California Lawsuit Challenged Aldi SNAP Delivery Fees
A new class-action lawsuit claims Aldi unfairly charges delivery and service fees to SNAP benefit recipients.
Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Organic Food
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Two California law firms have filed a class-action lawsuit against Aldi, alleging the retailer improperly charges delivery, expedited fulfillment, and convenience fees to SNAP benefit users. The suit argues that these charges place an unfair financial burden on low-income shoppers who rely on federal assistance.
Why it matters
The legal action highlights the ongoing challenges low-income households face when utilizing federal nutrition assistance for digital grocery orders. Because federal law prohibits using SNAP benefits for delivery or service fees, these households must provide separate payment methods, which critics argue undermines the accessibility of food programs.
The lawsuit alleges that Aldi charges a 15% fee on online customer orders. These charges cover delivery and convenience services that cannot be legally paid for using EBT cards.
The players
Aldi
Aldi is a global discount supermarket chain known for its low-cost private-label products and efficient store operations.
James Hawkins APLC
James Hawkins APLC is a California-based law firm that specializes in class-action litigation and consumer protection lawsuits.
The Markham Law Firm
The Markham Law Firm is a legal practice based in California that focuses on representative actions and protecting consumer rights.
The details
James Hawkins APLC and The Markham Law Firm filed the complaint in California Superior Court. The suit contends that Aldi policy mandates customers use credit or debit cards for service fees, which the plaintiffs claim improperly impacts low-income shoppers.
Timeline
Aldi began accepting SNAP payments for online delivery via Instacart in November 2020.
Instacart paid $60 million to settle Federal Trade Commission charges in 2025.
DoorDash expanded SNAP availability to Dollar Tree in June 2026.
Culture Shift
This litigation reflects a growing scrutiny of how digital delivery platforms and retailers structure fees for users on public assistance. It mirrors a broader societal trend toward ensuring that digital food access remains equitable for low-income populations.
Customers in California who use SNAP benefits for Aldi deliveries may face recurring out-of-pocket costs for service and fulfillment fees. This suit could lead to future changes in how grocery retailers in the state process payments for these specific transaction types.
The takeaway
Retailers continue to face legal challenges as the integration of SNAP benefits into digital delivery platforms reveals complex regulatory gaps. Shoppers should carefully review their digital invoices for separate service fee charges that remain ineligible for federal assistance coverage.
Further reading
For more on the current landscape of grocery shopping, visit our Organic Food section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Supermarket News.
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Should retailers be prohibited from charging delivery fees to customers using SNAP benefits?
