Julia Anderson
Some felt there was a negative stigma with food stamps in the past. Why? Because you had to whip out paper vouchers that were easily recognizable. Nowadays, those food “stamps” no longer exist, as they’ve been replaced with EBT cards from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) that are pretty discreet.
Receiving an EBT card in the mail can help you breathe a big sigh of relief. It can symbolize nutrition, food, and groceries for your family, thanks to monthly funds. But there are some misconceptions about SNAP EBT cards that could confuse you. That’s why it’s best to gain clarity now before you’re in that checkout line, which is what this guide aims to do.
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The Do’s of Using Your EBT Card
Apply for SNAP.
An EBT card won’t arrive in the mail by chance. You need to apply for SNAP benefits first to receive one, which can be achieved by going here.
SNAP benefits are not awarded to every household. The program is meant for families with financial needs, and you’ll need to prove that you meet specific income requirements to be eligible. Once you get past that first phase of the application process, you’ll need to complete an interview to seal the deal.
Look for your EBT card in the mail.
As mentioned, those old-fashioned food stamps are no longer in circulation. Everything is electronic now, and your EBT card will be delivered via mail.
Once you receive your card, follow the instructions to activate it, get a PIN, etc. You can look to get your EBT card in as little as seven days or one month after applying for SNAP.
Use your SNAP card at approved locations.
When you went shopping in the past, you may have noticed signs on the front doors of stores saying that they accept EBT. Those are the stores where you’ll want to shop and use your EBT card. EBT is usually accepted at:
- Gas stations
- Convenience stores
- Grocery stores
You may be able to use your SNAP EBT card at retailers like CVS, Target, Walgreens, and Walmart. And if you like fresh produce, you may also be able to use your EBT card at participating farmers’ markets.
To play it safe, use this SNAP Retailer Locator. It will show you where EBT is accepted near you.
Buy SNAP-eligible items with your EBT card.
If SNAP funds are all you have, be sure only to fill up your cart with these eligible items:
- Vegetables
- Spices
- Flavor extracts
- Snacks
- Desserts
- Plants or seeds for growing produce
- Rice
- Poultry
- Pasta
- Oils
- Non-alcoholic drinks
- Meat
- Fruits
- Fish
- Fats
- Dairy
- Condiments
- Cereal
- Bread
Check your SNAP balance regularly.
You can do this by calling the number on the back of your EBT card.
The Don’ts of Using Your EBT Card
Avoid items that are not eligible under SNAP.
If you try to purchase any of these items with your SNAP EBT card, you will be rejected:
- Health products
- VitaminsTo
- bacco products
- Supplements
- Prepared foods
- Medication
- Live animals
- Household supplies
- Beauty products
- Cleaning supplies
- Alcohol
Eric Tomasso
