Does Uber Eats Take EBT Cards? (2024)

Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) is an electronic system that allows recipients of government assistance programs, such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), to use a card similar to a debit card to purchase food and other essentials. This system has modernized the distribution of aid, making it easier and more convenient for beneficiaries to access their funds and use them at authorized retailers. As the popularity of online food delivery services grows, many EBT users are curious about whether they can use their benefits on platforms like Uber Eats. This article explores whether Uber Eats accepts EBT and what items can be purchased with EBT through the service.

EBT acceptance at Uber Eats

As of the time of writing, Uber Eats does not accept EBT cards for payment. The primary reason for this is that SNAP benefits, which are distributed via EBT, are intended for purchasing groceries and other essential food items. Online food delivery services like Uber Eats typically deliver prepared meals from restaurants, which do not fall under the categories covered by SNAP. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) oversees the SNAP program and has stringent regulations about what can be purchased with SNAP benefits, focusing on groceries rather than prepared foods.

What can be purchased with EBT?

To understand why Uber Eats does not accept EBT, it’s essential to know what items can be purchased with EBT. Under the SNAP program, EBT can be used to buy:

1. Bread and cereals
2. Fruits and vegetables
3. Meats, fish, and poultry
4. Dairy products
5. Seeds and plants that produce food for the household to eat

EBT benefits cannot be used to buy:

• Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes, or tobacco
• Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
• Live animals (except shellfish, fish removed from water, and animals slaughtered prior to pick-up from the store)
• Prepared foods fit for immediate consumption
• Hot foods
• Non-food items such as pet foods, cleaning supplies, paper products, and cosmetics

Because Uber Eats specializes in delivering prepared meals, it falls into the category of services that are not covered by EBT.

Additional tips

While Uber Eats itself does not accept EBT, there are other avenues through which EBT users can access food delivery services. For example, some grocery stores that accept EBT have their own delivery services or partner with third-party services to deliver groceries. Here are some tips for EBT users looking to use their benefits for delivery:

1. Research local options: Check if local grocery stores offer delivery services that accept EBT. Many large chains like Walmart and Amazon Fresh have integrated EBT payment options for online grocery shopping and delivery.
2. USDA pilot programs: The USDA has initiated pilot programs in several states that allow SNAP beneficiaries to use their EBT cards for online grocery purchases. These programs include partnerships with online retailers like Amazon and Walmart, which can deliver groceries directly to your home.
3. State-specific programs: Some states may have additional programs or specific partnerships with local retailers to facilitate grocery delivery for SNAP recipients. It is worthwhile to check with your state’s SNAP office for more information.
4. Contact customer service: For the most accurate and updated information, contact Uber Eats customer service or visit their official website to inquire about any changes or new programs that might accept EBT in the future.

The bottom line

In summary, Uber Eats does not currently accept EBT as a form of payment due to the nature of its service, which involves delivering prepared meals from restaurants. EBT is designed to cover essential groceries and does not extend to prepared food items typically offered by food delivery services. For EBT users looking to utilize delivery services, researching local grocery stores that accept EBT for delivery and staying informed about USDA pilot programs can provide viable alternatives. For the latest information, contacting your local Uber Eats and exploring state-specific SNAP initiatives is recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my EBT card to pay for food delivery?

No, you cannot use your EBT card to pay for food delivery services like Uber Eats that deliver prepared meals. However, some grocery stores that accept EBT do offer delivery services.

Are there any food delivery services that accept EBT?

While traditional food delivery services like Uber Eats do not accept EBT, some grocery stores with delivery options, such as Walmart and Amazon Fresh, accept EBT for eligible grocery items.

What can I buy with my EBT card?

You can use your EBT card to purchase essential groceries like fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy products, and bread. You cannot use it to buy prepared foods, alcohol, tobacco, or non-food items.

How can I find out if my local grocery store delivers and accepts EBT?

Check the grocery store’s website or contact their customer service for information on delivery options and EBT acceptance. Some stores may also provide this information on the USDA’s website.

Is there any way to use my EBT card for Uber Eats in the future?

As of now, Uber Eats does not accept EBT. However, policies and programs can change, so it’s a good idea to stay informed by checking Uber Eats’ website or contacting their customer service for updates.

What states participate in the USDA’s online purchasing pilot program for EBT?

States participating in the USDA’s pilot program include New York, Washington, Alabama, Iowa, Oregon, Nebraska, and others. Check the USDA’s website for the most current list and details.

Can I use EBT cash benefits on Uber Eats?

EBT cash benefits, as opposed to SNAP benefits, can be withdrawn as cash and used for any purchases, including Uber Eats. However, this depends on the availability of cash withdrawal and the policies of your EBT issuer.

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