SNAP

Does ALDI take EBT?

Updated
Image of Julianna Lai
Image of Julianna Lai
Table of contents

Yes, ALDI accepts EBT cards for SNAP-eligible items at all U.S. store locations and on the ALDI website, which offers curbside grocery pickup and home delivery. ALDI’s discount grocery model and store-brand products can help stretch your food budget, so it can be a good option for cheaper groceries if you’re working around your SNAP budget.

Tips for shopping at ALDI with an EBT card:

Can you use EBT at ALDI self-checkout?

Yes, you can use your EBT card at both self-checkout and regular checkout lanes at ALDI. Simply swipe your card and enter your PIN when prompted.

Be aware of potential illegal skimming devices attached to the card reader placed by thieves trying to get your EBT card information (a good way to check for skimming devices is to give the card reader a gentle tug before swiping your EBT card).

Can you use EBT at ALDI online?

Yes, ALDI accepts EBT for in-store purchases and online orders, including delivery and curbside pickup through the ALDI website or app—no minimum order amount required. ALDI also accepts EBT for online orders through Instacart in most locations.

When ordering ALDI online with EBT, you'll need a backup payment method. Your EBT card will be charged the amount you approve at checkout, but your backup card may be charged if the final total increases due to:

  • Higher-priced substitutions
  • Changes in weight for produce or meat
  • Expired promotions
  • Added items during pickup

For example, if a substitute brand of milk costs more than the one you chose or your bananas weigh more than estimated, the difference will be charged to your backup card.

If a product is SNAP-eligible, it will be highlighted by a blue badge on the product cards. On product detail pages, this information is listed in the product details.

To order online with EBT at ALDI:

  • Create an ALDI account on the website or in the ALDI app
  • Add a backup payment method for fees, delivery tips, and non-SNAP items
  • Choose how much of your EBT balance to apply at checkout and enter your PIN (your backup card will cover any remaining balance)
  • Cancel and reorder if you need to make changes after placing the order

What can I buy with EBT at ALDI?

A selection of SNAP-eligible grocery items, including canned fish, a carrot, a bottle of soda, and a carton of eggs

You can buy any SNAP-eligible food items at ALDI with your EBT card. Here are some common SNAP-eligible items:

  • Fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables
  • Meat, poultry, and fish
  • Dairy products and eggs
  • Bread, cereals, pasta, and other grains
  • Snack foods like pretzels and nuts
  • Non-alcoholic beverages like orange juice and bottled water

Some surprising things you can buy with EBT at ALDI include:

  • Raw or frozen meats and seafood
  • Live shellfish and fish removed from water at the store
  • Sealed containers of ice cream
  • Packaged coffee beans and tea bags—as long as it has a “Nutrition Facts” label

EBT tip

If you're planning to use most or all of your remaining EBT balance, let the ALDI cashier know the amount available on your card before they start scanning. This helps avoid any issues if your purchase total exceeds your remaining balance. Use your EBT card first, before other forms of payment.

Can you buy ALDI's prepared foods with EBT?

No, you can’t use your SNAP benefits to buy hot foods and ready-to-eat prepared items. However, you can buy ALDI’s packaged frozen meals (like frozen pizzas) and ingredients (like frozen french fries or riced cauliflower) to prepare at home.

What isn't EBT-eligible at ALDI?

A selection of grocery items that are not SNAP-eligible, including paper towels, vitamins, and pet food

You can’t buy these items with EBT at ALDI:

  • Any food that's hot when you buy it, including hot coffee, hot tea, soup, or hot pizza
  • Vitamins, medicines, and any item that has a “Supplement Facts” label
  • Household supplies like cleaning products
  • Pet food or treats
  • Alcohol and tobacco products
  • Non-food items like clothing, electronics, or toys

The main exception to these rules is the Restaurant Meals Program, which allows some SNAP recipients to buy prepared foods at approved restaurants. This program helps people who might have trouble cooking, including older adults, people with disabilities, and people who are unhoused.

Can you get discounts with EBT at ALDI?

No, ALDI doesn't offer specific EBT discounts. ALDI also doesn’t accept coupons of any kind, but ALDI’s prices are typically lower than traditional grocery stores. Keep costs down by shopping ALDI-brand products and weekly special buys.

Does ALDI take WIC?

No, ALDI does not currently accept WIC benefits. If you receive WIC (which is a separate benefit program for pregnant people and people caring for young children), you'll need to shop at WIC-authorized retailers for those specific items.

Protecting your EBT card while shopping at ALDI

No matter where you’re swiping your EBT card, it’s important to protect your information. Here’s how to keep your EBT card safe while shopping at ALDI:

  • Never share your PIN with anyone, including ALDI employees
  • Keep your EBT card in a secure place
  • Change your PIN every month before your deposit lands
  • Check your EBT balance regularly to spot any unusual activity (the Propel app makes it easy to check your balance)
  • Report a lost or stolen card immediately by calling your state EBT number

How to save money when shopping with EBT at ALDI

Here are practical ways to maximize your SNAP benefits when you’re using your EBT card at ALDI:

  • Watch for stickers: Red stickers, "ALDI Savers" tags, and "Prices So Low" stickers indicate discounts on perishables near sell-by dates. "D" stickers mark discontinued items.
  • Shop Wednesdays: New weekly deals, limited-time discounts, and ALDI Finds are released in the middle of the week.
  • Check markdown timing: Each ALDI store has different markdown schedules for perishables like meat and dairy approaching sell-by dates. Ask your store when it typically does markdowns.
  • Know the basics: Bring your own bags or laundry basket (they aren't free), and bring a quarter for the cart deposit (you'll get it back).
  • Take advantage of guarantees: The "Twice As Nice" guarantee replaces items and refunds money if you're unsatisfied with ALDI-exclusive products. It doesn't apply to national brands, alcohol, ALDI Finds, or non-quality issues. Check your receipt for the return policy.
  • Look for specific deals: Best savings are on fresh meat (especially Manager's Specials and family packs), produce, and butter. Check family-sized packs of chicken, beef, and pork for extra savings.
  • Check specialty products: Try LiveGfree brand for affordable gluten-free options (baking mixes, pastas, chips) and Simply Nature for lower-priced organic, non-GMO, and dye-free products.
  • Use the app: Download ALDI’s mobile app for weekly ads, price reductions, and making focused shopping lists.
  • Plan ahead: Create a shopping list using the ALDI app and plan meals around weekly sales.
  • Look beyond groceries: Visit ALDI Finds for significant discounts on items like furniture, gardening supplies, and household goods—these change weekly.

One final tip: Check ALDI’s discount sections first before shopping for regular-priced items to maximize your savings.