EBT cards, also known as Electronic Benefits Transfer cards, allow individuals and families to purchase certain food items and non-alcoholic beverages at authorized retailers. These cards are typically used by low-income households to help supplement their food budget. Here’s a breakdown of what you can buy with EBT cards.
1. Eligible Food Items
EBT cards can be used to purchase a variety of food items, including:
- fruits and vegetables
- meat, poultry, and fish
- dairy products
- breads and cereals
- snack foods
Some non-food items are also eligible for purchase with EBT cards, including:
- seeds and plants that produce food for the household to eat
- energy drinks that have a nutrition facts label
2. Ineligible Items
There are certain items that cannot be purchased with EBT cards, such as:
- alcohol
- tobacco products
- vitamins and supplements
- hot foods ready to eat
- pet food
3. SNAP Retailers
EBT cards can only be used at authorized retailers that are approved by the SNAP program. These include:
- grocery stores
- convenience stores
- farmers markets
- online retailers that have been approved by the USDA
4. Restaurant Meals Program
Some states participate in the Restaurant Meals Program, which allows certain individuals, such as elderly, homeless, and disabled individuals, to use their EBT cards to purchase hot meals from participating restaurants. This program aims to provide access to nutritious meals for those in need.
5. Purchase Restrictions
There are restrictions on what can be purchased with EBT cards to ensure that the benefits are used for their intended purpose. Some of these restrictions include:
- EBT cards cannot be used to purchase non-food items
- EBT cards cannot be used to purchase items that are not for household consumption
- EBT cards cannot be used to purchase prepared foods that are meant for immediate consumption
In conclusion, EBT cards provide a valuable resource for individuals and families in need of assistance with their food budget. By understanding what can and cannot be purchased with EBT cards, recipients can make the most of their benefits and ensure that they have access to nutritious food options.