Why EBT Not Working on Walmart App 2024? + Fixes


Why EBT Not Working on Walmart App 2024? + Fixes

The shortcoming to make the most of Digital Profit Switch (EBT) funds inside the Walmart software, particularly skilled within the 12 months 2024, represents a disruption in entry to important assets for people and households counting on these advantages. This difficulty prevents customers from buying groceries and different eligible gadgets via the comfort of on-line ordering and pickup or supply providers supplied by Walmart.

The performance of EBT funds inside cell functions like Walmart’s is essential for making certain equitable entry to meals and assets, notably for weak populations. Enabling on-line EBT transactions expands buying choices, reduces potential stigma related to in-store use, and gives comfort for people with restricted mobility or transportation. Traditionally, the combination of EBT with on-line platforms was accelerated by public well being considerations, demonstrating a dedication to offering accessible providers throughout difficult instances. Any disruption on this service has a big affect on beneficiaries.

Understanding the potential causes of this difficulty, together with technical glitches, system updates, or coverage adjustments, is crucial. Moreover, analyzing obtainable troubleshooting steps, different cost strategies, and channels for in search of help may help affected people navigate these challenges. This additionally necessitates an in depth have a look at Walmart’s official statements, EBT supplier communications, and obtainable assist assets to offer knowledgeable steering and potential options.

1. Technical Difficulties

Technical difficulties signify a big issue contributing to situations the place EBT will not be functioning appropriately on the Walmart software throughout 2024. These points embody a spread of issues that disrupt the connection between the person, the appliance, the Walmart servers, and the EBT cost processing system.

  • Server Downtime

    Server downtime refers to intervals when the Walmart software servers, accountable for processing transactions and managing person information, are briefly unavailable. This may happen as a consequence of deliberate upkeep, surprising outages, or excessive site visitors quantity. When servers are down, EBT transactions can’t be processed, leading to customers being unable to finish purchases. For instance, a scheduled server replace coinciding with peak purchasing hours might forestall quite a few EBT customers from accessing groceries by way of the app.

  • Software Bugs and Glitches

    Software program functions are inclined to bugs and glitches that may intervene with performance. Inside the Walmart software, these errors may forestall the EBT cost choice from displaying appropriately, trigger transaction failures, or result in incorrect steadiness calculations. An instance is a coding error launched throughout an app replace that disrupts the communication between the app and the EBT cost gateway.

  • Connectivity Points

    Dependable web connectivity is crucial for using the Walmart software, together with EBT funds. Unstable or gradual web connections can disrupt the information switch required for processing transactions. This might manifest as timeouts throughout cost processing or an incapacity to load the EBT cost choice in any respect. For example, people in areas with poor mobile service or unreliable Wi-Fi might persistently expertise issues utilizing EBT on the app.

  • Integration Errors

    The Walmart software integrates with third-party cost processors to deal with EBT transactions. Integration errors happen when there are issues with the communication or compatibility between these methods. This might end in failed transactions, incorrect information being transmitted, or safety vulnerabilities. For instance, a change within the EBT cost processor’s API (Software Programming Interface) will not be correctly applied inside the Walmart app, inflicting EBT funds to fail.

These technical difficulties, individually or together, contribute to situations the place EBT will not be engaged on the Walmart software. Addressing these points requires ongoing monitoring, proactive upkeep, and fast response to reported issues. A multi-faceted strategy involving software program builders, community engineers, and buyer assist representatives is critical to attenuate disruptions and be sure that EBT customers can reliably entry the advantages they depend upon.

2. Fee Processing Errors

Fee processing errors signify a crucial class of points straight contributing to situations of EBT not performing on the Walmart software in 2024. These errors manifest as failures in the course of the transaction authorization or completion phases, stopping EBT customers from efficiently buying eligible gadgets. The underlying causes of such errors are multifaceted, stemming from each the Walmart software and the exterior EBT cost processing infrastructure. For instance, inadequate funds on the EBT card, system upkeep on the EBT processor’s aspect, or incorrect card info entered by the person inside the app can all result in transaction failures. The significance of understanding these errors lies of their direct affect on weak populations reliant on EBT advantages for accessing important groceries. A malfunction within the cost processing system successfully limits their capability to accumulate requirements via a handy and sometimes important on-line channel.

