Instacart is increasing access to its grocery delivery and pickup services for customers with limited incomes by enabling them to utilize their SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits for grocery purchases. This marks the first instance of Instacart customers being able to use government assistance programs for grocery payments, following similar initiatives by major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and others who have expanded SNAP EBT to online grocery platforms.

In Instacart's implementation, this feature is being launched in collaboration with ALDI, allowing SNAP EBT participants to conveniently access fresh produce and essential grocery items through the online service.

While shopping, Instacart users will have the ability to include ALDI products eligible for EBT SNAP in their shopping cart, and then designate the amount of their benefits they wish to apply to the order during the checkout process.

Instacart highlights that its Customer and Shopper Care team is based in Atlanta, which influenced the selection of Georgia as the initial launch market—emphasizing the importance of supporting the communities where its employees reside and work.

Currently, online grocery shopping is frequently perceived as a premium service, but this shouldn’t necessarily be the case. Often, the cost of online shopping is comparable to in-store prices, particularly when utilizing the pickup option, as customers can readily compare prices across different retailers online. For individuals and families facing financial constraints, online grocery shopping can also represent a valuable time-saving solution amidst work and family obligations.

The recent pandemic has further intensified challenges in accessing food for those relying on SNAP benefits, especially for individuals at higher risk. These customers now face potential health risks when shopping in physical stores, making online grocery services increasingly essential.

“The introduction of Instacart’s EBT SNAP payments is occurring during a period of heightened food insecurity in the U.S. as the country continues to navigate the effects of COVID-19,” Instacart explained in a press release. “According to Feeding America, the pandemic may lead to over 54 million people experiencing food insecurity in 2020, including potentially 18 million children. Specifically in Georgia, food insecurity affects 12.5% of the population and disproportionately impacts communities of color,” the company added.

Instacart now joins a growing number of online retailers that accept SNAP EBT for grocery purchases.

Prior to the coronavirus pandemic, the U.S. Department of Agriculture had already been working to improve online grocery access for SNAP recipients through a pilot program, collaborating with retailers such as Amazon, Walmart, ShopRite, and others. These participating retailers have enabled customers to purchase groceries online and pay using their SNAP EBT benefits.

However, ALDI and Instacart are not currently listed on the USDA’s website as participants in this program.