Walmart has reintroduced a fee that affects certain online shoppers, especially those using government aid programs. The change has led to strong reactions from customers, many of whom feel the move is unfair during tough economic times.
Let’s break down what this means, who it affects, and what Walmart is saying.
What Is the Basket Fee?
The basket fee is a charge added to Walmart online or app orders under $35. Normally, Walmart+ members, who pay $98 a year, must also meet this $35 minimum to avoid extra fees, which usually range between $7.95 to $9.95.
However, since the COVID-19 pandemic, one group—Walmart+ Assist members—was exempt from this fee.
Walmart+ Assist is a discounted membership (costing $49 annually) for customers who receive government benefits through programs like SNAP, Medicaid, and Federal Public Housing and use EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) cards.
Fee Returns for Walmart+ Assist Users
As of April, Walmart has reinstated the basket fee for Walmart+ Assist users. The new fee is $6.99 for orders under $35, as confirmed by Reuters. This means that shoppers using EBT cards now have to spend at least $35 online or pay the added charge.
Customer Reactions: Mixed and Emotional
The decision has sparked anger on social media, especially among long-time Walmart shoppers. Many feel this move targets low-income families who are already struggling with rising prices.
One user named Angela wrote, “Walmart is trash. Please be aware of this policy,” calling the change unfair to EBT users. Others echoed her frustration, with comments like, “Shame on you Walmart,” and “They’re getting $7 a day to survive, now they’re being charged more?”
Is This Linked to Tariffs?
Some people initially believed that the return of this fee was connected to tariffs recently announced by the Trump administration, which raised import taxes on products from other countries like China.
However, Walmart denied this, saying the basket fee is unrelated to tariffs. A spokesperson explained it’s a standard cost that other retailers also charge. For example, Target charges $5.99 for orders under $35 if not paid using their store credit card.
Internal Memo Confirms Change
A memo sent to Walmart’s customer service team, seen by Yahoo Finance, explained that the fee had returned and should be applied to all EBT users placing small online orders.
It instructed staff to tell customers: “This is the correct fee for orders under $35.”
Walmart’s Low-Price Summer Deals Still Active
Even with the basket fee back, Walmart continues offering low-priced summer products. A 40-ounce tumbler that resembles a Stanley cup is on sale for just $11, and a garden tool perfect for summer parties is available for $15.99.
Walmart’s return of the $6.99 basket fee for Walmart+ Assist members has upset many customers who depend on the service for affordable online grocery shopping. While the company says the fee is standard and unrelated to trade policies, it comes at a time when many families are already stretched thin. Still, Walmart continues to offer discounts on summer goods, aiming to keep some prices low. As customers adjust to this policy change, it’s clear that even small fees can make a big difference for those on tight budgets.