How to Use Instacart: A Step-by-Step Guide for Seniors

What Is Instacart and How Does It Work?

Instacart is a grocery delivery service that sends a personal shopper to your local store to pick up the items you want. You place an order through the app or website, a shopper fills your cart, and then delivers the groceries to your door. You get the same products from the same stores you already trust.

The service partners with major grocery chains like Kroger, Aldi, Safeway, Costco, and many local stores. You can shop from more than one store in a single order, which saves you trips and time.

For seniors who have trouble getting to the store — or for adult children helping parents from across the country — Instacart is one of the easiest ways to keep the fridge and pantry stocked. You can read our full review at Instacart for Seniors.

What You Need Before You Start

You need three things to use Instacart:

• A device — a smartphone, tablet, or computer with internet access
• An email address and phone number for your account
• A payment method — a credit card, debit card, or SNAP EBT card at participating stores

That is it. You do not need a membership to place your first order, and you do not need to install anything special beyond the Instacart app or a web browser.

Step 1: Download the App or Visit the Website

If you have a smartphone or tablet, open the App Store (iPhone) or Google Play Store (Android) and search for "Instacart." The app is free to download. Look for the green shopping bag icon.

If you prefer using a computer, go to instacart.com in your web browser. The website has all the same features as the app, and the larger screen can be easier to read if you are new to online shopping.

Both options work the same way. Pick whichever feels more comfortable. You can always switch later — your account works on both.

Step 2: Create Your Account

Once you have the app or website open, creating an account takes about two minutes.

1. Tap "Sign Up" or "Create Account"
2. Enter your email address
3. Create a password you can remember
4. Add your phone number — this is how your shopper contacts you
5. Enter your delivery address so Instacart knows where to bring your groceries

Your phone number is important. Your personal shopper may call or text you if they have a question about an item, like whether a substitute is okay if something is out of stock. You can also set preferences for how you want to be contacted.

Step 3: Choose Your Store

After your account is set up, Instacart shows you the grocery stores available in your area. Enter your zip code if it asks, and you will see a list of stores near you. This might include Kroger, Aldi, Safeway, Costco, Petco, CVS, and local regional chains.

Pick the store you already know. Shopping from a familiar store means you can find the same brands and products you usually buy. You can also browse multiple stores — for example, get pantry items from Costco and fresh produce from Kroger in the same session.

Step 4: Add Items to Your Cart

Now comes the fun part — shopping. Type what you need into the search bar at the top. For example, type "whole milk" or "bananas" and Instacart shows you what is available at your store with current prices.

You can also browse by category. Tap or click sections like "Produce," "Dairy," "Bakery," or "Frozen" to see what is on the shelves. This works just like walking down the aisles, but without leaving your chair.

Here are some tips that make shopping easier:

• Use the search bar for specific items — it is faster than browsing
• Tap on an item to see the full size and price options
• Use the "+" button to add more than one of the same item
• Check the unit price (price per ounce or pound) to compare value
• Add notes for your shopper, like "green bananas please" or "extra ripe avocados"

Your cart stays open as you browse. You can add and remove items anytime before you check out.

Step 5: Choose a Delivery Time

When your cart has everything you need, tap "Go to Checkout." Instacart shows you available delivery windows. These are usually one-hour time slots.

Options typically include:

• Same-day delivery — often within 2 hours if you order early enough
• Scheduled delivery — pick a specific time window today or later this week
• As soon as possible — fastest option if a shopper is available

Same-day delivery windows fill up during busy times like weekends and holidays. If you need groceries for a specific day, order a day ahead to get the time slot you want.

Step 6: Review Your Order and Check Out

Before you pay, Instacart shows you a summary of your order. Take a minute to look it over.

Check these things:

• Are the quantities correct?
• Did you pick a delivery time that works for you?
• Is your delivery address right? Include any apartment or gate codes
• Do you want to allow substitutions if something is out of stock?

Substitutions are a key feature. If the store is out of the exact brand you picked, your shopper can replace it with a similar item. You can approve all substitutions, approve them one by one, or say no substitutions. Most seniors allow substitutions — it is easier than getting a refund later.

Add your payment method. Instacart accepts credit cards, debit cards, and SNAP EBT at participating stores like Kroger and Aldi. You can read more about EBT delivery options in our guide to SNAP EBT grocery delivery for seniors.

Step 7: Add a Tip for Your Shopper

Instacart suggests a tip for your shopper during checkout. The default is usually 5 percent, but you can change it.

Your personal shopper does the physical work — walking the store, picking your produce, carrying bags to your door. Tips make up a large part of their income. A tip of 10 to 15 percent is standard. For a $100 order, that means $10 to $15.

You can adjust the tip after delivery too. If your shopper did a great job — picked good produce, communicated well, arrived on time — you can increase the tip in the app within 24 hours.

Step 8: Track Your Delivery

Once your order is placed, you can watch it move through stages in the app:

1. Order received — Instacart sent your list to a shopper
2. Shopping in progress — your shopper is at the store filling your cart
3. On the way — your shopper has left the store and is heading to you
4. Delivered — your groceries are at your door

The app shows an estimated arrival time and a map with your shopper's location. You can also call or text your shopper through the app if you need to share directions to your apartment or house.

When the shopper arrives, they will knock or ring the doorbell. You can have them leave the bags at the door, or you can open the door and take them inside. If you have trouble carrying bags, ask the shopper to bring them inside — many are happy to place them on your kitchen counter.

How Much Does Instacart Cost?

