Do Gas Stations Take EBT? What You Can Buy

The Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) system serves as a method for distributing government benefits, primarily the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), often referred to as food stamps. This system allows eligible individuals to receive financial assistance for food purchases through a card that functions similarly to a debit card. Each month, benefits are electronically loaded onto the EBT card, which can then be used at authorized retail locations to buy eligible food items.

Eligible Purchases at Gas Stations

When using an EBT card at a gas station, purchases are limited to SNAP-eligible food items sold within the accompanying convenience store. These items include most food products found in a typical grocery store, intended for home preparation and consumption. Examples include fresh, frozen, or canned fruits and vegetables, meats, poultry, and fish. Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt are eligible.

Pantry staples like bread, cereals, rice, and pasta are eligible. Snack foods like chips, pretzels, and baked goods, along with non-alcoholic beverages such as water, soda, and juices, are eligible. Cold, pre-packaged sandwiches and salads are allowed, as they are not hot at the point of sale. Seeds and plants that produce food for the household are eligible.

Ineligible Purchases at Gas Stations

Gasoline itself cannot be purchased with an EBT card, as SNAP benefits are strictly for food items. Other ineligible items include alcoholic beverages like beer, wine, and liquor, and tobacco products. Hot prepared foods intended for immediate consumption, such as hot coffee, hot deli sandwiches, or rotisserie chicken, are ineligible.

Non-food items commonly found at gas stations, like cleaning supplies, paper products, household supplies, and toiletries, cannot be bought with EBT. Vitamins, medicines, and any products with a “Supplement Facts” label (rather than a “Nutrition Facts” label) are excluded from EBT purchases. Pet foods and live animals (excluding some seafood) are not allowed.

Using Your EBT Card at a Gas Station

Using an EBT card at a gas station convenience store follows a process similar to using a debit card. First, ensure you have sufficient funds by checking your balance. This can be done on a previous receipt or by calling the customer service number on the back of your card. At the checkout, present your EBT card to the cashier.

The cashier or point-of-sale (POS) terminal will prompt you to swipe or insert your card. You will then enter your Personal Identification Number (PIN) on the keypad. After the transaction is approved, you will receive a receipt detailing the purchase and your remaining balance. If your purchase includes both eligible and ineligible items, the cashier might separate them, requiring a different payment method for the non-EBT items.

Locating EBT-Accepting Gas Stations

Gas stations that accept EBT can be found through a few methods. Many authorized retailers, including gas stations with convenience stores, will display signs indicating that EBT or SNAP benefits are accepted, often near the entrance or at the checkout counter. These signs might feature the EBT or Quest card logo.

For a more precise search, individuals can use online tools. The USDA Food and Nutrition Service provides a SNAP Retailer Locator tool that allows users to search for nearby authorized merchants by address, city, state, or zip code. State SNAP or EBT websites may also offer resources or lists of participating retailers.