What Banks and ATMs Accept EBT Cards?

Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards serve as a modern method for distributing government benefits, operating much like a debit card. These cards primarily deliver two types of assistance: Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, intended for food purchases, and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits, which provide cash assistance.

Accessing Cash Benefits

EBT cardholders receiving cash benefits, such as those from the TANF program, can withdraw these funds through Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) or by requesting cash back at participating Point-of-Sale (POS) terminals. Many ATMs displaying the Quest logo, or other major network logos like Plus, Cirrus, NYCE, or Allpoint, accept EBT cards for cash withdrawals. At an ATM, insert your EBT card, enter your PIN, and select “cash withdrawal” or “EBT cash.” Specify the desired amount and collect your cash and receipt. Alternatively, many authorized retailers allow cardholders to receive cash back from their TANF benefits at the checkout counter, often without needing to make a purchase.

Making Food Purchases

SNAP benefits loaded onto an EBT card are specifically designated for eligible food items and can be used at various authorized retailers. These include grocery stores, supermarkets, farmers markets, and some convenience stores. When making a food purchase, present your EBT card at the Point-of-Sale (POS) terminal. Swipe or insert it, enter your PIN, and select “EBT Food” or “Food Stamps” to complete the transaction.

SNAP benefits cover most staple foods, such as fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, bread, cereals, and even seeds and plants that produce food for the household. Items not eligible for purchase include hot, prepared foods, alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, and non-food items like cleaning supplies or pet food. If a purchase includes both eligible and ineligible items, or if the total cost exceeds the available EBT food balance, the EBT benefits are used first, and the remaining balance can be paid with another form of payment.

Finding EBT-Accepting Locations

Identifying locations that accept EBT cards is straightforward, as authorized ATMs and retailers display specific logos. The Quest logo is a common indicator found at the entrances of stores, on ATM machines, and at checkout lanes, signifying EBT acceptance.

Beyond looking for these visual cues, cardholders can utilize online resources provided by their state’s EBT program. Most states maintain official websites or mobile applications, such as ebtEDGE or BenefitsCal, which offer locator tools to help users find nearby authorized retailers and surcharge-free ATMs. Many large grocery store chains and major retailers across the country are equipped to accept EBT cards for both food and cash benefits. If uncertainty remains, cardholders can always inquire with store personnel whether EBT is accepted before attempting a transaction.

Transaction Fees

Using an EBT card for SNAP food purchases does not incur transaction fees for the cardholder. However, cash withdrawals using TANF benefits may be subject to fees, depending on the ATM and state-specific policies. One common charge is an out-of-network ATM surcharge, which can range from approximately $1.00 to $4.00, imposed by the ATM owner.

Additionally, some states may implement their own transaction fees after a certain number of free monthly withdrawals. To minimize or avoid these fees, cardholders are encouraged to seek out ATMs that explicitly state they are surcharge-free for EBT transactions, or to opt for cash back at a participating retail location, which is often fee-free. Consult the specific rules and fee schedules provided by your state’s EBT program.