Does Aldi Take Credit Cards, Check, Debit, EBT, or WIC?

In the past, Aldi was very particular about what forms of payment it accepted. This may have been due, in part, to Aldi’s German origins, since Germans use cash more than many other groups do.

Times though, have changed, and Aldi has steadily expanded the forms of payment it takes in it’s American stores.

Still, people may still wonder, especially if they haven’t been to Aldi in a while. It’s a given that Aldi takes cash, but what about other options?

Here’s a quick roundup.

Does Aldi Take Credit Cards?

Credit cards are one of the most popular forms of payment in the United States, both for their ease of use and for their benefits, including fraud protection. For a long time, Aldi did not take credit cards, but in 2016 Aldi changed course. Now the grocer takes Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover.

Does Aldi Take Contactless Pay?

Contactless pay, or using a smartphone or other capable device, has become popular in recent years. As of 2017, Aldi now accepts Contactless Pay through Apple Pay and Google Pay.

Does Aldi Take Checks or Debit Cards?

Checks are an old method of payment. In recent years, fewer and fewer retailers have accepted checks, and for a simple reason: if the checking account doesn’t have enough money, the check bounces. If the check bounces, the retailer doesn’t get its money, and most retailers don’t want the hassle of trying to go after the buyer.

As of now, Aldi does not take checks of any type. You can, however, use a debit card at Aldi.

Does Aldi Take EBT?

EBT is short for Electronic Benefits Transfer, a program that distributes money to people in need through a payment card, similar to a debit card. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), or what was once known as food stamps, distributes money to people in need through the EBT program.

In-stores, Aldi does take EBT. Keep in mind, though, that EBT does place restrictions on what can be purchased under the program, notably alcohol.

However, Instacart — which runs both Aldi delivery and curbside pickup — does not accept EBT. This is a legal issue, as the government only recently started piloting online EBT purchases. If you want to use EBT at Aldi, you’ll currently need to go into the store.

Does Aldi Take WIC?

WIC is short for Women, Infants, and Children, a program that provides support for needy mothers. This program includes a number of benefits, including some food benefits as part of the SNAP program.

Aldi does not take WIC. Aldi claims it does not qualify, due to its large volume of house brands rather than national brands. However, this is a controversial position, as WIC guidelines vary from state to state and a number of house brands from other grocers are allowed.