If you rely on SNAP benefits or an EBT card to shop for groceries, you may be wondering: does Target accept EBT?
The short answer is yes — Target does take EBT in most of its physical stores across the United States, but there are a few important details about what you can and can’t buy, and how online orders work. Let’s break it down clearly.
Key Takeaways
- ✅ Target accepts EBT cards for eligible food items in all participating stores.
- 🛒 You can’t use EBT for non-food items, Target Café, Starbucks, or delivery fees.
- 🌐 EBT cannot be used for online purchases on Target.com or in the Target app (as of 2025).
- 📍 Always check your local store’s EBT policy, since some Target locations may have limited services.
What Is EBT and SNAP?
EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) is a government system that allows SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits to be issued via a plastic card, similar to a debit card.
SNAP helps low-income individuals and families buy essential food items like fruits, vegetables, dairy, meat, and bread at approved retailers.
Does Target Take EBT In-Store?
Yes. Most Target stores accept EBT cards for eligible SNAP food purchases.
You can swipe your EBT card at the checkout just like a debit card, and your receipt will show the remaining balance on your account.
EBT-Accepted Items at Target
Your EBT card can be used to purchase:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Dairy products
- Bread, cereals, and pasta
- Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
- Seeds and plants that produce food
Items You Cannot Buy with EBT
You cannot use EBT benefits to pay for:
- Alcohol, tobacco, or vaping products
- Hot prepared meals or restaurant food
- Pet food or cleaning supplies
- Toiletries and cosmetics
- Clothing or electronics
- Starbucks or Target Café purchases
💡 Tip: Some Target locations have Starbucks cafés inside — remember that these are not eligible for EBT transactions.
Does Target Take EBT Online?
As of 2025, Target does not accept EBT for online orders, including:
- Target.com
- The Target app
- Drive Up or same-day delivery services (like Shipt)
If you’re looking for online stores that do accept EBT, retailers like Walmart, Amazon, and Instacart currently support EBT SNAP payments for grocery delivery in most states.
How to Use Your EBT Card at Target
Here’s how to pay safely and correctly:
- Shop for SNAP-eligible groceries in-store.
- At checkout, swipe or insert your EBT card.
- Enter your 4-digit PIN.
- The terminal will automatically split your payment — eligible items are charged to your EBT balance, and non-eligible ones can be paid with another method (cash, debit, or credit).
You can also check your EBT balance before or after shopping by:
- Calling the number on the back of your EBT card, or
- Logging into your state’s EBT portal or app.
Can You Combine EBT With Other Payment Methods?
Yes — Target allows split payments.
You can use your EBT card for eligible groceries and then use another payment method for the rest of your order.
At self-checkout, you’ll see prompts guiding you through the process.
Does Target Take WIC?
Some Target stores also accept WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) benefits, but not all.
WIC-approved items include baby formula, milk, whole grains, and infant cereal.
Check with your local Target or visit your state’s WIC website to confirm.
Alternatives: Stores That Accept EBT Online
If you prefer shopping online, the following retailers support EBT for online grocery orders in most states:
- Walmart Grocery
- Amazon Fresh & Amazon Pantry
- Aldi (via Instacart)
- Kroger
- Safeway
- FreshDirect
These services let you order online and pay using your SNAP balance for eligible items — often with delivery or pickup options.
Frequently Asked Questions About Using EBT at Target
Does Target accept EBT cards at self-checkout?
Yes. All Target self-checkout stations that accept debit or credit cards also accept EBT. Simply scan your groceries, select “EBT Card” as your payment method, and enter your PIN. The system will automatically apply your SNAP balance to eligible food items.
Can I use EBT for Target Drive Up or same-day delivery?
No. Target does not currently accept EBT for Drive Up, curbside pickup, or delivery orders. You must shop and pay in person at the register to use your EBT benefits.
Can I use EBT for online orders at Target.com or in the Target app?
Not yet. EBT is not available for online purchases through Target.com or the Target app as of 2025. If you want to shop online using SNAP, consider alternatives like Walmart, Amazon, or Instacart, which accept EBT payments in most states.
Does Target take EBT for Starbucks or the in-store café?
No. EBT cannot be used at Starbucks or Target cafés, even if they are located inside a Target store. These are considered restaurant or prepared food services, which are not eligible under SNAP guidelines.
Can I buy household or cleaning supplies with EBT at Target?
No. EBT benefits can only be used for food items that fall under SNAP’s eligible categories. Non-food items such as cleaning supplies, paper products, pet food, toiletries, or cosmetics must be paid with another method.
Does Target accept WIC?
Yes — but only selected Target stores are authorized to process WIC payments. If your local Target participates, you can use your WIC card to purchase approved items like formula, baby food, milk, and cereal. Call your local store or check your state’s WIC retailer list to confirm.
Can I use two payment methods with EBT at Target?
Yes. Target allows split payments. You can pay for EBT-eligible groceries using your SNAP card, and then use a debit card, credit card, or cash to cover non-eligible items in the same transaction.
Does Target accept EBT for hot or prepared meals?
No. Hot prepared meals are not covered by SNAP benefits, even if purchased inside a grocery section. However, you can buy frozen or ready-to-cook meals to prepare at home.
How can I check my EBT balance before shopping at Target?
You can check your EBT balance by calling the number on the back of your EBT card, logging into your state’s EBT website or mobile app, or checking your most recent purchase receipt from Target or another EBT retailer.
Final Thoughts
So, does Target take EBT?
✅ Yes — for eligible grocery items in-store only.
❌ Not yet for online, delivery, or pickup purchases.
If you’re a SNAP user who loves Target’s variety and prices, it’s still a great place to shop — just make sure to pay attention to the product categories that qualify for EBT.
As digital EBT programs expand nationwide, Target may eventually roll out online EBT support, but for now, in-person shopping remains the way to go.