Does CVS Take EBT & Food Stamps in 2024? (Full Guide)
With grocery prices rising, EBT recipients need to know where they can maximize their food stamp benefits. CVS Pharmacy, with over 9,900 locations, is one of the most widely available chains across the United States. However, not every store participates in the SNAP EBT program.
As an EBT expert, I regularly receive questions from clients about using their benefits at major retailers like CVS. Here is the complete guide on whether and how to use EBT at CVS in 2024.
CVS Store Participation in SNAP EBT
According to 2022 USDA data, 6,981 CVS locations (70% of stores) are authorized to accept SNAP EBT payments. This makes CVS one of the largest national chains participating in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.
However, SNAP acceptance varies by location. Before visiting your local CVS, always confirm whether they accept EBT by calling customer service or checking the SNAP Retailer Locator. This saves you an unnecessary trip if that particular CVS does not participate.
Purchasing Eligible Foods with EBT at CVS
At authorized locations, the EBT payment process at CVS is quick and convenient:
- Swipe your EBT card at checkout when prompted for payment
- Enter your unique PIN number
- Cashier verifies purchase amount
- Collect receipt showing updated balance
Your EBT benefits can be used to purchase any SNAP-eligible foods at CVS, including:
- Breads, cereals, pasta, rice
- Fruits, vegetables, juice
- Meat, poultry, fish
- Dairy products, eggs
- Snack foods, non-alcoholic beverages
However, CVS is a pharmacy retailer, so selection of SNAP-approved grocery staples may be limited compared to supermarkets. When shopping for essentials like meat and produce, I recommend EBT users also visit grocery stores or supercenters with more extensive food sections.
Ineligible Purchases with EBT Cards
It‘s important to know that EBT cards can only be used for SNAP-eligible foods. The following products cannot be purchased with EBT benefits at CVS:
- Hot prepared foods
- Vitamins, medicines
- Pet food
- Household supplies
- Cosmetics, hygiene items
- Alcohol, tobacco
- Paper products, cleaning supplies
See the chart below for a quick guide to allowed and prohibited EBT purchases at CVS:
| Eligible EBT Purchases | Ineligible EBT Purchases |
|---|---|
| Breads, cereals | Hot foods |
| Fruits, vegetables | Vitamins, medicine |
| Meats, poultry, fish | Pet food |
| Eggs, dairy products | Household supplies |
| Snack foods | Cosmetics |
| Non-alcoholic drinks | Alcohol, tobacco |
Maximize Your EBT Benefits at CVS
As an EBT expert assisting low-income families, I recommend using your SNAP benefits strategically at retailers like CVS. Here are my top tips:
Compare prices. CVS runs promotions on SNAP-eligible staples, but may cost more than discount grocery chains for some items.
Check your balance. Know your EBT balance before shopping to avoid payment issues at checkout.
Buy in bulk. Stock up on shelf-stable essentials when CVS runs BOGO deals or promotions.
Freeze extras. For items on sale like meat or bread, freeze extras to extend the value.
Combine with coupons. Use manufacturer coupons on eligible foods to save more on your EBT budget.
Other Major Retailers That Accept EBT
If your neighborhood CVS does not take EBT, many other major chains accept SNAP payments. According to USDA data, top national retailers participating in SNAP include:
- Walmart (4,650 stores)
- Kroger (2,642 stores)
- Dollar General (12,000 stores)
- Target (1,905 stores)
- Walgreens (8,600 stores)
Check your state‘s EBT website or the SNAP Retailer Locator to find in-network grocers nearby. Convenience stores, farmers markets, and other smaller food retailers may also accept SNAP benefits.
The Bottom Line on Using EBT at CVS
As America‘s second largest pharmacy chain, CVS offers convenience for EBT recipients – but only at participating locations. Always call ahead or check the USDA SNAP retailer map to confirm your neighborhood CVS accepts EBT.
Use this guide to understand how to purchase grocery staples at CVS using your SNAP benefits. Combining EBT with coupons, bulk deals, and price comparisons can help maximize your food dollars. With planning, you can successfully use your EBT card at CVS and other major chains.
