Want to order food from DoorDash but use your food stamps (also known as SNAP benefits)? It’s definitely possible, but it’s a bit tricky. This guide will walk you through how you might be able to use your benefits for food delivery, what you need to know, and some important things to keep in mind. Getting your favorite meals delivered to your doorstep using SNAP can save you time and energy, so let’s dive in and figure out how to make it happen!
Can I Directly Pay DoorDash with My Food Stamps?
Unfortunately, you can’t directly pay for DoorDash orders using your EBT card (your food stamp card) in most places. DoorDash hasn’t officially partnered with the USDA, which administers SNAP, to allow direct payment with EBT cards everywhere. This means you can’t just enter your EBT card number when you’re checking out. However, don’t give up hope! There are still ways to get food delivered using your benefits. You might need to get a little creative, so read on to learn how!
Finding Grocery Delivery Options
One of the best ways to use your SNAP benefits on DoorDash is to use them for grocery delivery. DoorDash partners with many grocery stores, allowing you to order groceries directly through the app. This is often a straightforward way to use your EBT card. Before you order though, you need to make sure your local store accepts it.
Here’s how to find grocery stores on DoorDash that accept EBT:
- Open the DoorDash app.
- Search for “grocery” or the name of a specific grocery store you know of.
- Look for stores that have an EBT logo or mention EBT as a payment option. If you do not see the EBT logo, there is a chance that the store does not accept EBT.
Once you’ve found a store that accepts EBT, you can add items to your cart and check out. Remember that some delivery fees and service charges might not be covered by your EBT card, so you’ll need to pay those separately using another payment method.
Checking for EBT Acceptance During Checkout
When you are ready to check out, DoorDash will typically show you the payment options available. If the grocery store accepts EBT, you should see it as an option.
Here’s a general idea of what to expect during checkout:
- Add the groceries you want to buy to your cart.
- Go to the checkout screen.
- Select the payment option.
- You may have to enter your EBT card number.
- Select the groceries that you can pay for.
The process is usually straightforward, but you might need to contact DoorDash customer support or the grocery store if you have any problems.
Understanding What You Can and Cannot Buy
Remember that your EBT card has rules on what you can and can’t buy. You can only purchase eligible food items, which generally include groceries like fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy products, and bread. You cannot buy non-food items, such as paper towels, cleaning supplies, alcohol, or pet food.
Here’s a quick table outlining some examples:
| Eligible Items (You CAN buy) | Ineligible Items (You CANNOT buy) |
|---|---|
| Fresh produce | Alcohol |
| Meat and poultry | Cigarettes |
| Dairy products | Pet food |
Always double-check if you’re unsure. The DoorDash app should show you what items are eligible, but if you’re unsure, it’s a good idea to look up the rules of SNAP to make sure you’re following the rules.
Dealing With Delivery Fees and Other Charges
While your EBT card can cover the cost of eligible groceries, it usually won’t cover delivery fees, service fees, or tips for the DoorDash driver. You’ll need to pay those extra charges using another form of payment, like a credit card or debit card.
Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Delivery Fees: DoorDash charges a fee to deliver your order.
- Service Fees: There might also be a service fee.
- Tips: It’s customary to tip your driver. Consider whether you can afford to tip the driver.
Always review your order summary before checking out to see all the charges. Consider a lower priced grocery store if you have budget concerns about extra fees.
Tips for Using DoorDash With SNAP Benefits Successfully
To make the process smoother, here are some helpful tips:
When you’re ordering, make sure you check which stores near you take SNAP benefits. The last thing you want to do is start adding things to your cart, only to find out the store does not accept it!
It’s a good idea to plan your shopping list ahead of time. That way, you know exactly what you need and can avoid impulse purchases that you might not be able to pay for with your EBT card. Look to plan out meals ahead of time.
Also, keep an eye out for deals and discounts. DoorDash sometimes offers promotions that can help reduce the cost of your order, like free delivery or discounts on specific items. This can help you stretch your benefits even further!
Other Options to Consider
If you still want restaurant food, you might have some options that involve some extra steps. Some local food banks might have partnerships with DoorDash or other delivery services to provide meals for people in need. Check if there are programs in your area that can help.
Another option is to see if your local restaurants accept EBT cards for takeout or in-store purchases. You could then pick up the food yourself, avoiding delivery fees.
Here are some other options to think about:
- Local Food Banks: See if they work with delivery services.
- Restaurant Takeout: Some restaurants may accept EBT for pickup.
These alternatives may not be as convenient as DoorDash delivery, but they can help you get the food you need.
Finally, always look at your current budget. If the extra fees from DoorDash make ordering food not cost effective, consider alternative options.
Conclusion
While directly using your EBT card for DoorDash orders from restaurants isn’t usually possible, there are ways to leverage DoorDash for grocery delivery using SNAP benefits. By checking for EBT acceptance at grocery stores, understanding what you can and can’t buy, and planning your orders carefully, you can still have food delivered to your doorstep. Remember to always check the terms and conditions of your EBT benefits and explore all available options to make the most of your resources.