Does Publix take EBT?
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Yes, Publix accepts EBT (also called SNAP) and WIC.
You can use EBT to shop online at Publix through Instacart for delivery or curbside pick-up.
Tips for shopping at Publix with an EBT card:
- Check your EBT balance before you shop—use an app like Propel to see how much you have left on your card and budget for your Publix trip
- Make sure you understand the rules about SNAP-eligible food items and state-specific restrictions—bring a backup payment method for anything that’s not SNAP-eligible, like toiletries, paper products, or hot food
- Keep SNAP-eligible items separate from ineligible items in your cart when you’re shopping to make things easier at checkout
Propel is the #1-rated EBT balance checking app
How to use EBT at Publix#how-to-use-ebt-at-publix
You can use an EBT card to make online or in-store purchases at Publix.
In-store purchases#in-store-purchases
As long as you’re buying eligible items, you can pay using your EBT card at checkout, including self-checkout. Not all Publix locations have a self-checkout option. Find your nearest Publix to learn more about the methods of payment in-store.
Delivery or curbside pickup#delivery-or-curbside-pickup
Publix offers delivery and curbside pickup through Instacart. To use your EBT card on the Instacart website or app, you'll need an Instacart account. To order groceries at Publix with your EBT card on Instacart:
- Visit Publix’s Instacart site. Create or sign into your Instacart account.
- Enter your address or current location to begin shopping
- Add SNAP-eligible groceries to your cart
- Select "go to checkout” and choose pickup or delivery. Then, check your delivery address if needed. Also, select a delivery or pickup time and add any additional instructions
- Click "pay with" and choose the "EBT SNAP" payment type. Enter your first and last name and EBT card number. You can choose how much of the order you want to be paid for by EBT (SNAP) and how much should be paid for by other payment methods.
- Add a backup payment method for fees, delivery tips, and non-EBT SNAP items
- Click "Place order." Enter your EBT PIN when prompted.
Remember, EBT does not cover delivery or Instacart fees, which must be paid with an alternative card. However, Instacart does offer an EBT cardholder discount for Instacart, which includes a $0 delivery fee with a $4.99 monthly membership.
What is EBT-eligible at Publix?#what-is-ebt-eligible-at-publix
You can buy any SNAP-eligible food items at Publix, including:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt
- Pantry staples such as rice, beans, noodles, pasta, and bread
- Frozen meals and snacks
- Canned goods
- Snacks like chips, crackers, or nuts
- Beverages like juice, coffee, and tea
Check out this full list of everything you can buy with your SNAP benefits.
As a rule of thumb, if the item has a “Nutrition Facts” label and you can eat it, you can probably buy it with EBT.
What can’t you buy with EBT at Publix?#what-cant-you-buy-with-ebt-at-publix
EBT can’t be used for:
- Hot prepared beverages, including coffee and tea
- Hot prepared food, such as rotisserie chicken or hot dogs
- Gas
- Alcohol, tobacco, and cigarettes
- Toilet paper
- Diapers
Some states also have junk food and soda bans in place, which can limit purchases of snacks and beverages.
Protecting your EBT card while shopping at Publix#protecting-your-ebt-card-while-shopping-at-publix
When shopping at Publix or any grocery store, it’s important to keep your SNAP benefits safe from EBT theft.
Here are some important steps to take to protect your EBT card:
- Check your EBT balance regularly: Use an app like Propel to track your EBT deposits and spending and monitor for suspicious transactions
- Never share your PIN: Keep your EBT card PIN private, even from friends or family
- Update your PIN monthly: Changing your EBT PIN before your monthly SNAP deposit provides an extra layer of security
Report a lost or stolen EBT card immediately by calling your state EBT number.