The sensible implications of cost processing errors are vital. Contemplate a situation the place a single father or mother with restricted transportation depends on the Walmart software to order groceries for supply utilizing their EBT card. A cost processing error, maybe triggered by a brief outage on the EBT processor, prevents the transaction from finishing. This case can result in quick meals insecurity, forcing the father or mother to hunt different, doubtlessly much less handy or accessible, technique of acquiring meals. Moreover, repeated situations of cost processing errors can erode belief within the system, deterring EBT customers from using the Walmart software and exacerbating current challenges in accessing important assets. Troubleshooting steps, similar to verifying card balances and making certain correct card info entry, are crucial, however usually inadequate if the error stems from deeper system-level points.

In conclusion, cost processing errors signify a considerable obstacle to the seamless integration of EBT inside the Walmart software. Addressing these errors necessitates a collaborative strategy involving Walmart, EBT cost processors, and related authorities companies. This consists of strong monitoring of transaction success charges, proactive communication with customers concerning potential system upkeep, and the event of clear, accessible troubleshooting assets. The challenges offered by cost processing errors spotlight the necessity for steady enchancment and funding within the infrastructure supporting EBT accessibility, making certain that weak populations can reliably entry important assets via on-line platforms.

3. App Replace Points

The performance of the Walmart software, together with the processing of Digital Profit Switch (EBT) funds, is inherently depending on the profitable implementation of software program updates. Cases the place EBT transactions fail to operate following an software replace straight hyperlink “App Replace Points” to the issue of “ebt not engaged on walmart app 2024.” The introduction of latest code, modifications to current options, or alterations to the appliance’s interface throughout an replace can inadvertently create conflicts with the EBT cost processing system. For instance, an replace designed to enhance person interface might inadvertently alter the way in which EBT card info is captured, resulting in transaction errors.

The causes of such points might be various, starting from coding errors to insufficient testing previous to launch. An inadequately examined replace might introduce new bugs that particularly have an effect on the EBT cost gateway, stopping customers from finishing their purchases. One other instance is a change within the software’s safety protocols supposed to reinforce information safety might inadvertently disrupt the communication channel with the EBT processor. The importance of understanding this connection lies within the implications for EBT customers. A non-functional EBT cost choice following an software replace restricts entry to important assets, notably for weak populations who depend on the Walmart software for buying groceries and different eligible gadgets. Moreover, the shortage of clear communication concerning recognized points and anticipated decision timelines can exacerbate person frustration and mistrust within the system.

Efficient mitigation methods contain rigorous testing of software updates previous to their launch, notably specializing in the EBT cost performance. This testing ought to simulate real-world transaction eventualities and contain a various group of customers to determine potential points earlier than they affect the broader EBT person base. Moreover, clear and clear communication channels are mandatory to tell customers about any recognized points following an replace and to offer estimated decision instances. Implementing a rollback mechanism to revert to a earlier model of the appliance in case of crucial errors is essential to attenuate disruption and be sure that EBT customers can proceed to entry their advantages with out interruption. The proactive administration of app replace points straight contributes to the reliability and accessibility of EBT advantages via the Walmart software.

4. EBT System Outages

Digital Profit Switch (EBT) system outages signify a direct explanation for EBT cost failures on the Walmart software in 2024. These outages, occurring on the state or federal stage inside the EBT processing community, disrupt the authorization and settlement of transactions, regardless of the performance of the Walmart software itself. An EBT system outage renders the complete community inaccessible, stopping all retailers, together with Walmart, from processing EBT funds, each in-store and on-line. A widespread system failure affecting a big state’s EBT community, for instance, would instantly preclude residents of that state from using EBT on the Walmart software, regardless of their particular person card standing or web connectivity. Understanding the function of system-level outages is essential as a result of it highlights the dependence of application-based EBT entry on the soundness of exterior infrastructure.

The implications of EBT system outages prolong past mere inconvenience. For households reliant on EBT advantages for sustenance, an outage interprets on to an incapacity to buy meals and different important gadgets. The Walmart software, supposed as a handy avenue for accessing these advantages, turns into successfully ineffective throughout such intervals. Moreover, extended outages can generate nervousness and uncertainty amongst EBT recipients, notably these with restricted assets or entry to different meals sources. Cases the place outages have coincided with peak purchasing intervals, similar to holidays or the start of the month when advantages are usually disbursed, have resulted in widespread disruption and hardship. Mitigation methods usually contain speaking the outage to customers, offering estimated restoration instances, and providing different cost choices the place obtainable; nevertheless, these measures are sometimes inadequate to totally compensate for the lack of EBT entry.

