There is a major confusion in the delivery world between SNAP (Food Stamps) and EBT Cash (TANF).
- SNAP: Can only be used for eligible food items (fruits, veggies, dairy).
- EBT Cash: Can be used for almost anything, including toilet paper, hot food, and delivery fees.
Most apps accept SNAP, but very few accept EBT Cash. Here is the definitive list for 2025.
1. Walmart+ (The EBT Cash King)
Walmart is currently the only major retailer that fully accepts EBT Cash for online delivery orders.
- How it works: When you add your EBT card to the Walmart app, it detects both balances (Food & Cash). You can use your EBT Cash balance to pay for non-food items (like diapers) and even the delivery tip, just like a debit card.
2. Safeway / Albertsons / Vons
The Safeway family of apps allows you to use EBT Cash for online checkout. This is crucial because it allows you to buy hot deli items (like roasted chicken) that are normally banned under SNAP rules, using your Cash benefit.
3. Instacart, DoorDash & Uber Eats (SNAP Only)
Crucial Warning: DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Instacart accept SNAP, but they generally do not accept EBT Cash for the delivery fees or tips.
- The Rule: You can use your EBT card to pay for the carrots and milk, but you must have a secondary credit/debit card on file to pay for the service fees and driver tip. You cannot use your EBT Cash balance for this secondary payment on these specific apps.
Context Check: Using benefits effectively is key. For a broader look at how payment trends are shifting for gig-economy services, read Is Cash on Delivery Dying?.
