Electronics Benefits Transfer (EBT) Online Purchasing Pilot
In California, CalFresh is the program that helps individuals and families buy food each month. You use an EBT card to spend your CalFresh food benefits.
There is a pilot program that lets CalFresh households buy groceries online using their food benefits. Families participating in the summer food program for children known as SUN Bucks are also able to buy groceries online. Please note: Cash benefits cannot be used for online purchases in this pilot.
Only certain stores allow online shopping with an EBT card. You can use your food benefits online only at stores that are approved for CalFresh online purchasing.
To see which stores are approved, visit this external webpage, Stores that accept SNAP online, maintained by the USDA Federal Nutrition Services. When you click the link, a new tab will open. Once there, choose California from the map or list. You will then see all the stores where you can use your EBT card to buy food online.
Retailer Participation
Are you a retailer interested in the EBT online purchasing pilot? Learn more at this website.
What can I purchase with food benefits?
Food items are defined by federal SNAP EBT guidelines and CalFresh.
Can I pay delivery fees using food benefits?
Food benefits cannot be used for delivery fees. Check with the retailer about available options to pay delivery fees.
Can I return food items purchased with food benefits?
Yes, an item can be returned if you have a receipt. Benefits would be refunded back to the EBT card. Returns cannot be refunded to cash, credit, gift card, or any other form.
Can I use SUN Bucks?
SUN Bucks could be used for eligible SNAP food items.