In conclusion, EBT system outages represent a significant factor of the issue, ‘ebt not engaged on walmart app 2024.’ These failures on the community stage override any performance inside the software itself, underscoring the necessity for strong and dependable EBT infrastructure. Addressing this difficulty necessitates funding in system redundancy, proactive monitoring, and efficient communication protocols to attenuate the affect of outages on weak populations. Whereas Walmart can implement inner troubleshooting and assist measures, the final word answer lies in making certain the soundness and accessibility of the broader EBT system upon which its application-based transactions rely.

5. Geographic Restrictions

Geographic restrictions signify a big, but typically neglected, contributing issue to the problem of EBT not performing on the Walmart software throughout 2024. These restrictions, applied by Walmart or mandated by state or federal laws, restrict the supply of on-line EBT transactions to particular geographic areas. Consequently, customers residing outdoors of those designated zones are unable to make the most of their EBT advantages via the appliance, regardless of the appliance in any other case functioning appropriately. The trigger stems from quite a lot of components, together with various state legal guidelines concerning on-line EBT acceptance, logistical limitations regarding supply providers to sure areas, or strategic enterprise choices by Walmart to prioritize on-line EBT acceptance in particular markets. Which means that a person with a legitimate EBT card and a functioning Walmart software should still be unable to finish a transaction merely due to their residential location.

The significance of geographic restrictions as a part of the general drawback lies of their disproportionate affect on people residing in rural or underserved areas. These are sometimes the identical communities that already face challenges accessing recent and inexpensive meals. Contemplate a situation the place a household residing in a rural county depends on EBT advantages and lacks dependable transportation to succeed in a Walmart retailer. The provision of on-line EBT acceptance via the Walmart software can be a crucial useful resource for them. Nonetheless, if their county falls outdoors the designated service space, they’re successfully excluded from using this feature. The sensible significance of this understanding is that it highlights the necessity for elevated advocacy and coverage adjustments to develop on-line EBT acceptance to a broader vary of geographic areas. This consists of lobbying state governments to enact laws selling on-line EBT entry and inspiring retailers like Walmart to increase their service areas to underserved communities.

In conclusion, geographic restrictions contribute considerably to the issue of EBT not engaged on the Walmart software, notably affecting weak populations in rural areas. Addressing this difficulty requires a multi-faceted strategy involving legislative motion, retailer initiatives, and group advocacy. By acknowledging and actively working to take away these geographic obstacles, stakeholders can promote extra equitable entry to important meals assets and improve the effectiveness of the EBT program for all eligible recipients.

6. Eligibility Verification Issues

Eligibility verification issues represent an important issue underlying situations of EBT not performing on the Walmart software in 2024. The shortcoming to efficiently verify a person’s energetic EBT enrollment straight impedes the processing of on-line transactions, stopping entry to advantages. This failure stems from a posh interaction of system integrations and information accuracy, leading to frustration and hardship for beneficiaries.

  • Inaccurate EBT Card Data

    Typographical errors or outdated card particulars entered by the person in the course of the setup course of inside the Walmart software signify a standard explanation for verification failure. For instance, an incorrect card quantity, expiration date, or Card Verification Worth (CVV) will forestall the system from validating the cardboard with the EBT processor. The implications of such errors are quick, leading to transaction rejection and the lack to buy eligible gadgets.

  • Information Synchronization Points

    Discrepancies between the data saved inside the Walmart software and the information maintained by the state EBT company can set off verification failures. These discrepancies might come up from delays in updating EBT enrollment standing following recertification or adjustments in family circumstances. The delay might result in a state of affairs the place a person, legitimately entitled to advantages, is unable to entry them via the Walmart software as a consequence of outdated info.

  • System Integration Errors

    Technical difficulties within the communication channels between the Walmart software and the third-party EBT cost processor signify one other potential supply of eligibility verification issues. Integration errors might happen as a consequence of API (Software Programming Interface) adjustments, community connectivity points, or software program bugs. When the appliance can’t efficiently talk with the EBT processor to confirm eligibility, transactions might be rejected.

