Can You Use EBT for Meal Kits?

If you receive SNAP benefits (food stamps) and want to try meal delivery services, you might wonder if you can pay with your EBT card. Here's what you need to know.

Popular Meal Kits Don't Accept EBT

Unfortunately, well-known meal kit companies like HelloFresh, Blue Apron, and Home Chef do not accept EBT payments.

These companies are not set up to take SNAP benefits. But don't worry—there are other options that work with your EBT card.

Free Alternative: SNAP Express

The USDA offers a free service called SNAP Express that works like a meal kit. Here's how it works:

• Browse meal kits designed by nutrition experts, or create your own from over 250 budget-friendly, healthy recipes
• See how much each meal costs and how many servings it makes
• Pick a meal kit (like their "Easy Kid Friendly Meals" option) based on your family size or diet preferences
• Download the recipes and choose a grocery store from their partner list
• All the ingredients you need get added to your online shopping cart automatically
• Remove any items you already have at home
• Order the groceries for delivery or pickup

SNAP Express works with Amazon Fresh, Whole Foods Market, and Instacart. If you use a different store, you'll need to add the ingredients yourself.

Note: Unlike Blue Apron or HelloFresh, SNAP Express does not send you pre-measured or prepared ingredients. You buy the groceries and cook at home.

Other Ways to Get Groceries Delivered with EBT

If you just want groceries delivered to your home, you have several choices:

• Instacart – Accepts EBT at certain stores. If you've used EBT on Instacart in the last 6 months, you can get a discount on their Instacart+ membership.
• DoorDash – Takes EBT for items that qualify for SNAP.
• Amazon – Accepts EBT in some states.
• Thrive Market – An online grocery store that takes EBT.
• Curbside pickup – Some stores that accept EBT offer free pickup.
• Food banks and pantries – Some will deliver food to your home if you meet their requirements.

Meals on Wheels: Free Prepared Meals Delivered

If you need ready-to-eat meals brought to your door, Meals on Wheels might help. This program delivers free meals to people who have trouble cooking or shopping for food.

You may qualify if you are:

• Over 60 years old and have trouble getting around
• Under 60 but homebound
• Taking care of someone who is over 60 or homebound
• Recovering from surgery or illness

Rules vary by location, so contact your local Meals on Wheels chapter to learn more.

Why Don't Meal Kit Companies Accept SNAP?

SNAP benefits are meant for buying food at retail stores where you take groceries home to cook. Stores that accept EBT must follow certain rules, like selling basic food items such as dairy and meat. They also need special approval from the USDA.

Meal kit companies use a subscription delivery model, which doesn't fit neatly into these rules. They're not banned from accepting EBT, but their setup makes it complicated.

Quick Tip

Not sure if you can buy something with SNAP? Here's an easy rule: If it has a "Nutrition Facts" label and you can eat it, you can usually buy it with your EBT card.

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