Getting approved for SNAP benefits is a big step toward food security. But if you're new to the program, figuring out how to actually use your EBT card can feel confusing at first.
In this article, we'll cover:
- What SNAP and EBT mean
- How to use your EBT card at stores
- What you can and cannot buy with SNAP
- Where to shop with your EBT card
- How to check your balance
1. Understanding SNAP and EBT
SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) is the federal program that provides food benefits to eligible individuals and families. Your benefits are loaded onto an EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) card, which works like a debit card at checkout.
Each month, your SNAP benefits are automatically deposited onto your EBT card on a set date. The exact date depends on your state and sometimes the last digit of your case number.
2. How to Use Your EBT Card
Using your EBT card is straightforward once you know the basics:
- At checkout, tell the cashier you're paying with EBT (or select EBT on the payment screen at self-checkout)
- Swipe or insert your card like a debit card
- Enter your PIN on the keypad
- Confirm the amount being charged to your SNAP balance
If you're buying both SNAP-eligible and non-eligible items, the register will split the transaction. You'll pay for non-eligible items separately with cash, debit, or credit.
Important: Never share your EBT PIN with anyone. If your card is lost or stolen, report it immediately to your state's EBT customer service number (found on the back of your card).
3. What You Can Buy with SNAP
SNAP benefits are designed for food and groceries. Eligible items include:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Dairy products
- Breads and cereals
- Snack foods
- Non-alcoholic beverages
- Seeds and plants that produce food
Items you cannot buy with SNAP:
- Alcohol and tobacco
- Vitamins and supplements
- Hot prepared foods
- Non-food items (cleaning supplies, paper products, pet food)
- Restaurant meals (with limited exceptions in some states)
4. Where to Shop
Most grocery stores accept EBT, including major chains and many smaller retailers. Look for signs that say "SNAP Accepted" or "EBT Welcome."
You can use your EBT card at:
- Grocery stores and supermarkets
- Farmers markets (many now accept EBT)
- Some convenience stores
- Online retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and others (availability varies by state)
To find stores near you that accept SNAP, use the USDA's SNAP Retailer Locator online or call your local SNAP office.
5. Checking Your EBT Balance
Knowing your balance helps you budget effectively. You can check your SNAP balance by:
- Looking at your receipt – the remaining balance is printed at the bottom
- Calling the number on your card – automated systems let you check 24/7
- Using your state's EBT app or website – most states offer online portals
- Checking at an ATM – some ATMs show EBT balances (avoid ATMs that charge fees)
Important: Your SNAP benefits don't roll over indefinitely. While unused benefits do carry over month to month, accounts with no activity for 12 months may be closed in some states.
6. Tips for Stretching Your SNAP Benefits
Make your benefits last longer with these strategies:
- Plan meals before shopping to avoid impulse purchases
- Compare unit prices to find the best deals
- Buy store brands instead of name brands
- Shop sales and use coupons (yes, you can combine coupons with SNAP)
- Purchase whole foods and cook at home when possible
- Visit farmers markets that offer SNAP matching programs
7. How Purple Helps SNAP Recipients
Purple makes it easier to manage your SNAP benefits alongside any other income you receive.
With Purple, you can:
- Track when your SNAP benefits are deposited each month
- Separate your SNAP spending from other expenses for clearer budgeting
- Set up alerts so you never miss a deposit
- View all your income sources in one place
- Monitor your overall financial picture without confusing different benefit types
Purple's benefit-friendly approach means your account works smoothly with government programs. No hidden fees eating into your budget, and no minimum balance requirements.