Does Costco Accept EBT in 2026? Everything You Need to Know
As grocery prices continue to rise in 2026, many families using SNAP benefits are looking for affordable ways to stretch their food budgets. One common question that keeps coming up is: does Costco accept EBT in 2026? With its bulk pricing, wholesale discounts, and wide selection of groceries, Costco can be an attractive option for households relying on Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards—but the rules are not always clear.
In this guide, we break down Costco’s EBT policy for 2026, including where EBT is accepted, what food items qualify under SNAP guidelines, and the key limitations shoppers need to know before heading to a Costco warehouse.
If you’re wondering whether you can use your EBT card at Costco and how to make the most of your benefits, this article gives you clear, up-to-date answers.
Costco EBT Policy Explained (2026 Update)
In 2026, Costco accepts EBT cards for in-store purchases at most U.S. warehouse locations. Shoppers enrolled in the SNAP program can use their EBT cards to buy eligible food items that meet federal SNAP guidelines. The checkout process works like a debit card, but purchases are limited to approved groceries only.
EBT is not accepted for online orders, delivery services, or Costco.com purchases. To use SNAP benefits at Costco, shoppers must visit a physical warehouse location.
A Costco membership is still required, even when paying with EBT. SNAP benefits do not cover membership fees. While some stores may allow shopping with a Costco Shop Card, this is not guaranteed.
Eligible purchases include fresh produce, meat, dairy, bread, frozen foods, and pantry staples. Prepared foods, household items, and non-food products are excluded.
Does Costco Accept EBT in 2026?
Yes, in 2026, Costco accepts EBT cards at most U.S. warehouse locations for eligible SNAP purchases. If you are enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), you can use your EBT card in-store to buy groceries approved by federal guidelines. However, EBT cannot be used for online orders, delivery services, or Costco.com purchases.
Costco still requires a membership to shop, even when using EBT, and SNAP benefits do not cover membership fees. Some locations may allow shopping with a Costco Shop Card, but this varies by warehouse and is not guaranteed.
Eligible items include fresh fruits and vegetables, meat, poultry, dairy, bread, frozen foods, and pantry staples. Non-food items, prepared meals, and household goods are not covered. Understanding these rules helps SNAP recipients shop confidently and make the most of their benefits at Costco in 2026.
Which Costco Locations Accept EBT?
In 2026, most Costco warehouse locations in the United States accept EBT cards for SNAP-approved grocery purchases. Shoppers can use their EBT card in-store to pay for eligible food items, including fresh produce, meat, dairy, bread, and frozen foods. However, EBT cannot be used for non-food items, prepared meals, or online orders.
While Costco operates warehouses nationwide, EBT acceptance may vary slightly by state or individual location. It’s always a good idea to check with your local warehouse before shopping to confirm they accept EBT and to clarify any membership requirements.
Remember, Costco still requires a membership to shop in-store, even when using EBT, and SNAP benefits do not cover membership fees. Planning ahead and verifying your warehouse’s policy ensures a smooth shopping experience and helps SNAP recipients make the most of their benefits at Costco in 2026.
In-Store vs Online: Where Costco Accepts SNAP Benefits
In 2026, Costco accepts EBT cards for SNAP-approved purchases only at physical warehouse locations. Shoppers can use their EBT cards in-store to buy groceries like fresh produce, meat, dairy, bread, frozen foods, and pantry staples. This makes Costco a convenient option for SNAP recipients who want to save on bulk purchases.
However, Costco does not accept EBT for online orders, delivery, or Costco.com purchases. Unlike some retailers that offer SNAP-friendly online shopping or curbside pickup, Costco requires shoppers to be physically present in the warehouse to use their benefits.
Additionally, Costco requires a membership to shop, even when paying with EBT, and SNAP benefits do not cover membership fees. Knowing the difference between in-store and online EBT acceptance helps SNAP recipients plan their grocery trips efficiently and ensures they can maximize their benefits while shopping at Costco in 2026.
Costco EBT Rules Most Shoppers Don’t Know
Many shoppers are unaware of the specific rules for using EBT at Costco in 2026. While Costco accepts SNAP benefits in-store, there are important restrictions that can affect your shopping experience.
First, EBT can only be used for eligible grocery items, such as fresh produce, meat, dairy, bread, frozen foods, and pantry staples. Items like household goods, prepared foods from the food court, alcohol, and non-food products cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits.
Second, Costco requires a membership to shop, even when paying with EBT. SNAP benefits do not cover the membership fee.
Finally, EBT is not accepted online or for delivery, including Costco.com and third-party services like Instacart. Planning ahead and understanding these rules ensures a smooth shopping experience and helps SNAP recipients maximize the value of their benefits at Costco in 2026.
Does Costco Require a Membership for EBT Purchases?
