Big Lots is a national retailer that offers a wide variety of products, including food. While they do accept SNAP benefits (also known as EBT or food stamps) for certain food items, there are some restrictions. To use SNAP benefits at Big Lots, customers must purchase eligible food items separately from non-eligible items. Additionally, Big Lots does not accept SNAP benefits for items such as alcohol, tobacco, or pet food. Customers should check with their local Big Lots store for more information on what food items are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
Where to Find Big Lots That Accept EBT
Currently, Big Lots does not accept EBT cards in any of its stores. This policy applies to all Big Lots locations nationwide, including those in states that allow for the use of EBT cards at certain retailers. The company has not provided a reason for this policy, but it is likely due to the high cost associated with accepting EBT cards.
Until the company makes a change, EBT cardholders will not be able to purchase food or other eligible items at Big Lots using their EBT benefits.
If you are looking for a place to use your EBT card, you can use the following resources:
- The USDA’s SNAP Retailer Locator: https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/retailer-locator
- Your state’s Department of Human Services website
- A local food bank or pantry
Types of EBT Cards Accepted at Big Lots
Big Lots accepts various types of Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards, allowing customers to purchase eligible food items using their government-issued benefits.
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) EBT Cards: These cards are issued to low-income individuals and families to help them purchase nutritious food.
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) EBT Cards: These cards are issued to families receiving temporary financial assistance from the government.
- Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) EBT Cards: These cards are issued to pregnant, breastfeeding, and postpartum women, as well as infants and children under the age of 5, to help them purchase healthy food.
Each type of EBT card has specific eligibility requirements and benefits. Customers should contact their local government agency or visit the EBT website for more information about the EBT program and card availability.
What Can You Buy with EBT at Big Lots?
Big Lots allows customers to use their EBT cards to purchase a wide variety of eligible food items, including:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Meat and poultry
- Fish and seafood
- Dairy products
- Eggs
- Bread and cereal
- Snacks and beverages
Customers can also use their EBT cards at Big Lots to purchase certain non-food items, such as:
- Seeds and plants
- Fertilizer and soil
- Pet food and supplies
Customers should note that not all items sold at Big Lots are eligible for purchase with EBT cards. Alcohol, tobacco, and other non-food items are not eligible for purchase with EBT cards.
How to Use Your EBT Card at Big Lots
To use your EBT card at Big Lots, follow these steps:
- Select Eligible Items: Select eligible food items and non-food items (if applicable) from the store shelves.
- Proceed to Checkout: Take the selected items to the checkout counter.
- Swipe Your EBT Card: Swipe your EBT card at the checkout terminal.
- Enter Your PIN: Enter your four-digit Personal Identification Number (PIN) on the keypad.
- Complete the Transaction: Once the transaction is complete, the checkout attendant will provide you with a receipt.
Additional Information
Here are some additional things to keep in mind about using your EBT card at Big Lots:
- EBT cards are accepted at all Big Lots stores nationwide.
- You can use your EBT card to purchase eligible items online at Big Lots.com.
- The amount of benefits available on your EBT card varies based on your eligibility and the program you are enrolled in.
- You can check your EBT card balance online or by calling the customer service number on the back of your card.
| Contact Method | Phone Number | Website |
|---|---|---|
| SNAP | 1-800-333-4636 | www.fns.usda.gov/snap |
| TANF | Contact your local government agency | www.acf.hhs.gov/ofa/programs/tanf |
| WIC | Contact your local WIC office | www.fns.usda.gov/wic |
EBT at Big Lots: A Comprehensive Guide
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly known as food stamps, allows low-income individuals and families to purchase food items. As a large retailer with over 1,400 stores across the United States, Big Lots is a popular shopping destination for those seeking affordable products. This article explores whether Big Lots accepts EBT and provides detailed information about the restrictions associated with using EBT at this store.
Accepted Items
- Eligible food items as defined by the USDA
- Food-producing plants and seeds
- Non-food items essential for food preparation, such as cooking oils
Ineligible Items
- Alcohol
- Tobacco products
- Pet food
- Vitamins and supplements
- Household items
- Cleaning supplies
- Cosmetics
- Gift cards
Restrictions on Using EBT at Big Lots
While Big Lots accepts EBT for eligible food items, there are certain restrictions in place:
- EBT cards cannot be used to purchase non-food items, including household items, cleaning supplies, and cosmetics.
- EBT cards cannot be used to purchase prepared foods or hot meals.
- EBT cards cannot be used to purchase items online from Big Lots.
- EBT cards cannot be used to purchase items at Big Lots Express locations.
Payment Methods
In addition to EBT, Big Lots accepts a variety of payment methods, including cash, credit cards, debit cards, and gift cards.
| Payment Method | Accepted |
|---|---|
| EBT | Yes |
| Cash | Yes |
| Credit Cards | Yes |
| Debit Cards | Yes |
| Gift Cards | Yes |
Conclusion
Big Lots accepts EBT for eligible food items, but there are certain restrictions in place. EBT cannot be used to purchase non-food items, prepared foods, hot meals, or items online. Additionally, EBT is not accepted at Big Lots Express locations. Customers can use a variety of other payment methods, including cash, credit cards, debit cards, and gift cards.
Thanks for taking the time to read about whether Big Lots accepts EBT food stamps. I hope this article has answered all of your questions. If you have any more questions, please feel free to leave a comment below. I’ll be checking back regularly to answer any questions you may have. In the meantime, be sure to check out some of my other articles on Big Lots and other retailers that accept EBT food stamps. Thanks again for reading, and I hope to see you back here again soon!