DoorDash has announced a new partnership with Kroger that enables Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients to have groceries delivered from nearly 2,700 Kroger-owned stores across the United States. This initiative allows users to link their Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards directly to their DoorDash accounts to pay for eligible items online.
Expanding Access to Food Assistance
The program covers popular Kroger banners, including Fred Meyer, Harris Teeter, and Ralphs, extending access to millions of households. Mike Goldblatt, Vice President of Enterprise Partnerships at DoorDash, stated, “Access to affordable food is fundamental. This collaboration with Kroger marks an important step forward for SNAP access nationwide. Together, we’re helping millions of consumers shop more conveniently for the groceries their households rely on every day.”
Eligible SNAP purchases include fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy products, frozen foods, and other essentials approved under federal guidelines. However, SNAP benefits cannot be used for alcohol, prepared hot foods, or non-food household items.
How the Service Works
At checkout, the system automatically applies SNAP-eligible funds to qualifying items. Any remaining balance can be paid using another payment method. Standard fees such as service charges, taxes, and optional tips are not covered by SNAP benefits. Customers can choose to tip delivery workers, but tips must be paid out of pocket.
To promote the launch, DoorDash is offering $0 delivery fees on the first order from the Kroger family of brands when customers pay with an EBT card, for a limited time. Users can also adjust the SNAP amount applied to the order.
Mixed Reactions on Social Media
Social media users have expressed mixed reactions. Some noted that Kroger already offers its own direct-to-consumer delivery service accepting SNAP EBT, with fees starting at $6.95, while Instacart delivery is available for $9.95. One user commented, “Kroger delivers, what does DoorDash have to do with it?” Another added, “I prefer Kroger's app for delivery, prices aren't marked up like DoorDash and no surprise fees.”
Others raised concerns about tipping. One person wrote, “Yay, more opportunities for Door Dashers to not get tipped.” Another said, “The Dashers don’t make squat now with gas over $4 gallon, and to add a non-tipping EBT card in the mix is a disaster.” However, supporters argued that many SNAP recipients work or are disabled, and some do tip. One user applauded the partnership, stating, “What a wild concept that someone who needs a little assistance may live in a food desert, and may not have the privilege of a reliable vehicle to gather groceries for their family. Be grateful if you have never experienced this. It takes nothing to scroll on, or to have empathy for other humans.”
