Yes, Costco does accept EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) cards as a form of payment. This means that customers who rely on EBT benefits to purchase groceries and other household essentials can shop at Costco locations and use their EBT cards to pay for eligible items.
Eligible Items for EBT Payment at Costco
When using an EBT card at Costco, there are certain guidelines to keep in mind. EBT cards can only be used to purchase eligible food items, such as:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Meat, poultry, and seafood
- Dairy products
- Breads and cereals
- Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
Costco Membership Requirement
In order to use EBT cards at Costco, customers must be Costco members. While the store itself accepts EBT payments, the membership requirement still applies. However, there are certain states where Costco locations are required to allow non-members to use the store’s pharmacy, optical, and food court services without a membership when paying with EBT cards.
Online EBT Payment at Costco
When shopping online through Costco’s website, customers also have the option to use their EBT cards for payment. However, keep in mind that not all items available for purchase online may be eligible for EBT payment. It’s important to check the specific guidelines and restrictions for online EBT payments at Costco.
EBT Payment Restrictions at Costco
While Costco accepts EBT cards for eligible food purchases, there are certain restrictions to be aware of. EBT cards cannot be used for purchasing non-food items, such as:
- Alcoholic beverages
- Tobacco products
- Vitamins and supplements
- Hot foods ready to eat
EBT Split Transactions at Costco
Some Costco locations may allow customers to split their payment between an EBT card and another form of payment, such as cash or a debit/credit card. This can be useful for customers who want to purchase both eligible food items with their EBT card and non-eligible items with another payment method.
In conclusion, Costco does accept EBT cards as a form of payment for eligible food items. However, customers should be aware of the guidelines and restrictions that come with using EBT cards at Costco locations, both in-store and online.