Yes, Costco requires a membership to shop, even when using an EBT card for SNAP-approved groceries in 2026. SNAP benefits can cover eligible food items, but they cannot be used to pay for Costco membership fees. This membership requirement applies to all shoppers, regardless of payment method.
Some people may consider using a Costco Shop Card (gift card) to bypass the membership, but this depends on the store and is not guaranteed. The safest approach is to maintain a valid membership to ensure you can shop without issues.
Eligible purchases with EBT at Costco include fresh produce, meat, dairy, bread, frozen foods, and pantry staples. Non-food items, prepared meals, and household goods are excluded.
Understanding the membership requirement and eligible items helps SNAP recipients plan grocery trips efficiently and maximize their benefits while shopping at Costco in 2026.
Can You Use EBT at Costco Without a Membership?
No, you generally cannot use EBT at Costco without a membership. In 2026, Costco requires all shoppers to have a valid membership, even if they are paying with a SNAP EBT card. SNAP benefits can only cover eligible grocery items, not the membership fee, so an active membership is necessary to shop at any warehouse location.
Some locations may allow the use of a Costco Shop Card (gift card) in place of a membership, but this policy varies by store and is not guaranteed. Relying on this workaround may result in being unable to complete a purchase.
Eligible purchases with EBT at Costco include fresh produce, meat, dairy, bread, frozen foods, and pantry staples, while non-food items, household goods, and prepared meals are excluded.
Knowing this rule ensures SNAP recipients plan their visits correctly and avoid surprises at checkout while shopping at Costco in 2026.
READ ALSO: How Much is Costco Pizza at Food Court?
Why Costco Does Not Accept EBT Online
In 2026, Costco does not accept EBT for online orders, including Costco.com and third-party delivery services. While many retailers have integrated SNAP benefits into their online checkout systems, Costco restricts EBT use to in-store purchases only.
The main reason is that SNAP regulations require physical verification of eligible items during checkout. Grocery items must be reviewed to ensure only approved foods are purchased, which is easier to manage in a warehouse setting than online.
Additionally, Costco’s online platform includes non-EBT-eligible products such as prepared foods, household items, and electronics. Accepting EBT online could complicate transactions and violate federal SNAP rules.
Shoppers using SNAP benefits should plan to visit a physical Costco warehouse for grocery shopping. Knowing this limitation helps EBT users avoid frustration and ensures they can maximize their benefits effectively when shopping at Costco in 2026.
What Foods Are SNAP-Eligible at Costco?
If you’re using an EBT card at Costco in 2026, it’s important to know which items qualify under SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) guidelines. Only eligible groceries can be purchased with EBT benefits, while non-food items are excluded.
At Costco, SNAP-approved items include:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Meat, poultry, and seafood
- Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt
- Bread, cereals, rice, and pasta
- Frozen foods and pantry staples
These items must be intended for home preparation and consumption. SNAP benefits cannot be used for hot prepared foods, food court meals, alcohol, tobacco, vitamins, supplements, or household goods.
Shopping smart and focusing on these eligible food items allows SNAP recipients to stretch their benefits further. Costco’s bulk pricing makes it especially useful for families seeking cost-effective grocery solutions while adhering to SNAP rules in 2026.
Items You Cannot Buy With EBT at Costco
While Costco accepts EBT for SNAP-approved groceries in 2026, there are several items that cannot be purchased using your benefits. SNAP rules strictly limit purchases to food meant for home consumption, excluding non-food and prepared items.
At Costco, the following items are not eligible for EBT:
- Prepared or hot foods, including the food court menu
- Alcohol, beer, and wine
- Tobacco products
- Vitamins, supplements, and protein powders
- Household items like paper towels, cleaning supplies, and cookware
- Electronics, clothing, and furniture
If your shopping cart contains both eligible and non-eligible items, you must pay for restricted products with cash, debit, or credit.
Understanding which items are excluded helps SNAP recipients avoid checkout issues, plan grocery trips efficiently, and maximize their EBT benefits at Costco in 2026. Focusing on eligible groceries ensures your benefits go further and reduce unnecessary spending.
READ ALSO: How Much Does Costco Pay Per Hour?
Is Costco Cheaper Than Walmart for SNAP Shoppers?
For SNAP recipients using EBT, comparing Costco and Walmart in 2026 depends on shopping habits and item selection. Costco offers bulk groceries, which often lowers the per-unit cost of food, making it ideal for families who can store and use larger quantities. SNAP-approved items like fresh produce, meat, dairy, bread, and pantry staples can provide long-term savings at Costco.
Walmart, on the other hand, offers smaller package sizes and a wider variety of items available for purchase with EBT, including some online and curbside options. This can be convenient for shoppers who do not need bulk quantities or want to avoid paying a membership fee.
Ultimately, Costco may save more money per unit, while Walmart provides flexibility and accessibility. SNAP recipients should compare prices, quantity needs, and convenience to decide which store works best for their grocery budget in 2026.
