Yes, Ingles Markets accepts EBT card payments for in-store purchases. You can use your SNAP benefits at all 198 Ingles stores and 9 Sav-mor Foods locations across six states. However, EBT is not accepted for online orders or the iCurbside pickup service at this time.

How To Use Your EBT Card At Ingles

You can use your EBT card for eligible food purchases inside any Ingles store in North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee, Virginia, and Alabama. You can find the nearest branch using the official store locator. Online payment for delivery or pickup is not an option.

How To Pay With EBT At Ingles

When paying for your groceries, the process is designed to be simple. Here is what you need to know about checking out with your EBT card at Ingles.

• You do not need to separate your SNAP-eligible items from other groceries. The checkout system, including self-checkout, automatically applies your benefits to eligible food items as they are scanned.

• For any items not covered by SNAP, you will need a separate payment method, like a debit or credit card, to cover the remaining balance.

• If you return an item bought with EBT, you will not receive cash. Ingles may credit your EBT card, issue store credit, or provide an identical item.

What Can You Buy With An EBT Card At Ingles?

You can use your SNAP benefits to purchase a wide variety of groceries at Ingles. Here are some of the eligible food categories and unique items you can find in-store.

• Fresh produce like fruits and vegetables, plus meat, poultry, and seafood.

• Dairy products such as milk, cheese, yogurt, and eggs.

• Pantry staples including bread, cereal, and grains.

• Ingles' own Laura Lynn and Milkco brand products, which include dairy, juices, and bottled water.

• A wide selection of organic products, including the Harvest Farms label, and many gluten-free choices.

• Cold deli items, such as pre-packaged salads like the signature Rotisserie Chicken Salad.

Keep in mind that SNAP eligibility rules can vary by state. Some states may have restrictions on items like soda, candy, and other snack foods.

Why Isn’t EBT Accepted for Ingles Online Orders?

Although all Ingles locations accept EBT in-store, this payment option doesn't extend to online or curbside orders. This is due to logistical complexities. To accept EBT online, retailers must meet stringent technical and security standards set by the USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service, which requires significant system upgrades to process transactions correctly.

The USDA manages an online purchasing pilot program, and gaining approval involves a detailed application and testing process. This can be a slow undertaking for any grocery chain. While Ingles continues to expand its iCurbside service, the capability for online EBT payments has not been rolled out, requiring you to shop in-store.