EBT cards are a great way for those with limited income to get access to healthy food choices. These cards provide assistance to low-income households to purchase food from authorized retailers. However, many people are unaware of what they can buy with their EBT cards. In this article, we will guide you through what you can use your EBT card for, and how you can make healthy food choices with it.
The Basics of EBT Cards
EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) cards are issued by the state and are used to redeem Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. The benefits are transferred to your account electronically each month, which can be used to purchase certain food items.
What Foods Can You Buy with an EBT Card?
With an EBT card, you can purchase most food items, except for prepared foods, vitamins, or supplements. Here is a list of some of the food items that you can buy with your EBT card:
- Bread and cereals
- Fruits and vegetables
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Dairy products
- Seeds and plants that produce food for consumption
What You Cannot Buy with an EBT Card
Although you can buy most food items with your EBT card, there are certain items that you cannot buy with it. Here are some of the items that are not eligible for purchase with your EBT card:
- Alcoholic beverages
- Tobacco products
- Prepared foods, such as hot food items from a deli or restaurant
- Non-food items, such as soap, cleaning supplies, or toiletries
- Vitamins or supplements
How to Make Healthy Food Choices with Your EBT Card
It is possible to make healthy food choices with your EBT card, even if you are on a tight budget. Here are some tips to help you:
Shop Seasonally
Buy seasonal fruits and vegetables as they are usually less expensive than out-of-season produce. You can also shop at farmer’s markets, which tend to have fresher produce at lower prices.
Buy Frozen Vegetables and Fruits
Frozen vegetables and fruits are a good alternative to fresh produce when they are out of season or not readily available. They are also less expensive and can be stored in your freezer for a longer time.
Buy Inexpensive Protein Sources
Proteins are an essential part of a healthy diet, but they can be expensive. You can opt for inexpensive protein sources, such as eggs, canned tuna, beans, chickpeas, and lentils.
Shop for Whole Grains
Choose whole grains, such as brown rice, whole wheat bread, and pasta, instead of refined grains. Whole grains are more nutritious, and they can help you feel fuller for longer periods.
Choose Low-Fat Dairy Products
Low-fat dairy products, such as milk, cheese, and yogurt, are good sources of calcium and protein. They are also lower in fat and calories than full-fat dairy products.
Where Can You Use Your EBT Card?
You can use your EBT card at most grocery stores, supermarkets, and farmers’ markets that sell eligible food items. You can also use it to purchase food online from select retailers, such as Amazon and Walmart.
How to Find Participating Retailers
You can find participating retailers in your area by contacting your state’s EBT customer service or by visiting the USDA’s SNAP Retail Locator website.
Conclusion
EBT cards can be a valuable resource for those who are on a limited income and looking to make healthy food choices. By following our simple tips, you can make the most of your EBT card and purchase healthy and nutritious food items.
FAQs
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What can I buy with my EBT card?
You can purchase most food items, such as bread and cereals, fruits and vegetables, meat, poultry, and fish, and dairy products. However, you cannot buy non-food items, such as soap, cleaning supplies, or vitamins, and supplements.
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Can I use my EBT card to buy prepared food?
No, you cannot use your EBT card to buy prepared food items, such as hot food items from a deli or restaurant.
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Where can I use my EBT card?
You can use your EBT card at most grocery stores, supermarkets, and farmers’ markets that sell eligible food items. You can also use it to purchase food online from select retailers, such as Amazon and Walmart.
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How do I find retailers that accept EBT?
You can find participating retailers in your area by contacting your state’s EBT customer service or by visiting the USDA’s SNAP Retail Locator website.
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Can I use my EBT card to buy organic food?
Yes, you can use your EBT card to buy organic food items as long as they are eligible food items, such as fruits, vegetables, and dairy products.
References:
1. USDA. (2021). Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Retrieved September 7, 2021, from https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program-snap.
2. Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. (2021). Policy Basics: The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Retrieved September 7, 2021, from https://www.cbpp.org/research/food-assistance/policy-basics-the-supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program-snap.