Can You Use EBT Cash on Amazon?

We already know that they has an incredible discount program for EBT card users, but can you use EBT cash on Amazon too?

Amazon is one of the biggest retailers in the U.S, so it’s natural that so many people have asked if this giant online megastore will accept your cash benefits. In this article, we’ll answer that question, discuss more what EBT cash benefits are and more.

What are EBT cash benefits? 

In order to understand if you can use EBT cash on Amazon, you first need to know what EBT cash benefits are.

EBT stands for “electronic benefits transfer,” and it’s a system that allows state welfare organizations to issue benefit payments to a recipient’s payment card. This card is used to process benefits for cash programs like TANF, refugee cash assistance, and several other programs. Of course, EBT cards are also used to process food stamps payments under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.

The EBT card has two parts: the cash side and the food side. Food benefits can only be used for food purchases, but cash benefits can be used for a wide variety of things.

These funds are administered by each state, and thus the process for getting EBT cash benefits will vary based on your location. In most cases, you can apply online or via a phone call. Learn more about cash benefits here.

Does Amazon accept EBT cash benefits?

Amazon now accepts EBT Cash benefits in certain states! This means you can use EBT Cash on Amazon to pay for most products and services, including household items, clothing, shipping fees, and items sold by third-party sellers.

Currently, EBT cash is only accepted in the following states:

• Alaska
• Arizona
• Colorado
• Florida
• Hawaii
• Idaho
• Illinois
• Kentucky
• Missouri
• New Hampshire
• New Mexico
• New York
• Nevada
• North Carolina
• Oregon
• Rhode Island
• Tennessee
• Vermont
• Washington
• Washington, D.C.
• West Virginia

And don’t forget! Regardless of where you live, you can get 50% off an Amazon Prime membership if you receive benefits through EBT, Medicaid, WIC, or other government programs. This discount gives you access to free shipping, exclusive deals, and more. Sign up here.

How Can You Use EBT Cash on Amazon?

Cash assistance can be used to purchase a wide range of items on Amazon, but there are some restrictions. Here’s a breakdown:

What You Can Buy with EBT Cash on Amazon

You can buy many different items on Amazon with these benefits, including:

• Household essentials (e.g., cleaning supplies, toiletries, paper goods)
• Clothing and shoes
• Electronics and small appliances
• Baby products (e.g., diapers, wipes, formula)
• School and office supplies
• Health and personal care items
• Kitchen tools and cookware
• Shipping fees for eligible items
• Items sold by third-party sellers (if allowed by Amazon)

What You Cannot Buy with EBT Cash on Amazon

Unfortunately, there are also items that you cannot buy. These include:

• Digital items (e.g., e-books, apps, or online games)
• Subscriptions (e.g., Amazon Prime memberships, Subscribe & Save offers)
• Jewelry or luxury items
• Alcohol or tobacco products
• Gift cards
• Any items prohibited by EBT program rules (e.g., weapons, gambling-related items, etc.)

Why You Can’t Subscribe & Save

Unfortunately, Amazon customers using EBT cannot use the company’s “Subscribe & Save” feature that allows users to place recurring orders. 

EBT customers must authorize each of their transactions by entering their PIN number. Because the “Subscribe & Save” feature automates the process with a recurring order, customers cannot use their EBT benefits. Amazon customers can still subscribe to items using an alternative form of payment, such as a debit or credit card.

The Difference Between SNAP & EBT Cash

It’s important to note that EBT Cash and SNAP benefits work differently on Amazon. If you only receive EBT through the SNAP program, you will not be able to use your benefits the same way.

While EBT Cash benefits can be used for non-food items, SNAP benefits are strictly limited to purchasing eligible food products such as fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, and bread. SNAP cannot be used for non-food items like household supplies, electronics, or clothing.

Amazon accepts SNAP benefits in all states, but you can only use EBT cash on Amazon if you live in certain states. Always check the rules for your specific benefit type to ensure compliance when shopping online.

Relief Recap

In this article, we explored how you can use EBT cash on Amazon, including what you can and cannot buy, where you need to be located, and more. While EBT Cash offers flexibility for purchasing non-food items, it’s essential to follow the rules and use your benefits safely.

Don’t forget to check your state’s guidelines and Amazon’s policies for the latest updates. For more tips on making the most of your benefits, be sure to explore our other articles and resources!