Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card is a state-issued card that is used to pay for groceries and other eligible items. If you are a recipient of food assistance benefits, you may be wondering what you can buy with your EBT card. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about what you can purchase with your EBT card.
What is an EBT card and how does it work?
An EBT card works like a debit card, allowing you to purchase groceries and other eligible items at participating retailers. The card is loaded with food assistance benefits each month, and you can use it to pay for eligible items at the checkout.
The EBT card is issued by the state, and each state has its own set of rules and regulations regarding its use. Some states restrict certain types of foods or items that can be purchased with an EBT card.
What can you purchase with an EBT card?
Eligible food items
You can use your EBT card to purchase most food items, including:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Bread and cereals
- Dairy products
- Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
- Seeds and plants that produce food for the household to eat
Keep in mind that some states may have specific restrictions on certain types of food items. For example, some states do not allow the purchase of hot or prepared foods with an EBT card.
Non-food items
There are certain non-food items that you can purchase with your EBT card, including:
- Toiletries, such as soap and toilet paper
- Over-the-counter medications, such as pain relievers and allergy medication
- Diapers and baby formula
- Cleaning supplies
It’s important to note that some states may have specific rules about what non-food items can be purchased with an EBT card. For example, some states may limit the purchase of non-food items to only those that are necessary for the health and well-being of the household.
What can’t you purchase with an EBT card?
Alcoholic beverages
Alcoholic beverages cannot be purchased with an EBT card. This includes beer, wine, and liquor.
Tobacco products
Tobacco products, including cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco, cannot be purchased with an EBT card.
Pet food and supplies
Pet food and supplies cannot be purchased with an EBT card, even if the household has pets.
Hot or prepared food items
Hot or prepared food items, such as those from a deli or restaurant, cannot be purchased with an EBT card. However, some states have exceptions for homeless individuals or those in emergency situations.
Household items
Household items, such as paper towels, laundry detergent, and dish soap, cannot be purchased with an EBT card unless they are necessary for the health and well-being of the household.
Where can you use your EBT card?
Participating retailers
You can use your EBT card at participating retailers that accept the SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits. These retailers will have a sign indicating that they accept EBT cards.
Farmer’s markets
Some farmer’s markets also accept EBT cards, allowing you to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables directly from local farmers.
How to use your EBT card at the checkout?
When checking out at the store, simply swipe your EBT card through the terminal or hand it to the cashier. You will then be prompted to enter your PIN, which is a four-digit number that you select when you first receive your card.
The total amount of eligible items will then be deducted from your food assistance benefits, and you will be given a receipt showing the remaining balance on your EBT card.
How to check your EBT card balance?
You can check your EBT card balance by calling the toll-free number on the back of your card or by logging into your state’s EBT website. You will need to enter your card number and PIN to access your account information.
Conclusion
Now that you know what you can and can’t purchase with your EBT card, you can make informed decisions when shopping for groceries and other eligible items. Remember to always check your state’s rules and regulations regarding the use of EBT cards, as they may vary from state to state.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about what you can purchase with an EBT card:
- Can I buy fast food with my EBT card?
- No, hot or prepared food items cannot be purchased with an EBT card. However, some states have exceptions for homeless individuals or those in emergency situations.
- Can I buy energy drinks with my EBT card?
- Energy drinks are not considered eligible food items and cannot be purchased with an EBT card.
- Can I buy pet food with my EBT card?
- No, pet food and supplies cannot be purchased with an EBT card.
- Can I use my EBT card at a farmer’s market?
- Some farmer’s markets accept EBT cards, allowing you to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables directly from local farmers.
- Can I check my EBT card balance online?
- Yes, you can check your EBT card balance by logging into your state’s EBT website.
- Can I buy cleaning supplies with my EBT card?
- Cleaning supplies can be purchased with an EBT card, as long as they are necessary for the health and well-being of the household.
References
- U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service. (n.d.). Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT). Retrieved from https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/electronic-benefits-transfer-ebt
- California Department of Social Services. (2020). Eligible Food List: What can I buy with my CalFresh benefits? Retrieved from https://www.cdss.ca.gov/Portals/9/CalFresh/docs/EBTCard/CalFreshEligibleFoodsList.pdf