Instacart Expands EBT SNAP Payments to More Retailers

Instacart Broadens EBT SNAP Payment Acceptance

The Instacart online grocery platform is extending its integration of Electronic Benefits Transfer and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (EBT SNAP) payments. Initiated in November 2020, this program now encompasses over 40 retail partners.

New Retail Partners Join the Program

Recent additions to the list of retailers accepting EBT SNAP payments via Instacart include Fairplay Foods, PAQ Inc (operating Food 4 Less California & Rancho San Miguel), Harps, Little Giant Farmer’s Market, and Earthfare.

Existing Partners Continue to Support EBT SNAP

A substantial number of retailers already participate in the program. These include Aldi, Ahold Delhaize USA, Brookshire’s, Food Bazaar, Homeland, My County Market, Price Chopper/Market 32, Publix, and Woodman’s Markets, among others.

Expansion into Virtual Convenience Stores

Instacart is now facilitating EBT SNAP payments through its virtual convenience offering, in addition to traditional grocery stores. This allows for quicker delivery of frequently purchased items like snacks and household essentials.

This convenience delivery service is currently available through Ahold Delhaize USA banners such as Food Lion Now, Giant Instant Delivery, Giant Food Convenience, Hannaford Now, Martin’s Instant Delivery, and Stop & Shop Express. These stores are accessible within the “Convenience Hub” on the Instacart marketplace.

Fee Waivers for EBT SNAP Customers

Between January 1, 2022, and March 31, 2022, Instacart waived both delivery and pickup fees for all EBT SNAP orders. This applied to customers using a valid EBT card linked to their Instacart account.

Enterprise Solutions Also Enable EBT SNAP

Earlier in the year, Instacart extended EBT SNAP payment capabilities to its enterprise solutions. This was achieved through partnerships with BJ’s Wholesale Club, Brookshire’s, Food Bazaar, Food Lion, Harps Food Stores, Homeland, Publix, The Save Mart Companies, Schnucks, Strack & Van Til, Tops Markets, and Wakefern Food Corp.

Instacart CEO Highlights Commitment

“We’re proud of the progress we’ve made since launching EBT SNAP payments,” stated Instacart CEO Fidji Simo. “We are grateful to our retail and USDA FNS partners for helping us bridge the food accessibility gap for millions of Americans.”

Simo further emphasized the company’s dedication to expanding the EBT SNAP offering and investing in programs that provide consumers with more affordable and nutritious food options.

Additional Features and Initiatives

Instacart recently introduced a “Deals Tab,” featuring daily coupons from various retailers. A “Dollar Store Hub” was also launched, allowing users to browse deals from over 13,000 dollar stores, including Dollar Tree, 99 Cents Only Store, Five Below, and Family Dollar.

Currently, Instacart is piloting a new delivery option. This option aims to reduce or eliminate delivery fees on orders placed at least 24 hours in advance. The specific markets involved in this test have not yet been disclosed.