SNAP

Does Dollar Tree take EBT?

Image of Aidan Lovely
Image of Aidan Lovely

Yes, Dollar Tree takes EBT (also called SNAP or food stamps) in person at all its U.S. stores. You can’t use EBT to shop online at Dollar Tree, but you can use the Dollar Tree app to check prices before you go or use the barcode scanner while you shop.

Tips for shopping at Dollar Tree with an EBT card:

  • Make sure you’re familiar with the rules about SNAP-eligible food items. If you plan to buy non-food items, like cleaning supplies, bring cash or a debit or credit card.
  • Keep EBT and non-EBT items separate in your cart. You can buy EBT-eligible and non-EBT items at Dollar Tree in one trip, but keeping them separate will make checkout easier.
  • Track your monthly EBT balance and budget for your next grocery run with an app like Propel.

Can you use EBT at Dollar Tree self-checkout?#can-you-use-ebt-at-dollar-tree-self-checkout

Yes, you can use your EBT card at Dollar Tree at both self-checkout and regular checkout (but not all Dollar Tree stores have self-checkout lanes).

If you prefer self-checkout, you can always call a Dollar Tree near you to ask if they have self-checkout lanes. To find your local Dollar Tree, use the Dollar Tree online store locator tool.

Can I split my payment between my EBT card and cash at Dollar Tree?#can-i-split-my-payment-between-my-ebt-card-and-cash-at-dollar-tree

Yes, you can split your payment at Dollar Tree. You can use EBT in combination with cash, debit, credit, or another payment method. Tell your cashier how you want to split the payment when you reach the counter.

Remember that your EBT card will only work on approved food items, so if you get SNAP benefits, you can only use them on SNAP-eligible items.

The cashier or payment system will inform you if an item isn't eligible. After a sale, Dollar Tree cannot reverse the payment, so double-check and confirm the amount before entering your PIN.

Can you use EBT at Dollar Tree online?#can-you-use-ebt-at-dollar-tree-online

No, you can’t use your EBT card to buy food online at Dollar Tree. You must shop in person at a store near you.

If you’re looking for a similar store, you can use your EBT card online at Family Dollar when you shop through Instacart. Family Dollar is a sister store to Dollar Tree and offers same-day delivery.

Family Dollar and Dollar Tree are owned by the same company and both stores offer budget-friendly options. Learn how to use your EBT card online with Instacart at other approved stores.

What can I buy with EBT at Dollar Tree?#what-can-i-buy-with-ebt-at-dollar-tree

An image showing SNAP-eligible groceries like eggs, carrots, tuna, soda, and cereal

You can use your EBT card to buy any SNAP-eligible food items at Dollar Tree, including:

  • Canned goods, packaged meals, herbs and spices, and baking mixes
  • Bread, cereals, and pasta
  • Cold, non-alcoholic drinks like milk, soda, and orange juice
  • Candy and snacks, like Dollar Tree’s holiday-themed treats

What isn’t EBT eligible at Dollar Tree?#what-isnt-ebt-eligible-at-dollar-tree

An image showing items that are not eligible for SNAP, including hot chicken, medicine, paper towels, and pet food

If you have SNAP funds on your EBT card, you can only buy SNAP-eligible food items, which means you can’t use your EBT card on things like:

  • Hot food and drinks, including hot coffee, hot tea, or anything else sold hot
  • Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
  • Alcohol and tobacco products
  • Cleaning products, paper towels, or toilet paper
  • Non-food items like toys, games, or clothes

If you receive benefits through TANF, sometimes called cash EBT, you may be able to use that on non-food items at Dollar Tree. Check your state's guidance for eligible items and call your local Dollar Tree to see if it accepts cash EBT.

Protecting your EBT card while shopping at Dollar Tree#protecting-your-ebt-card-while-shopping-at-dollar-tree

It's important to protect your benefits, no matter where you’re shopping. Here’s how to keep your EBT card safe from theft while shopping at Dollar Tree:

  • Check the card reader for anything that doesn’t look right or might be an indication of a card skimmer. If any buttons are hard to push, the card reader shakes, or sits at an odd angle, don't use it and alert an employee
  • Don't share your EBT card PIN with anyone. Change it each month before your deposit arrives
  • Use the Propel app to monitor your EBT card activity and check for any suspicious transactions

Report a lost or stolen card immediately by calling your state’s EBT number.