EBT is accepted in many stores across the US. Nowadays, it is even accepted in a variety of fast-food restaurants.
But does Big Lots take EBT? Well, you’ve landed on the right page. In this article, we will give you the lowdown on everything you need to know about EBT at Big Lots and any rules and regulations surrounding the use of EBT.
Let’s find out more.
Does Big Lots take EBT?
Grocery stores that accept EBT are growing in popularity around the US. And the answer to this question is yes, Big Lots does take EBT as a method of payment. But, there is a catch. Not every Big Lots store currently accepts this form of payment.
Which Big Lots Stores Accept EBT?
You can find out which Big Lots stores accept EBT by visiting your local Big Lots or giving their customer service line a call. Alternatively, you can also find out on the Big Lots website. To do this, you will first of all need to select the ‘Store Locator’ tab. From here, there will be a section named ‘Food and Cash benefits’. Clicking on this will provide you with more information.
Big Lots stores in busy cities are more likely to accept EBT than stores located in quieter areas.
How Many Big Lots Stores Take EBT?
Big Lots has around 1400 stores spanning across 48 states. However, only a select few accept EBT.
While this might not be the answer you were looking for, this does seem promising. Over the years, EBT has been accepted by a variety of popular grocery stores throughout the U.S. We don’t think it will be long until all 1400 Big Lots stores accept EBT.
Does Big Lots Take EBT Online?
Unfortunately, you cannot pay for items purchased online using your EBT card for home delivery. You can however pay using EBT for a curbside pickup. In this case, you can pay in-store upon collection.
What Can I Buy At Big Lots With EBT?
EBT/SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits were created for families on a low income to give them access to healthy and nutritious foods. EBT can be used to purchase a variety of food and drinks. Let’s take a look at what you can buy from Big Lots with an EBT card.
EBT eligible products:
- Dairy products (milk, yogurt, cheese)
- Red meat (steak, mince)
- Other meat products (poultry, ham)
- Potato chips
- Soft drinks (Sprite, Pepsi)
- Energy drinks (Red Bull)
- Desserts (ice cream, cookies)
Products you cannot purchase using EBT:
- Tobacco products
- Alcohol
- Medicine
- Gift cards
- Hot food/drinks
It’s easy to see why EBT cannot be used to pay for the products listed above as they are considered luxuries. SNAP was introduced to citizens so that those earning a low, or no income, still have access to nutritious foods that enable them to lead a healthy lifestyle.
While hot food (food that is prepared upon purchase) can still be both nutritious and healthy, it is seen as a luxury. You can, however, use your EBT card to purchase food from fast-food chains, but only in certain states.
The SNAP program allows this if the area falls under the RMP (Restaurant Meals Program). This program was introduced for the elderly and disabled who may struggle to prepare meals for themselves.
How To Use EBT At A Big Lots Store
Using an EBT card at Big Lots couldn’t be easier. The process is similar when using a debit or credit card. Once your items have been scanned by a team member, simply enter your EBT card into the reader and type in your four-digit PIN (Personal Identification Number).
Remember, your EBT card can only be used to purchase SNAP-eligible items. Any product that does not fall under the SNAP policy must be paid for by other means.
Can I Use EBT At A Self-checkout
Yes, many grocery stores across the US accept payment by an EBT card. Once you have scanned each item, there will be an option to pay using EBT in the ‘Payment’ section.
Alternative Payment Methods At Big Lots
If you want to pay for EBT-eligible items using your EBT card, but need to pay for items that do not fall within SNAP rules, you will need an alternative payment method.
That’s where we have you covered! Here are the most frequently used payment methods accepted at all Big Lots stores.
- Cash
- Gift Cards
- Visa
- Mastercard
- Check
- Apple Pay
- American Express
- Big Lots Credit Card
Before You Go
You can pay for items using EBT at certain Big Lots locations. Stores located in busy cities are most likely to accept EBT as a form of payment.
If you need more information, head to your local Big Lots for more information or call the customer service team who will be happy to help.
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