  • Expired EBT Card

    Probably the most direct explanation for eligibility failure is an expired EBT card. The Walmart software is unable to course of any transaction when an eligible particular person try to make use of their EBT advantages. This result in transaction rejection and the person can’t make purchases of eligible gadgets.

The interconnectedness of those components underscores the complexity of making certain seamless EBT entry via on-line platforms. Efficiently addressing the issue of EBT not engaged on the Walmart software in 2024 necessitates proactive measures to attenuate information entry errors, enhance information synchronization processes, and strengthen system integration protocols. Furthermore, clear and accessible communication channels are essential to help customers in resolving eligibility verification issues and accessing the advantages to which they’re entitled.

7. Card Data Accuracy

The accuracy of card info entered into the Walmart software straight influences the performance of EBT funds, thus, card info accuracy serves as a crucial consider addressing situations of EBT not engaged on walmart app 2024. The EBT cost course of depends on the proper transmission of card particulars, together with the cardboard quantity, expiration date, and doubtlessly the Card Verification Worth (CVV), to authorize transactions. Inaccurate info, similar to a transposed digit within the card quantity or an incorrect expiration date, will forestall the system from validating the EBT card, leading to transaction failure. For instance, a person unintentionally mistyping the expiration 12 months when including their EBT card to the appliance will persistently encounter cost errors, successfully blocking their entry to on-line grocery purchases.

The significance of exact card info stems from safety protocols designed to guard in opposition to fraudulent transactions. Fee methods make use of rigorous verification checks to make sure the legitimacy of every transaction. If the cardboard particulars supplied don’t exactly match the data on file with the EBT issuing company, the transaction is flagged as doubtlessly fraudulent and subsequently rejected. This safety mechanism, whereas important for stopping misuse of advantages, can inadvertently penalize customers who make easy information entry errors. Moreover, some customers might not totally perceive the importance of offering correct info or might wrestle with the appliance’s interface, growing the probability of errors. For example, aged customers or these with restricted digital literacy might discover it difficult to precisely enter card particulars, resulting in repeated cost failures.

In conclusion, making certain card info accuracy represents a basic step in resolving the problem of EBT not engaged on the Walmart software. Selling person consciousness concerning the significance of exact information entry and simplifying the cardboard info enter course of can mitigate this drawback. Implementing options similar to card scanning or automated information validation might additional scale back errors and improve the accessibility of on-line EBT funds. Finally, addressing challenges associated to card info accuracy contributes to a extra dependable and user-friendly expertise for EBT beneficiaries using the Walmart software.

8. Walmart Coverage Adjustments

Walmart coverage adjustments, notably these affecting cost strategies, on-line buying, or supply providers, signify a direct causal consider situations of EBT not performing on the Walmart software throughout 2024. Changes to Walmart’s inner methods, similar to revisions to on-line cost protocols or alterations in supply service eligibility necessities, can inadvertently disrupt the combination of EBT as a cost choice. For instance, a coverage change mandating a minimal order worth for all on-line transactions, together with these utilizing EBT, would forestall beneficiaries with smaller purchases from using the service, successfully rendering EBT “not working” for that section of customers. The implementation of latest safety measures, supposed to fight fraud, might additionally unintentionally set off false positives for professional EBT transactions, leading to cost failures. The importance of understanding this connection lies in recognizing that technical malfunctions should not the only explanation for the problem, and that seemingly unrelated coverage choices can have a considerable affect on EBT accessibility.

The sensible implications of Walmart coverage adjustments are multifaceted. If Walmart decides to limit EBT acceptance to particular geographic areas or product classes, beneficiaries residing outdoors these zones or in search of to buy excluded gadgets can be unable to finish their transactions. A coverage shift eliminating free supply for EBT purchases might discourage beneficiaries with restricted transportation choices from using the web service, forcing them to buy in-store. These coverage adjustments should not all the time explicitly communicated to EBT customers, resulting in confusion and frustration when the appliance fails to operate as anticipated. Moreover, coverage adjustments impacting the third-party cost processors utilized by Walmart can not directly have an effect on EBT transactions. A change in processors or a modification to the processing settlement might introduce compatibility points, leading to cost failures for EBT customers.

