Walmart+ Assist is a program designed to make Walmart's membership service more accessible to individuals receiving government assistance, including EBT cardholders in Stanislaus County. This initiative offers significant savings and convenient shopping options, helping eligible customers stretch their budgets and simplify their shopping experience.

What is Walmart+ Assist?

Walmart+ Assist is a discounted version of the regular Walmart+ membership program. It offers eligible customers, including those receiving government assistance, access to all the benefits of Walmart+ at half the regular price. Instead of paying $12.95 per month or $98 per year, qualified members can enjoy the full suite of Walmart+ benefits for just $6.47 per month or $49 per year

Eligibility and Sign-Up Process

To qualify for Walmart+ Assist, customers must be recipients of qualifying government assistance programs, such as:

• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

• Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)

• Medicaid

• Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

• Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

  
  

To sign up for Walmart+ Assist:

1. Visit the Walmart+ Assist page

2. Click on "Start 30-day free trial"

3. Verify your eligibility through ID using your EBT card or other qualifying documentation

4. Once verified, you can begin your discounted membership

   

Benefits of Walmart+ Assist

As a Walmart+ Assist member, you'll have access to a wide range of benefits that can help you save money and time:

• Free Delivery: Get your groceries and other essentials delivered from your local Walmart store at no additional cost on orders of $35 or more

• Free Shipping: Enjoy free next-day and two-day shipping on items from Walmart.com with no order minimum

• Fuel Savings: Save up to 10 cents per gallon at participating fuel stations, including Walmart, Murphy, Exxon, and Mobil locations

• Scan & Go: Use the Walmart app to scan items as you shop in-store and pay using your phone, allowing you to skip the checkout line

• Video Streaming: Access the Paramount+ Essential Plan at no extra cost, offering a wide variety of entertainment options

• Early Access: Get a head start on special promotions and events, including Black Friday deals.

Using EBT at Walmart

In addition to the Walmart+ Assist program, it's important to note that Walmart accepts EBT cards for both in-store and online grocery purchases. This includes options for pickup or delivery, although availability may vary by location.

For online EBT purchases:

1. Add your EBT card as a payment method on your Walmart account

2. Select eligible items for your cart

3. Choose pickup or delivery at checkout

4. Pay with your EBT card for eligible items

Potential Challenges and Solutions

Some EBT cardholders have reported issues adding their cards to their Walmart accounts for online purchases.

If you encounter this problem:

1. Delete your EBT card from your account

2. Empty your online shopping cart

3. Restart the Walmart app

4. Add your EBT card again and start a new shopping cart

If problems persist, contact Walmart customer service for assistance.

Is Walmart+ Assist Right for You?

When considering whether to sign up for Walmart+ Assist, take into account your shopping habits and budget. The program could lead to significant savings and convenience if you:

• Frequently shop at Walmart, either in-store or online

• Often order groceries or other items for delivery

• Regularly purchase gas at participating stations

• Would benefit from free video streaming services

However, it's essential to calculate whether the benefits outweigh the cost based on your typical Walmart spending and usage of the included services.

Impact and Reach of Walmart+ Assist

Walmart+ Assist has the potential to make a significant impact on the lives of many Americans who rely on government assistance. With approximately a quarter of current Walmart+ members receiving SNAP benefits, this program could substantially increase the number of Walmart+ subscribers. By making its membership program more accessible, Walmart is not only expanding its customer base but also providing valuable services to those who may benefit from them the most. This initiative aligns with Walmart's mission to help people save money and live better, particularly for those facing financial challenges.

Comparison to Other Programs

While Walmart+ Assist is a unique offering in the retail space, it's worth comparing it to other programs that cater to EBT cardholders:

Affordable Solutions For Stanislaus County Shoppers

Walmart+ Assist represents a significant step in making shopping more affordable and convenient for EBT cardholders and other recipients of government assistance. By offering a substantial discount on its membership program, Walmart is providing access to valuable services that can help stretch budgets and save time.

For EBT cardholders in Stanislaus County, this program could be particularly beneficial, offering a range of services from grocery delivery to fuel savings. However, it's important to carefully consider your personal shopping habits and needs before committing to any subscription service.

As with any financial decision, it's advisable to review your budget and shopping patterns to determine if Walmart+ Assist aligns with your needs and resources. If you need more information or assistance in deciding whether this program is right for you, consider reaching out to local resources such as 211 Stanislaus for guidance on available programs and benefits in your area.