There is a way to avoid this charge, but it requires spending more than $35. The sudden return of this fee has left many Americans puzzled about Walmart’s motives and how it might affect their grocery budget.
Walmart recently confirmed that a $6.99 basket fee now applies to any order falling below the $35 mark. This fee covers the cost of packing and preparing each grocery order and had been waived during the Covid pandemic to ease financial pressure on households. However, the retail giant has reinstated it for all shoppers, including those who use SNAP benefits.
Who will feel the impact the most? Americans relying on food stamps may be the hardest hit, although Walmart emphasizes that any customer purchasing under $35 will incur the fee. Some wonder if you should simply add a few more items to reach the threshold and avoid the charge altogether.
Walmart’s reinstated basket fee and how it affects every grocery shopper in 2025
Speculation has surfaced suggesting that uncertainty around tariffs introduced by former President Donald Trump prompted Walmart’s decision. Yet company chiefs publicly deny that tariffs played a direct role. They remind customers that the fee had previously existed and was merely suspended to offer relief during unprecedented times.
Meanwhile, around 42 million people rely on SNAP benefits. Did you know that a few states are exploring ways to restrict what can be bought with food stamps? In Indiana, for instance, an executive order signed by Mike Braun bans the use of SNAP for buying soda and candy. On the bright side, shoppers still have the option to dodge the basket fee by spending $35 or more, so it could be a worthwhile strategy if your list is long. Below is a quick overview of scenarios that affect your final bill:
| Scenario | Spending Requirement | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Order over $35 | $35+ | No basket fee |
| Order under $35 | Less than $35 | $6.99 basket fee applies |
| SNAP user with order over $35 | $35+ | No basket fee |
| SNAP user with order under $35 | Less than $35 | $6.99 basket fee applies |
As for addressing any impact from foreign markets, Walmart CEO Doug McMillon points out that two-thirds of Walmart’s items are sourced or produced in the United States. Nevertheless, the company still negotiates with suppliers in places like China and Mexico to keep costs down. Officials have stated their top priority is preserving lower prices for budget-conscious Americans.
Why some states are restricting SNAP purchases and the impact on recipients nationwide
A handful of states argue that limiting junk food purchases with SNAP helps encourage healthier eating habits. Others believe it imposes unfair control over personal choices. Regardless, Walmart’s decision to bring back the basket fee affects all shoppers, so it’s wise to keep track of store policies and plan orders accordingly.
In the end, this new (or renewed) fee is here to stay, at least for now. If your weekly haul comes out to less than $35, you might see an extra $6.99 added at checkout. On the flip side, spending a bit more could eliminate this charge altogether.