In conclusion, Walmart coverage adjustments are a big, and sometimes neglected, part of the issue. Addressing situations of EBT not engaged on the Walmart software requires a complete understanding of each technical components and coverage choices. Transparency in speaking coverage adjustments to EBT customers and cautious consideration of the potential affect on weak populations are essential steps in mitigating these points. Moreover, ongoing monitoring of EBT transaction success charges following coverage adjustments may help determine and tackle unintended penalties, making certain continued accessibility of on-line grocery providers for all eligible beneficiaries.

9. Buyer Help Entry

Efficient buyer assist entry represents an important ingredient in mitigating the destructive penalties related to situations of EBT not performing on the Walmart software throughout 2024. When EBT funds fail, affected people require dependable and available channels for reporting the problem, in search of help, and acquiring decision. Insufficient buyer assist entry amplifies person frustration, prolongs the interval of inaccessibility to important advantages, and erodes belief within the system’s general reliability. For instance, restricted name heart hours, excessively lengthy wait instances, or poorly skilled assist workers can considerably hinder a person’s capability to resolve an EBT-related drawback, exacerbating the challenges related to accessing mandatory groceries.

The significance of sturdy buyer assist lies in its function as a crucial bridge between customers and the advanced methods governing EBT funds. Buyer assist representatives can present worthwhile steering in troubleshooting frequent points, similar to incorrect card info or connectivity issues. They will additionally escalate extra advanced technical points to the suitable inner groups for investigation and backbone. Furthermore, buyer assist serves as a significant supply of data for customers concerning coverage adjustments, system outages, or different components that will affect EBT performance. Contemplate a situation the place a person’s EBT cost is repeatedly declined as a consequence of a brief system outage. Accessible and informative buyer assist can present well timed updates on the outage standing and provide different options, similar to directing the person to a close-by Walmart retailer the place in-person EBT funds are nonetheless being accepted. With out satisfactory buyer assist, customers are left to navigate these challenges independently, usually with out the mandatory information or assets.

In conclusion, restricted buyer assist entry considerably contributes to the destructive affect of “ebt not engaged on walmart app 2024.” Enhancing the supply, responsiveness, and experience of buyer assist channels is crucial for making certain that EBT beneficiaries can successfully resolve payment-related points and entry the important assets they depend upon. This consists of increasing name heart hours, offering on-line chat assist, and investing in complete coaching for assist workers. By prioritizing buyer assist entry, stakeholders can mitigate the challenges related to EBT cost failures and promote a extra equitable and dependable system for all eligible recipients.

Ceaselessly Requested Questions

This part addresses frequent inquiries concerning the performance of Digital Profit Switch (EBT) funds inside the Walmart software in the course of the 12 months 2024. It goals to offer readability on potential causes, troubleshooting steps, and different options for affected people.

Query 1: Why is EBT not engaged on the Walmart app?

A number of components can contribute to EBT cost failures on the Walmart software. These embody technical points with the appliance or EBT processing methods, inaccurate card info, geographic restrictions, or adjustments to Walmart’s insurance policies concerning on-line EBT acceptance. System outages impacting EBT processing on the state or federal stage may also forestall transactions from finishing.

Query 2: How can I decide if the problem is with the Walmart app or my EBT card?

First, confirm the EBT card steadiness and expiration date. Try to make use of the EBT card at a bodily Walmart retailer. If the cardboard works in-store however not on the app, the problem possible lies inside the software or its connection to the EBT processing system. Contacting the EBT customer support or Walmart’s buyer assist can present additional clarification.

Query 3: What steps ought to I take to troubleshoot EBT cost failures on the Walmart app?

Affirm a secure web connection. Make sure the EBT card info entered within the software is correct and up-to-date. Attempt logging out and again into the Walmart software. Replace the appliance to the newest model. If the issue persists, contact Walmart’s buyer assist for help.

Query 4: Are there geographic restrictions on utilizing EBT with the Walmart app?

Sure, on-line EBT acceptance via the Walmart software could also be restricted to particular geographic areas, relying on state laws and Walmart’s service insurance policies. Affirm that the residential tackle related to the EBT account falls inside the designated service zone.

Query 5: Does Walmart provide different cost strategies if EBT will not be engaged on the app?

If EBT will not be functioning, Walmart might provide different cost choices, similar to bank cards, debit playing cards, or Walmart present playing cards, for finishing the acquisition. Nonetheless, these choices will not be accessible to all EBT customers, notably these relying solely on EBT advantages.

