EBT, or Electronic Benefits Transfer, can be used to purchase certain food items in approved retail stores. These food items are meant to provide nutritional support to individuals and families who are eligible for government assistance programs.
Retail Stores
EBT can be used at authorized retail stores, including supermarkets, grocery stores, and farmer’s markets that are approved by the SNAP program. This allows recipients to purchase a variety of eligible food items for their households.
- Supermarkets
- Grocery Stores
- Farmer’s Markets (participating in SNAP)
Food Items
EBT benefits can be used to purchase a wide range of food items that are meant for human consumption. These items include fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, bread, and cereals. However, there are restrictions on certain items like alcohol, tobacco, and hot prepared foods.
Food Items Covered by EBT
| Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Fruits | Apples, bananas, oranges |
| Vegetables | Carrots, spinach, tomatoes |
| Meat | Chicken, beef, pork |
| Dairy | Milk, cheese, yogurt |
Non-Food Items
EBT benefits are strictly meant for purchasing food items, and cannot be used to buy non-food items such as cleaning products, toiletries, pet food, or household supplies. Recipients should be mindful of this restriction when using their EBT cards.
Online Purchases
Recently, the USDA has expanded the use of EBT benefits for online purchasing in select states. This allows recipients to buy groceries online using their EBT cards at participating retailers. However, not all online stores accept EBT payments, so users should check with their state’s program for a list of eligible retailers.
Fast Food Restaurants
In certain states, EBT benefits can be used at approved fast food restaurants under the Restaurant Meals Program. This program allows eligible individuals who are homeless, elderly, or disabled to purchase hot meals from participating restaurants. However, this program is limited to specific demographics in certain locations.
In conclusion, EBT benefits play a crucial role in providing nutrition assistance to low-income individuals and families. By understanding what can and cannot be purchased with EBT cards, recipients can make informed choices to support their nutritional needs.