If you rely on Walmart’s online grocery service, there’s a good chance you’ve noticed something new at checkout. Or rather—something old that’s returned.

Walmart has officially reinstated its controversial $6.99 “basket fee” for smaller orders, and it’s already causing concern among cost-conscious shoppers across the country.

Here’s what you need to know—and how to avoid paying more than you have to.



The basket fee is a $6.99 charge applied to any online grocery order under $35.

This fee covers the cost of preparing and packing smaller orders. Walmart says it takes just as much effort to prepare a smaller order as it does a bigger one, so the fee helps offset that.

The policy isn’t brand-new. Walmart waived the fee during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly for shoppers using SNAP (EBT) benefits.

But as of last month, it’s back—for everyone, regardless of payment method.


There’s been speculation that the return of the fee is linked to economic uncertainty or tariffs.

But Walmart has directly denied this. A spokesperson confirmed to Mashable that the fees and tariffs are not related.

The company says this decision is about sustainability and costs.

As demand for faster delivery and better service increases, Walmart is trying to balance customer expectations with operating costs.



Also read: Free wash? See the “humiliating” punishment Walmart enforces on shoplifters

Every shopper using Walmart’s online grocery service—including those paying with EBT/SNAP.

This is a significant change for over 42 million Americans who rely on SNAP.

During the pandemic, Walmart waived the basket fee for EBT users. But now, everyone pays if their order is under $35.



For many SNAP recipients, Walmart’s online grocery platform has been a lifeline—especially for seniors and families without easy access to a store.

With this change, SNAP users will need to be more strategic.

Some states, such as Indiana, have also introduced new rules restricting what SNAP funds can buy (e.g., banning purchases of soda and candy).

Together, these changes could have a major impact on how lower-income households shop.



CEO Doug McMillon recently addressed shareholders, saying the company is focused on keeping prices low, even amid supply chain challenges.

He also revealed that two-thirds of Walmart’s products are made or built in the US, which helps the company maintain pricing and avoid over-reliance on imports.

Walmart has also been investing in services like next-day delivery, same-day fulfillment, and membership perks—improvements that don’t come cheap.



Also read: Walmart shopper’s overcharge nightmare—avoid this costly mistake!

As online ordering becomes the norm, these fees are increasingly common.

While added fees are never welcome, understanding how and why they’re applied can help you plan better and spend smarter.

If you use Walmart for groceries—especially with SNAP—now is a good time to revisit your online shopping habits.

A few simple changes can help you skip the fee and keep more money in your pocket.

Read next: Would you live in this $8K home? Walmart believes many Americans just might

Have you been caught off guard by Walmart’s basket fee? Do you have any tips for meeting the $35 minimum, or for shopping smarter online? Have you noticed similar policies at other stores? Share your stories and advice in the comments below. Your insight could help fellow readers save.