SNAP or Food Stamp recipient, you may wonder, “Does Publix take EBT cards for payment?” The answer is yes. LikeAldi,Whole Foods, andSam’s Club, Publix does accept EBT cards for certain purchases. Read on to learn more.
Using Food Stamps at Publix
If you’re new to EBT, you may have recently received your card. Your EBT card automatically refills monthly with your SNAP benefits. Once your application has been approved, you’re notified of your monthly benefit amount.
EBT cards work like debit cards. The only difference is they’re used to purchase food items at EBT-accepting stores. Most major supermarket chains accept EBT. In addition, stores often let customers know by posting a sign on the register, outside doors or windows, or on the customer service counter. To see a complete list of EBT-accepting retailers, simply Google “stores near me that accept EBT.”
Publix even accepts EBT at all store locations and for Publix grocery delivery through the Instacart app. In addition, Publix also allows EBT for in-store pickup.
Paying With EBT at Publix
You can visit your local Publix with EBT and use your SNAP benefits for eligible food items. If you need to combine eligible and ineligible items, you can do so in the same purchase.
Once at the checkout, let the cashier know that you’ll pay with an EBT card. All EBT-accepted items can be paid for by swiping or tapping the EBT card on the card machine. Then, follow the prompts, including inputting your PIN, and complete the payment.
You’ll need to pay the remaining balance with another source of cash if:
- Your EBT card has less money on it than the total cost of your groceries, or
- Non-eligible items are included in your purchase
Once your purchase is complete, the total cost will deduct from that month’s SNAP balance. If you ever have a leftover balance at the end of the month, it will roll over to the following month.
What Can I Buy with EBT at Publix?
When using your EBT food stamps at Publix, you can purchase fruits, veggies, meat, fish, chicken, dairy, bread, cereals, snacks, juices, sodas, seeds, and plants.
Ineligible Items
Because the SNAP program aims to improve health through nutrition, it won’t pay for certain items at Publix or any other retailer.
Using your EBT card at Publix, you cannot buy:
- Alcohol
- Cigarettes/tobacco
- Foods with a Supplemental Facts label (vitamins, medicines, etc.)
- Hot foods or hot prepared meals
- Pet food
- Cosmetics/hygiene products
- Cleaning supplies and paper products
- Household supplies
- Live animals
If you want to purchase any of these items, you can combine them with your SNAP items. Then, at checkout, you’ll need to pay for them separately.
Online Supermarkets That Take EBT
In addition to Publix, three other grocery stores that take EBT online are Amazon, ShopRite, and Walmart. These online stores offer the same healthy groceries in-store, but they’re delivered straight to your doorstep. If you pay over a certain amount determined per store, you can even qualify for free shipping.
Amazon accepts EBT payments through two online portals: Amazon Fresh and Groceries on Amazon. As of 2022, anyone in all states, except Alaska, Hawaii, Louisiana, and Montana, can use a valid EBT for purchases online.
To shop on Amazon with your EBT card, clickhereand follow the onscreen instructions.
If you’re not an Amazon customer yet, you’ll be prompted to create an account, but you don’t have to pay for an Amazon Prime membership to usethis service. However, to get free delivery on Amazon Fresh, you’ll need to purchase $35 or more of eligible items. Otherwise, you’ll have to pay the shipping fee with another payment apart from your EBT card.
You can schedule your delivery within a one or two-hour window as early as that day. For Groceries on Amazon, the minimum spending amount for free shipping is only $25.
It’s easy to find out which foods you can purchase with your EBT card online. A clear label says “SNAP EBT eligible” on the product pages.
Make sure you are not buying from third-party sellers – you can only use your EBT card if you are buying directly from Amazon. Also, you can always split up your purchase into two transactions with your EBT card and another form of payment if necessary.
Final Thoughts
Publix does accept EBT. If you get your SNAP benefits on an EBT card, youcanuse this card at any Publix near you. By using it like any debit card, you’ll have access to a great variety of meats, vegetables, dairy products, and more.
Publix even gives EBT customers access to delivery options via Instacart. This way, you can shop online and receive your groceries without leaving your home. If you have any questions, you can visit the Publix website, which features a Frequently Asked Questions page.
If you’re shopping and haven’t taken advantage of cash-back apps, try combining them with your SNAP benefits to get the most bang for your buck.
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