EBT is all about imparting to people the convenience, accessibility, and affordability to a healthier and better lifestyle. Therefore, an EBT card can be used throughout America, in all 50 states.
Knowing that CVS is one of America’s most widely spread and accessible pharmacies, you might be wondering if CVS accepts EBT. Here is all you need to know!
Does CVS Take EBT And Food Stamps?
CVS does accept EBT cards through the SNAP program at over 6,900 stores. However, not all CVS stores accept EBT, so it is recommended to check with your local CVS before visiting.
To learn more about the eligible and ineligible items to buy with your EBT card and much more, keep on reading!
How Can You Check If Your Local CVS Accepts EBT & Food Stamps?
If you want to save yourself the time, gas, and inconvenience of visiting a CVS store that does not accept EBT.
The best way to make your visit to the store worthwhile is to call beforehand and ask customer service if they do accept EBT at that particular store.
To find your nearest CVS pharmacy and their contact number, you can use this store location finder available on the CVS official website.
Additionally, customers can use the Usda.gov state directory to acquire more information.
How To Use An EBT Card At CVS?
An EBT card works in the same manner as a debit or credit card. Customers can make purchases at the payment counter by following these steps:
- Swipe the EBT card at the card reader
- Enter your PIN
- Confirm the transaction
- Collect the receipt with your new balance.
Note that an EBT card might not be an accepted method of payment at self-checkout at most CVS locations.
What Items Can You Buy With EBT At CVS?
According to the SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) guidelines, customers can use their EBT cards to shop for any of the necessary staples. These include,
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Fruits and vegetables
- Bread and cereals
- Dairy products
- Snack foods
- Non-alcoholic beverages
- And seeds and plants (that can produce food for the household)
However, since CVS is a pharmaceutical store, it’s always better to ask if the store sells the food essentials you require, as they may not provide for all of the above items.
What Products Are Ineligible To Buy With EBT At CVS?
According to the SNAP guidelines, any product that does not count as a food essential automatically does not fall into the category of items you can purchase with your Food Stamp or EBT card. Including:
- Live animals
- Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
- Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes, or tobacco
- Prepared foods
- Pet foods
- Cosmetics
- Cleaning and other household supplies
Can You Make Purchases Using The EBT Card At CVS Online?
Unfortunately no, CVS only allows transactions to be made as part of their online payment method with the following:
- Visa Card
- Master Card
- American Express
- Discover
Additionally, the CVS app also does not include EBT cards in the list of eligible methods of payment.
Which Other Stores Accept EBT?
Since CVS is a pharmaceutical store and it might not sell every permitted food essential you wish to buy, you might be wondering which other stores near you accept EBT as a payment method.
Some of the most popular stores that offer EBT benefits include Walgreens, Dollar General, Costco, and Walmart.
If you wish to check out the full list of stores near you that accept EBT and Food Stamps, click here to use the SNAP Retailer Locator.
For more information on where you can use your EBT card, don’t forget to see our guides on whether or not Kroger, Dollar General, Walgreens, and Costco take EBT.
Conclusion
Yes, CVS does accept EBT in over 6,900+ of its store locations. If you want to save yourself an extra visit to the store, you should check if your local CVS accepts EBT before visiting one. Also note, that you can only access an EBT card in-stores and not online or via the CVS app and it can be only utilized to buy essential food staples.
To use your EBT card at a STAMP-authorized CVS store, swipe the card and enter your pin at the POS terminal near the checkout.
