How to Get Cash From an EBT Card in California

Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards in California serve as a digital means for distributing food and cash assistance to eligible individuals and families. The card functions similarly to a debit card, allowing recipients to access their allocated benefits for purchasing food or withdrawing cash. This article aims to provide a clear understanding of how to access the cash portion of your EBT benefits within California. It will detail the various locations where cash withdrawals are possible, outline the procedural steps involved, and explain the associated limits and costs.

Where to Get Cash

Accessing cash benefits from an EBT card is possible at several types of locations across California. Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) are a common option, with many machines displaying the Quest, Plus, or Cirrus logos indicating EBT card acceptance. It is advisable to look for ATMs that specifically show the EBT logo to ensure compatibility and avoid certain fees.

Many grocery stores, convenience stores, and other retail establishments also serve as points for cash access through their Point-of-Sale (POS) systems. These retailers may offer cash back with a purchase, or allow for a standalone cash withdrawal without a concurrent purchase. Policies can differ among individual retailers, so inquire at the customer service desk or with the cashier. Some bank branches also facilitate over-the-counter cash withdrawals from EBT cards; however, confirm the specific bank’s policy beforehand as this service is not universally offered. To locate nearby EBT-friendly ATMs or participating retailers, recipients can utilize the California EBT client website or a designated mobile application.

Steps for Cash Withdrawal

Once at an approved location, the process for withdrawing cash from an EBT card is straightforward. At an Automated Teller Machine, insert your EBT card. Enter your four-digit Personal Identification Number (PIN). Select “Withdrawal” or “Cash Withdrawal,” then choose “Checking” or “Cash Benefits.” Enter the desired amount, and retrieve your cash and the transaction receipt before leaving the ATM.

For cash withdrawals at a participating retail store, inform the cashier you intend to use your EBT card for a cash withdrawal or to receive cash back. The cashier will guide you to swipe or insert your EBT card into the POS terminal. Enter your PIN on the keypad. After successful PIN entry, select “Cash” or “Cash Benefits” and input the desired cash amount. The cashier will disburse the cash and a receipt; always safeguard your PIN, count your cash immediately upon receipt, and retain your transaction receipt for your records.

Cash Limits and Associated Costs

EBT cash withdrawals in California are subject to specific financial parameters, including daily withdrawal limits and potential fees. The state imposes daily limits on the total amount of cash that can be withdrawn from an EBT card, which can vary. There may also be per-transaction limits imposed by individual ATMs or POS systems, which could be lower than the overall daily limit. To confirm the most current daily and transaction limits, cardholders can refer to the official California EBT website or contact the customer service number located on the back of their card.

EBT cash withdrawals are typically surcharge-free at ATMs that display the Quest logo or are part of the EBT network. However, if you use a non-network ATM, the operator may impose a “surcharge fee.” These fees are usually displayed on the ATM screen before you complete the withdrawal, allowing you to cancel. Retailers generally do not levy fees for EBT cash withdrawals or cash back at their POS terminals. Before attempting a withdrawal, check your EBT cash balance. This can be done through the California EBT client website or mobile app, by calling the customer service number, or by performing a balance inquiry at an ATM or POS terminal.