Query 6: The place can I discover updates on EBT system outages or points affecting the Walmart app?

Test Walmart’s official web site or social media channels for bulletins concerning system outages or application-related points. Contacting Walmart’s buyer assist can present real-time updates and estimated decision instances. Moreover, state EBT companies might publish info on system-wide outages affecting EBT funds.

Troubleshooting EBT cost points on the Walmart software requires a scientific strategy, involving verification of card info, evaluation of technical components, and consciousness of potential restrictions or system-level outages. Contacting buyer assist stays essentially the most direct path to resolving advanced points.

This concludes the FAQs part. Please seek advice from the following segments of this doc for extra detailed info.

Navigating EBT Inaccessibility on Walmart App (2024)

This part supplies a sequence of actionable steps for people encountering difficulties using Digital Profit Switch (EBT) inside the Walmart software throughout 2024. These suggestions are designed to help customers in troubleshooting frequent points and accessing obtainable assets.

Tip 1: Confirm EBT Card Data. Make sure the accuracy of all EBT card particulars entered inside the Walmart software. This consists of the cardboard quantity, expiration date, and any related safety codes. Incorrect info is a main explanation for transaction failures. For instance, confirming that the expiration date matches the bodily card can resolve quick cost rejections.

Tip 2: Assess Web Connectivity. A secure and dependable web connection is crucial for processing EBT funds on-line. Check the connection velocity and stability earlier than trying a transaction. Intermittent or weak connections can disrupt the information switch required for authorization, resulting in cost errors. Contemplate switching to a distinct community or contacting the web service supplier if persistent connectivity points are noticed.

Tip 3: Test for Software Updates. Often replace the Walmart software to the newest model obtainable on the app retailer. Updates usually embody bug fixes and efficiency enhancements that may resolve compatibility points with the EBT cost system. Outdated software variations might lack crucial updates mandatory for seamless EBT processing.

Tip 4: Evaluate Geographic Restrictions. Affirm that the supply tackle falls inside the geographic space the place Walmart helps on-line EBT funds. Restrictions might apply based mostly on state laws or Walmart’s service insurance policies. Inquiries might be directed to Walmart’s customer support or the related state EBT company to determine service space boundaries.

Tip 5: Contact Walmart Buyer Help. If troubleshooting steps fail to resolve the problem, contact Walmart’s buyer assist for devoted help. Present detailed details about the issue encountered, together with the error message displayed and the steps already taken. Buyer assist can escalate advanced points and supply updates on recognized system outages or application-related issues.

Tip 6: Discover Various Fee Strategies. Whereas EBT is the first cost methodology, take into account having an alternate cost choice obtainable, similar to a debit or bank card, in case of persistent EBT cost failures. This may guarantee entry to important groceries even when technical difficulties come up with the EBT system.

Tip 7: Monitor for System Outages. Concentrate on potential EBT system outages that will have an effect on the power to course of funds. Test official Walmart communication channels and state EBT company web sites for bulletins concerning system-wide disruptions. Delays in EBT cost processing are sometimes attributable to points past the person’s management.

Adhering to those suggestions enhances the probability of efficiently navigating EBT cost challenges on the Walmart software, making certain continued entry to important assets.

The data supplied on this part serves as a information for navigating potential points. Seek the advice of official assets and buyer assist channels for definitive options.

Conclusion

The problem of “ebt not engaged on walmart app 2024” constitutes a multifaceted drawback, encompassing technical malfunctions, coverage limitations, and infrastructure dependencies. The previous exploration has elucidated the varied components that contribute to this disruption, together with software errors, cost processing failures, geographic restrictions, and EBT system outages. Every ingredient underscores the challenges confronted by people counting on this service to entry important assets. Resolving this difficulty necessitates a complete and collaborative strategy involving Walmart, EBT suppliers, and related authorities companies.

Continued monitoring, proactive upkeep, and clear communication are essential for making certain the reliability and accessibility of EBT advantages via on-line platforms. Funding in system infrastructure and a dedication to addressing the underlying causes of EBT cost failures are important to mitigate the affect on weak populations. Moreover, ongoing analysis of insurance policies and practices impacting EBT entry is warranted to make sure equitable distribution of assets and efficient utilization of this important program.