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\u2019s motives and how it might affect their grocery budget.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Speculation has surfaced suggesting that uncertainty around tariffs introduced by former President Donald Trump prompted Walmart\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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:<\/p>\n\n\n\n