What Seafood Stores Accept EBT in 2025? Your Complete Guide

Seafood lovers on a budget often ask, “What seafood stores accept EBT?” With over 44 million Americans using SNAP benefits (USDA) and grocery costs rising—families spend an average of $150 monthly on essentials (Bureau of Labor Statistics)—knowing where your EBT card works can stretch your food dollars. In 2025, many seafood stores accept EBT for eligible items like fish and shrimp. This guide lists top seafood retailers, what you can buy, and tips to maximize your SNAP benefits—keeping your meals nutritious and affordable.

Can Seafood Stores Accept EBT?

Yes, seafood stores can accept EBT if they’re authorized SNAP retailers—typically grocery stores or markets selling unprepared foods. Unlike restaurants restricted by SNAP rules, these stores qualify because seafood like fish, crab, or lobster is considered a staple food. In 2025, with 1 in 8 U.S. households relying on SNAP (USDA), specialty seafood shops and chains offer a tasty way to use benefits—no Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) needed. Let’s explore the options.

Top Seafood Stores That Accept EBT

Here’s a list of seafood retailers where you can use EBT in 2025:

• Whole Foods Market – Nationwide chain with seafood counters.
  Locations: 500+ stores across the U.S.
  Contact: wholefoodsmarket.com or 1-844-936-8255.
  Offerings: Fresh fish, shrimp, crab.
  Best for: Quality seafood—see low-income aid.
  Tip: Check store locator for EBT acceptance.
• Safeway – Grocery with seafood sections.
  Locations: 900+ stores, mainly West and Mid-Atlantic.
  Contact: safeway.com or 1-877-723-3929.
  Focus: Frozen, fresh seafood.
  Perks: Affordable options.
• Trader Joe’s – Specialty store with seafood.
  Locations: 560+ stores nationwide.
  Contact: traderjoes.com or 1-626-599-3700.
  Extras: Frozen fish, shrimp packs.
  Best for: Budget-friendly seafood.
• Publix – Southeastern U.S. seafood provider—see Publix EBT guide.
  Locations: 1,300+ stores, mainly FL, GA, SC.
  Contact: publix.com or 1-800-242-1227.
  Offerings: Fresh, frozen seafood.
  Note: All stores take EBT.
• WinCo Foods – Western U.S. seafood market—see WinCo EBT guide.
  Locations: 130+ stores in 10 states.
  Contact: wincofoods.com or 1-800-824-1706.
  Focus: Bulk seafood, low prices.
• Kroger – Large chain with seafood counters.
  Locations: 2,700+ stores nationwide.
  Contact: kroger.com or 1-800-576-4377.
  Extras: Fresh, frozen options.
• Local Seafood Markets – Independent stores.
  Locations: Vary—check SNAP Retailer Locator.
  Offerings: Specialty fish, local catches.
  Pro Tip: Call to confirm EBT.
• Walmart – Superstore with seafood aisles.
  Locations: 4,600+ U.S. stores.
  Contact: walmart.com or 1-800-925-6278.
  Focus: Affordable shrimp, fish.

Comparison Table: Seafood Stores Accepting EBT

Here’s a quick look at where you can use EBT:

Store	Locations	Seafood Types	EBT Policy	Contact
Whole Foods	500+	Fresh, frozen	All stores	1-844-936-8255
Safeway	900+	Fresh, frozen	All stores	1-877-723-3929
Trader Joe’s	560+	Frozen	All stores	1-626-599-3700
Publix	1,300+	Fresh, frozen	All stores	1-800-242-1227
WinCo	130+	Bulk, fresh	All stores	1-800-824-1706

How to Use EBT at Seafood Stores

Using your EBT card at seafood stores is easy:

1. Shop Eligible Items: Pick SNAP-approved seafood—fresh fish, shrimp, crab, etc.
2. Avoid Non-Eligible: Hot prepared seafood (e.g., cooked shrimp) needs cash.
3. Checkout: Swipe your EBT card, enter your PIN, and pay any balance.
4. Confirm Acceptance: For local markets, call ahead—most chains are guaranteed.

Need clothes too? Check free family clothing.

What You Can and Can’t Buy with EBT at Seafood Stores

Here’s the breakdown:

• Can Buy: Fresh fish (salmon, tilapia), frozen seafood (shrimp, crab legs), canned fish (tuna, sardines), raw shellfish (oysters, clams).
• Can’t Buy: Hot prepared seafood (steamed crab), sushi platters, seasonings, or non-food items (utensils).

For non-EBT needs, explore low-income aid.

Expert Tips to Maximize Your EBT at Seafood Stores

Stretch your SNAP benefits with these strategies:

• Buy Frozen: Cheaper and lasts longer—stock up at Trader Joe’s or Walmart.
• Check Sales: Look for weekly deals at Publix or Kroger—save on fresh catches.
• Use SNAP Locator: Visit fns.usda.gov/snap to find local EBT stores.
• Combine Benefits: Pair with free clothes near me for full support.
• Ask Locally: Small seafood markets may take EBT—call to confirm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Next Steps

Enjoy seafood with your SNAP benefits—find seafood stores that accept EBT near you today! Need more? Explore free clothes near me or bill assistance.