Understanding the full cost helps you decide if Instacart fits your budget. Here is a breakdown of the fees you can expect.

Cost Type	Amount	Notes
Delivery fee	$3.99 – $7.99 per order	Free on orders over $35 with Instacart+
Service fee	~5% of order total	Waived for Instacart+ members
Instacart+ membership	$99/year or $9.99/month	Free delivery on orders over $35
Tip (recommended)	10-15% of order	Goes directly to your shopper
Express delivery	$2-$5 extra	Optional, for faster delivery

If you order groceries more than twice a month, the Instacart+ membership usually pays for itself. Two orders per month at $5 delivery + $5 service fee = $120 per year — more than the $99 membership. Plus you skip the service fee on every order. See our full cost comparison at grocery delivery subscription comparison.

For seniors on a tight budget, ordering less often with a larger cart helps. One big order every two weeks costs less in fees than small weekly orders. Read more in our guide to grocery delivery for seniors on a fixed income.

Instacart vs Other Grocery Delivery Services

Instacart is not the only option. Here is how it compares to other popular services:

Service	Best For	Delivery Fee	Membership
Instacart	Shopping from multiple stores	$3.99-$7.99	$99/yr (Instacart+)
Shipt	Target and Meijer shoppers	$3.99+	$99/yr (Shipt Plus)
Amazon Fresh	Prime members	Free over $35	$14.99/mo (Prime)
Walmart Grocery	Low prices, pickup option	Free over $35	Walmart+ $98/yr

Instacart's strength is store variety. If you want products from Kroger and Costco in one delivery, Instacart is the only service that does that. If you mostly shop at one store, check our Instacart vs Shipt comparison and our best grocery delivery for seniors guide for more details.

Tips for a Smooth First Order

Your first order should be simple. Here is what experienced users suggest:

• Start small — order 10 to 15 items, not a full month of groceries
• Choose a store you know well so you recognize the products
• Schedule delivery for a time you will be home
• Allow substitutions — it saves a phone call and gets you something close
• Add delivery instructions like "leave at front door" or "apartment 3B, second floor"
• Double-check your phone's volume so you hear the shopper call

If you are helping a parent set up Instacart, sit with them for the first order. Walk through each step together. Once they see how it works, most seniors can order on their own the next time.

Common Problems and How to Fix Them

Things do not always go perfectly. Here are the most common issues and what to do:

Missing or Wrong Items

If something is missing or incorrect, open the app within 7 days. Go to "Your Orders," select the order, and tap "Report an Issue." You can request a refund for the missing item. Instacart usually processes refunds within 3 to 5 business days.

Item Quality Problems

If produce arrives bruised or spoiled, take a photo and report it through the same "Report an Issue" screen. Instacart will refund the item or offer a credit for your next order.

Delivery Is Late

Traffic and store delays happen. The app updates your estimated time if the shopper is running behind. If delivery is more than 30 minutes late with no update, contact Instacart support through the app.

Payment Will Not Go Through

Check that your card has not expired and that the billing address matches what your bank has on file. If using EBT, make sure the store accepts EBT on Instacart. Kroger, Aldi, and a few others participate — check before you shop.

Is Instacart Right for You?

Instacart works well for seniors who:

• Want groceries from stores they already know
• Have trouble driving or carrying heavy bags
• Live far from their preferred grocery store
• Want delivery the same day they order
• Receive help from family members who can place orders remotely

If you prefer not to use an app, family members can place orders for you from their own account using your address. You can also explore other options in our guide to grocery delivery for homebound seniors.

Your Next Steps

Ready to place your first Instacart order? Here is your checklist:

• Download the Instacart app or visit instacart.com
• Create an account with your email and phone number
• Enter your delivery address
• Add a payment method (credit card, debit card, or EBT)
• Pick a store you know and add 10 to 15 items to your cart
• Choose a delivery time when you will be home
• Allow substitutions and add a tip for your shopper
• Place the order and watch the tracking in the app

If you need help getting started, call the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 to find local services that can help seniors with technology and grocery access. You can also ask a family member to walk through the first order with you.

Want to compare Instacart with other services first? Read our full Instacart for Seniors review or compare it with Shipt and Amazon Fresh to find the best fit for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Instacart easy for seniors to use?

Yes, Instacart is designed to be simple. You download the app, search for your store, add items to your cart, and choose a delivery time. The interface uses large buttons and clear labels. If you prefer, you can also order through the Instacart website on a computer instead of a phone.

How much does Instacart cost?

Instacart charges a delivery fee of $3.99 to $7.99 per order, plus a service fee of about 5 percent of your total. Orders over $35 often qualify for free delivery. An Instacart+ membership costs $99 per year and includes free delivery on orders over $35 with no service fee.

Do I need a smartphone to use Instacart?

No, you can use Instacart on a computer or tablet through the website at instacart.com. The website works the same way as the phone app. If you do have a smartphone, the app gives you the same features with a slightly simpler layout.

Can I use my SNAP EBT card on Instacart?

Yes, Instacart accepts SNAP EBT benefits at participating stores including Aldi, Kroger, and Walmart. You add your EBT card as a payment method during checkout. EBT covers eligible food items. You pay delivery fees and tips separately with a credit or debit card.

What if something is wrong with my Instacart order?

If an item is missing, damaged, or wrong, open the Instacart app within 7 days, go to Your Orders, select the order, and tap Report an Issue. You can request a refund or a redelivery. Instacart usually processes refunds within 3 to 5 business days.