Best Bulk Foods to Buy at Costco With EBT
Using EBT at Costco in 2026 allows SNAP recipients to purchase bulk groceries, which can help stretch benefits further. While shopping, it’s best to focus on items that are eligible under SNAP guidelines and have a long shelf life.
Some of the best bulk foods to buy at Costco with EBT include:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables (apples, carrots, potatoes)
- Meat, poultry, and seafood (frozen or fresh)
- Dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt)
- Bread, rice, pasta, and cereals
- Frozen meals or pantry staples (beans, canned vegetables, peanut butter)
Buying in bulk helps families save money per unit and reduce frequent trips to the grocery store. Avoid non-eligible items like household goods, vitamins, or prepared foods.
By focusing on SNAP-approved bulk items, Costco shoppers can maximize the value of their EBT benefits while maintaining a stocked and affordable grocery supply in 2026.
Can You Use EBT at Costco Food Court?
No, EBT cannot be used at Costco food courts in 2026. SNAP benefits are only valid for eligible groceries meant for home preparation and consumption, and prepared foods from the food court do not qualify. This includes popular items like pizza, hot dogs, sandwiches, and fountain drinks.
Even though food court items are sold in Costco warehouses, federal SNAP guidelines prohibit their purchase with EBT cards. Attempting to pay with EBT at the food court will result in a declined transaction.
Shoppers using SNAP benefits should focus on buying fresh produce, meat, dairy, bread, frozen foods, and pantry staples inside the warehouse instead.
Understanding this rule ensures SNAP recipients avoid confusion and checkout delays. By sticking to eligible groceries, shoppers can maximize their EBT benefits and enjoy cost savings when shopping at Costco in 2026.
READ ALSO: How Much Are Postage Stamps at Costco?
Does Costco Accept EBT for Instacart or Delivery?
No, in 2026, Costco does not accept EBT for Instacart orders or delivery services. SNAP benefits can only be used for in-store purchases at participating Costco warehouse locations. Online orders, including Costco.com and third-party delivery platforms like Instacart, are not eligible for EBT payments.
This limitation exists because SNAP regulations require physical verification of eligible items at checkout. Online platforms include non-eligible products such as prepared foods, household goods, and electronics, which cannot be purchased with EBT.
Shoppers using SNAP benefits should plan to visit a Costco warehouse in person to use their EBT card. By doing so, they can purchase eligible groceries such as fresh produce, meat, dairy, bread, frozen foods, and pantry staples.
Understanding these rules helps SNAP recipients maximize their benefits efficiently and avoid frustration when shopping at Costco in 2026.
Can You Split Payments at Costco Using EBT?
Yes, at Costco in 2026, you can split payments between your EBT card and another payment method. This is useful when your shopping cart includes both SNAP-eligible items and non-eligible products such as household goods, prepared foods, or electronics.
To do this, simply pay for eligible groceries with your EBT card, and use cash, debit, or credit for the remaining non-eligible items. Costco’s registers are set up to handle split transactions, ensuring you can complete your purchase smoothly without removing items from your cart.
Eligible items for EBT include fresh produce, meat, dairy, bread, frozen foods, and pantry staples, while non-eligible items cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits.
Understanding how to split payments allows SNAP recipients to maximize their benefits, buy additional non-food items in the same trip, and avoid checkout issues while shopping efficiently at Costco in 2026.
What Happens If Your EBT Balance Is Not Enough?
If your EBT balance is insufficient at Costco in 2026, you will need to pay the remaining amount with another form of payment, such as cash, debit, or credit. SNAP benefits can only cover eligible grocery items, and any non-food items or excess amounts beyond your balance must be paid separately.
At the register, Costco allows split payments, making it easy to combine EBT with another method to complete your purchase. Eligible items include fresh produce, meat, dairy, bread, frozen foods, and pantry staples, while non-eligible items must always be paid with alternate payment methods.
Planning ahead is essential to avoid surprises at checkout. Checking your EBT balance before shopping ensures you know how much SNAP funding is available, allowing you to maximize benefits, stay within your budget, and make the most of your Costco shopping trip in 2026.
Does Costco Accept EBT in All States?
In 2026, most Costco warehouse locations in the United States accept EBT for SNAP-approved groceries, but acceptance can vary slightly depending on state regulations. Each state administers its own SNAP program, which means policies may differ regarding the use of EBT at warehouse stores.
While Costco strives to accept EBT nationwide, it’s always a good idea to check with your local warehouse before shopping. This ensures your EBT card will be accepted and clarifies any state-specific requirements.
Eligible purchases with EBT include fresh produce, meat, dairy, bread, frozen foods, and pantry staples. Non-food items, prepared meals, alcohol, and household goods remain excluded.
Verifying EBT acceptance in your state helps SNAP recipients avoid surprises at checkout, plan grocery trips efficiently, and maximize the value of their benefits while shopping at Costco in 2026.
