If you’re receiving SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits, you might be wondering where you can use them. SNAP helps people with low incomes buy food. Many grocery stores and supermarkets take EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) cards, which hold your SNAP benefits. But what about other stores? Does Big Lots accept EBT? This essay will answer this question and give you some extra helpful information about using EBT.
The Straight Answer: Does Big Lots Accept EBT?
Yes, Big Lots generally accepts EBT cards as a form of payment. This is great news because it means you can use your SNAP benefits to purchase eligible food items at Big Lots stores. Keep in mind that this can vary by location, so it’s always a good idea to check with your local store if you are unsure. The process is similar to using a debit card, so it’s usually very easy.

What Can You Buy with EBT at Big Lots?
You’re probably asking yourself, “Okay, so Big Lots takes EBT, but what can I actually buy with it?” The rules for what you can purchase with SNAP benefits are pretty clear. The main focus is on food for your household. This includes things like:
- Fruits and vegetables (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt)
- Breads and cereals
- Seeds and plants that produce food (like a tomato plant!)
These are all considered essential food items. Big Lots has a variety of these, so you should be able to find some good options. Keep in mind that the EBT card will only cover the cost of eligible food items.
Big Lots is a great place to shop for deals and you will likely find many food items you can purchase. It also has a wide selection of household goods and furniture, though you can’t use your EBT card for those items. It is important to understand what you can and can’t purchase.
The items in Big Lots change all of the time, so make sure to check out the products that are available when you visit. You may be surprised at what they have.
What CAN’T You Buy with EBT at Big Lots?
Just as important as knowing what you *can* buy is knowing what you *can’t*. SNAP benefits have some restrictions. You can’t use your EBT card to purchase:
- Alcoholic beverages
- Tobacco products
- Vitamins and supplements (unless specifically approved by a doctor)
- Non-food items (like pet food, diapers, cleaning supplies, or personal hygiene products)
These restrictions are pretty standard across all stores that accept EBT. It’s important to separate your purchases if you’re buying both eligible and ineligible items. For example, if you are buying food and cleaning supplies, you’ll need to pay for the cleaning supplies separately, usually with cash, a debit card, or a credit card.
This is important to know because the cashier won’t be able to ring up the non-qualifying items with your EBT card. The items are often marked, but it’s always good to double check to avoid any issues at the register. It’s also important to be aware of the specific guidelines for your state.
If you have any questions about what you can purchase, ask a store employee. They should be able to assist you.
How to Use Your EBT Card at Big Lots
Using your EBT card at Big Lots is easy. The process is very similar to using a debit card. At the checkout, the cashier will ring up your items. When you’re ready to pay, you’ll tell the cashier that you’re using an EBT card.
Next, you’ll swipe your card and enter your PIN number, just like you would with a debit card. Remember your PIN is very important to protect your benefits. It’s your personal code that unlocks your account. It’s also important to choose a pin that is secure and that you can remember.
The transaction will then be processed. The amount of your purchase that is for eligible food items will be deducted from your SNAP balance. If you are purchasing both EBT-eligible and ineligible items, you will need to split your purchases into separate transactions. Remember, you may be able to use cash or another card to pay for the non-eligible items.
Here is a simplified guide:
- Gather your items.
- Go to the checkout.
- Inform the cashier you will be using your EBT.
- Swipe your EBT card.
- Enter your PIN.
- Complete the transaction.
Finding Your Local Big Lots and Checking Store Policies
To find a Big Lots store near you, you can use the store locator on the Big Lots website. Just enter your zip code or city and state. This will show you a map with the locations of nearby stores. Once you know your store, it is important to check if they take EBT.
You can also call the store directly to ask about their EBT policy. Sometimes, there can be slight variations between locations, so it’s always a good idea to confirm, especially if you’re going to a store for the first time. Big Lots often has good deals, so this may save you a lot of money.
Many stores will also have signs posted near the entrance or checkout lanes that indicate whether they accept EBT. Keep your eyes open for these signs when you arrive. This is an easy way to know whether the store accepts your card.
It is always a good idea to check store hours, especially before you go shopping. You can also browse the Big Lots website to see some of the deals that are available.
Tips for Shopping at Big Lots with EBT
Shopping with EBT at Big Lots can be a smart way to save money on groceries. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your shopping trip:
- Make a list: Before you go, plan out what you need and stick to your list. This helps you avoid impulse purchases and stay within your budget.
- Check prices: Big Lots often has good deals, but it’s always smart to compare prices with other stores to make sure you’re getting the best value.
- Look for clearance items: Big Lots often has clearance food items, which can be a great way to save even more money.
- Pay attention to expiration dates: Make sure to check the expiration dates on your food items to ensure they’re fresh.
Being a smart shopper can help you to get the most value for your money. Check for discounts or sales that are available. Big Lots has some items that you can buy in bulk to save money. Here is a table of the different things that you might be able to find.
Item | Possible Value |
---|---|
Canned Goods | Good Value |
Frozen Foods | Often a good value |
Snack Items | Check Pricing |
By following these tips, you can stretch your SNAP benefits further and get the most out of your Big Lots shopping experience.
Big Lots’ Other Payment Options
Besides EBT, Big Lots offers a variety of other payment options. If you have any non-food items, or your EBT balance is insufficient, you can use these alternative payment methods:
- Cash: You can always pay with cash.
- Debit cards: Debit cards are widely accepted at Big Lots.
- Credit cards: Major credit cards are usually accepted.
- Big Lots Credit Card: If you have a Big Lots credit card, you can use it to make purchases.
Having these other options gives you flexibility. If you’re buying something that’s not eligible for SNAP, like a household item, you can simply use cash, your debit card, or credit card. This way, you can still take advantage of the good deals Big Lots has to offer, even if you’re using your SNAP benefits for groceries.
Another option is to get cash back, depending on your EBT card. Check if you can get cash from your EBT card, but do not use it if there is a fee. However, many stores allow you to get cash back from your debit card with no fee.
Make sure to know all of your payment options so that you’re prepared before you head to the store.
Conclusion
So, does Big Lots accept EBT? Yes! You can use your SNAP benefits to purchase eligible food items at Big Lots. With a little planning and knowledge of the rules, you can use your EBT card to buy groceries and save money. Make sure to check out your local Big Lots for deals and be mindful of what you can and can’t buy with your EBT card. Happy shopping!