Buying Food Online with SNAP

SNAP recipients in Texas can buy food online. This will make it easier to get food by having the option to pick it up or get it delivered. For questions about how to use your SNAP benefits and Lone Star Card for online purchases, see the frequently asked questions below:

FAQ

Can I use my SNAP benefits to buy groceries online at any store that offers online shopping?

Are there restrictions on the type of food I can purchase online?

Cardholders may use their SNAP benefits to purchase any approved food items.

When ordering food or groceries online, will I have the option to pick it up or have it delivered?

Yes, you will have options to pick up in store or to have it delivered as provided by the retailer. Follow the retailer’s online system instructions for selecting an option when placing your order.

Can I use my SNAP funds to pay for processing, shipping or delivery fees?

Online retailers are not required to waive fees of any type, such as delivery, shipping, service or convenience fees. Any fees, if applicable, cannot be paid with SNAP benefits. The cardholder will be responsible for payment of any applicable fees using an alternate method of payment.

Will I be able to purchase ready-made food or hot foods?

No, ready-made food and hot foods are not eligible to be purchased with SNAP benefits.

Can I make a single online order that includes both SNAP-approved food items and non-approved household items like trash bags, as is the case when I check out in the store using my SNAP card and another form of payment?

Yes, you can split the purchases between your Lone Star Card and another form of payment. The online retailer systems are required to allow only SNAP-eligible items to be charged to your Lone Star Card. The cardholder must follow instructions on the retailer’s online system to pay for non-food items with other payment methods.

If I don’t have enough money on my SNAP card to cover the purchase, can I use another debit or credit card to pay the difference?

Yes, you should be able to use other payment methods if you do not have enough money in your SNAP account.

Will I have to enter my PIN to make the purchase?

Yes, you will be required to enter your PIN for online purchases.

How fast will my SNAP account balance update after I make a purchase?

The amount of the purchase will be deducted from your SNAP balance upon approval of the transaction.

How fast will my SNAP account balance update if I cancel my purchase or make a return?

Your balance will be updated right away for a canceled purchase. If you make a return, your balance will be updated following the online retailer’s return policies and procedures.

Who do I contact if I have issues with my order or want to dispute a transaction?

Contact the online retailer to resolve any issues with your order or to dispute a charge on your card. For example, please contact the online retailer immediately if you find you were charged incorrectly, your account was charged twice for a single purchase, you received a wrong item or you did not receive an ordered item. The contact information should be provided on the retailer’s website.

If you disagree with the resolution provided by the online retailer or if your card was used without your permission, call the Lone Star Card Help Desk at 800-777-7328 to file a dispute.

Can I use my TANF cash benefits when I shop online?

No, only SNAP benefits are approved for online shopping in Texas.