How to Buy Food With Food Stamps

A trip to the local grocery store can be confusing to someone who has just received food stamps. There are certain foods that are excluded with food stamp benefits. Before going grocery shopping, know what food is eligible.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

The EBT Card

1. Set up the pin number for your EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer)card by calling the phone number in the enclosed notice; there is also a customer service phone number on the back of your card.
2. Go online to your state's food stamp program and login. This information should be included in the paperwork that came with the EBT card. After logging in, you should be able to see the balance on your EBT card and the date the food stamps renew.
3. Buy the groceries you need and swipe the card as you would a regular credit card. Items that are not eligible as food stamp purchases will be automatically removed from the purchase.
4. Keep the store receipt, as it will show the new balance available on your EBT card. Every time you visit the grocery store and use the card, the balance is deducted from your monthly allowance.

Allowable Foods

5. Buy fresh fruits and vegetables, canned or frozen fruits and vegetables for good value when using the EBT card.
6. Stock up on staples such as flour, sugar, oils, spices, cereals, soups, canned goods and frozen foods.
7. Buy meat when on sale for good value on your EBT card, including fresh, frozen or canned meats.
8. Save snacks for last, as they are most expensive. Chips, cookies, ice cream and other goodies are eligible for food stamps.

Tips & Warnings

• Most grocery stores accept food stamps. Look for the logo that your state is using.
• Small groceries or vegetable stands may not accept food stamps. Ask before shopping.
• Call the customer service number for balances if you don't have Internet access.
• The official website for most states will allow you to apply for food stamps online.
• Go online to the USDA website for a complete list of allowable foods.
• Go online to your state's official website for a list of allowable foods.
• Call the customer service number on the back of your EBT card if you don't have internet access; ask for an eligible food list.
• You cannot buy alcohol, cigarettes, soaps, toilet tissue, pet food, medicines or other non-food items with food stamps.
• Hot and ready to eat foods are not allowed, like rotisserie chicken or hot macaroni and cheese from the deli; However, boxed macaroni and cheese or frozen, pre-cooked chickens are allowed.
• Food stamps are issued once a month to your card, Once you go over the limit, there are no benefits until the next month.