Yes, Big Lots accepts EBT cards for in-store purchases of eligible food items. However, this is not a company-wide policy, as acceptance can vary by location. You cannot use your EBT card for any online orders made through the Big Lots website.

How To Use EBT At Big Lots

You can use your EBT card for in-store purchases at participating Big Lots locations. Since not all stores accept EBT, it is best to call your local branch ahead of time to confirm. Your EBT card can only be used for SNAP-eligible food items.

Big Lots does not accept EBT for any online transactions, including orders placed through its website or third-party delivery apps like Instacart or Uber Eats. All EBT payments must be made in person.

While you cannot pay online, you can use EBT for curbside pickup orders. You will need to go into the store to complete the payment with your EBT card when you collect your items. To find a store, use the official Big Lots store locator and call to verify its EBT policy.

How To Pay With EBT

When paying with your EBT card at a Big Lots checkout, the process is straightforward. You will need to separate your items and may need a second payment method for non-eligible goods.

• Separate your SNAP-eligible food items from other merchandise before checkout. You will need another form of payment, like a debit or credit card, for any non-food items you wish to purchase.

• Inform the cashier you are paying with EBT and enter your Personal Identification Number (PIN) on the keypad to authorize the transaction for the eligible food items.

• Only items with a “Nutrition Facts” label are typically SNAP-eligible. If you are unsure, you can ask the cashier to scan an item to confirm if it is covered by your EBT benefits.

What Can You Buy With An EBT Card At Big Lots?

Your EBT card can be used for a wide range of SNAP-eligible food items. Big Lots offers pantry staples, snacks, and beverages, but the specific items available can differ between stores.

• Pantry staples and baking supplies: You can find items like bread, rice, cereal, pasta, and canned goods. Big Lots also carries baking supplies such as flour, sugar, and cooking oils.

• Proteins and dairy: Your benefits cover fresh, frozen, or canned meat, poultry, and fish. Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt are also eligible for purchase.

• Produce and plants: You can purchase a variety of fresh, frozen, or canned fruits and vegetables. Some locations may also offer seeds and plants that produce food for home gardens.

• Snacks and beverages: Many packaged snacks like chips, cookies, and crackers are eligible. You can also buy non-alcoholic drinks such as juice, soda, and bottled water.

• Bulk and discounted foods: Big Lots is known for its discounted packaged foods. You may find deals on name-brand snacks and other pantry items sold in bulk.

It is important to know that the eligibility of specific food items can vary by location. An item might not be coded correctly in the payment system at one store, even if it has a “Nutrition Facts” label.

Why Isn’t EBT Accepted at More Big Lots Locations?

While many Big Lots stores accept EBT, you may find it’s not a universal policy. This is because each location must be individually approved by the USDA's Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), a separate certification process for every store. For managers at locations where food is a minor part of sales, this administrative hurdle can discourage participation.

Additionally, supporting EBT payments introduces technical complexities. Each store’s point-of-sale system must be programmed to differentiate SNAP-eligible groceries from other merchandise and process transactions correctly. For a retailer with a varied inventory, the initial setup and ongoing maintenance can be a significant operational commitment, deterring some locations from participating.