Grocery Shopping Online with SNAP

Grocery Shopping Online with SNAP

The IDHS (Illinois Department on Human Aging) has announced that SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) customers will be able to shop online for groceries on June 2nd.

The program will be available at any participating retailer, including Walmart and Amazon. As more retailers participate in the program, the list of retailers providing service may grow in the coming weeks.

How It Works

An implementation plan called the IDHS’ SNAP Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) will allow you to enter your PIN into the participating grocers’ online systems.

You will not need to call, visit an office, or do anything further to ensure you can participate in the program. Anyone with an existing Link card in Illinois will automatically be able to purchase their groceries online at participating locations. Notifications to Link cardholders will go out when they are eligible to start the online grocery purchases.

Delivery fees associated with online purchases are not included and may not be paid for with SNAP benefits. However, if you would still like groceries delivered with the associated fees, that is still an option. Retailer websites will list if delivery is an option in your area, depending on your ZIP code.

Who Is Eligible?

When the program begins on June 2nd, anyone with an existing Link card in Illinois will be able to automatically purchase groceries online. There are no other eligibility requirements.

Why it Matters for Seniors

This is especially helpful for senior members of our community. It is a particularly difficult time for many people, and programs like this make all the difference in offering options for individuals in with daily tasks. This will help limit the amount of time spent in the store and the amount of contact with others. This is meant to help keep more individuals safe in this time of uncertainty. And it further increases equity in food access. This program will go beyond the pandemic and become a permanent feature of SNAP.

Conclusion

This is a difficult time for many families. People are working tirelessly to ensure that individuals have programs in place for equal and safe access to food. This program is still in its beginning stages in many other states. As it launches in Illinois, there may be changes and additions that Link cardholders should be notified of.

Welcome To Home Care

FIRST IN COMFORT. FIRST IN CARE.

Homecare Agency for Seniors – Home Care Powered by AUAF

Homecare Agency

Contact Request

773-274-9262