EBT Card Cash Withdrawals – Essential Tips Every Food Stamp Recipient Should Know

SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) is a very important and helpful program of America, which provides financial assistance to millions of people, especially the elderly, to buy proper and nutritious food. Through this scheme, people who find it difficult to buy food items are given some funds every month, so that they can take a good diet.

What is an EBT card and how does it work?

EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) card is a type of prepaid debit card, in which money is deposited every month under SNAP. With this money you can buy fruits, vegetables, milk, cereals, meat and other essential food items.

You can use these cards at:

• Supermarkets (like Walmart, Target, etc.)
• Neighborhood grocery stores
• Some farmers markets (where EBT is accepted)

❌ What you can’t buy with an EBT card:

• Alcohol or tobacco products
• Vitamins or supplements
• Pre-cooked hot food (like restaurant food or hot deli items)
• Note, these cards are only for eligible edibles, so their use is limited.

Can I withdraw cash from an EBT card?

If you’re only receiving SNAP benefits, you can’t withdraw money from an ATM with an EBT card.

But if your card also receives cash assistance like TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families), then in some states you can withdraw money from it. For this, you have to check your state’s rules.

📱 How to check your balance?

• There are three easy ways to check your EBT card balance:
• Look at your receipt for your last purchase – the balance will be listed on it.
• Log into your online account.
• Call the customer service number on the back of the card.
• It’s a good idea to check your balance before you shop to avoid any problems.

Things to remember when shopping with an EBT card:

• At some stores, the system automatically separates EBT-eligible and non-eligible items.
• But at many stores, you or the cashier will have to do it manually.
• Swipe your card and enter your PIN when you shop.
• If your balance is low, you’ll have to pay another way (like cash or a debit card).

🚫 What to do if you face discrimination?

Some SNAP beneficiaries have reported facing discrimination when they use their EBT cards at stores.

👉 If this happens to you, you can file a complaint with the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture). According to SNAP rules, every beneficiary should be treated with respect.

Ways to keep EBT card safe:

• Cases of fraud related to EBT card are increasing. To keep your card safe, keep these things in mind:
• Never share your PIN with anyone (not even friends or relatives).
• Keep changing the PIN from time to time.
• Keep an eye on your card’s activity i.e. transactions. If you see any suspicious transaction, report it immediately.

✅ Conclusion

SNAP and EBT cards are very useful for those who have financial difficulties in buying food items. If you or any member of your family is taking advantage of SNAP, then the information given above will prove to be very beneficial for you.

Use your EBT card properly, keep it safe, and contact the official website or helpline for any problems or questions.

FAQs