If you’re getting food assistance in Minnesota through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also known as Food Support, you’ll be using an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. It works like a debit card, and you use it to buy groceries. But, figuring out where you can actually use that card can be a little tricky. This essay will help you understand which stores in Minnesota accept EBT so you can make sure you’re buying food at places that take your benefits.
Major Grocery Chains That Accept EBT
A lot of the big grocery stores you already know and love accept EBT cards! These stores are usually your go-to spots for a wide variety of food and household items. Knowing which stores accept EBT is super helpful when planning your shopping trips. But where do you start when you’re trying to figure out which stores accept EBT?
The most common stores you can use your EBT card at are large supermarket chains. These chains are required to participate in the SNAP program to make sure people have access to food.
When you’re shopping, keep an eye out for signs that say “EBT Accepted” or “SNAP Accepted.” These signs are a good indication that the store takes your card. It’s always a good idea to double-check at the checkout just to be sure, but most major grocery stores will take EBT.
Here are some of the most common grocery chains that accept EBT in Minnesota:
- Hy-Vee
- Cub Foods
- ALDI
- Target (for groceries)
Local Grocery Stores and Markets
Besides the big chains, a lot of smaller, local grocery stores and markets also accept EBT. These can be great places to find fresh produce, unique products, and support your local community. You might discover some hidden gems that you never knew existed! Some locally owned stores are required to accept EBT like some big stores, but smaller ones are not. You’ll need to make sure you know before you go!
To find these local stores, you can:
- Ask your neighbors or friends. They might know about some great local shops!
- Look for signs in store windows that say “EBT Accepted” or “SNAP Accepted.”
- Use the USDA’s SNAP Retailer Locator to search for stores near you. This is a great tool that will show you stores, including local stores, that accept EBT.
- Check the store’s website or call them ahead of time to confirm if they accept EBT.
Here’s a quick reminder of some of the benefits of shopping at local stores:
- Fresh and local produce
- Supporting local businesses
- Unique products and services
Farmers Markets and EBT
Farmers markets are a fantastic place to buy fresh, seasonal produce directly from the farmers who grow it. Many farmers markets in Minnesota also accept EBT cards! You can get fresh fruits, vegetables, and other foods at these markets. Many markets have worked out a way to let you use your EBT card for purchases!
How does it work? Usually, you’ll go to the market information booth or a central location and swipe your EBT card. You’ll then receive tokens or market money that you can use to purchase items from participating vendors. It is an easy and fun way to use your EBT benefits!
Here is some information about how to use your EBT card at a farmers market:
- Look for signs: Farmers markets that accept EBT will have signs posted that say so.
- Visit the information booth: Go to the market’s information booth or customer service desk to swipe your EBT card and receive tokens or market money.
- Use the tokens: Use the tokens like cash to buy eligible food items from the participating vendors.
Using EBT at farmers markets can be a great way to support local farmers, access fresh produce, and enjoy a community event!
Convenience Stores and EBT
You might be surprised to learn that some convenience stores also accept EBT! This is super convenient if you need to grab a quick snack or a few groceries on the go. Not all convenience stores accept EBT, but an increasing number are participating in SNAP. But how can you find out?
Look for the same signs as with grocery stores: “EBT Accepted” or “SNAP Accepted” will indicate that the store takes EBT. Convenience stores have to be approved for the SNAP program, like grocery stores. You’ll usually be able to purchase similar items as you can at a grocery store, like bread, dairy, meat, and produce.
Here is a quick guide on what to expect when using your EBT card at a convenience store:
| Do’s | Don’ts |
|---|---|
| Check for signs before shopping. | Assume all stores accept EBT. |
| Purchase eligible food items. | Buy non-food items with your EBT card. |
| Ask the cashier if you’re unsure. | Be afraid to ask for help. |
Shopping at convenience stores with your EBT card can be a lifesaver when you are in a rush and need some food items!
Online Grocery Shopping with EBT
Good news! You can even use your EBT card to buy groceries online! This is a huge help for people who can’t get to the store easily, or who prefer to shop from the comfort of their own home. Several stores in Minnesota let you order groceries online and pay with your EBT card.
Most of the large grocery chains that accept EBT in-store also allow online ordering. Look for options like “EBT” or “SNAP” as a payment method during checkout. You can choose from various grocery stores online! This is a great resource to have access to!
Here is a short checklist of what you need to do to shop for groceries online with your EBT card:
- Find a participating store: Research which stores offer online grocery shopping with EBT in your area.
- Create an account: You’ll need to create an account with the store.
- Shop for groceries: Add the food items you want to your online cart.
- Choose EBT as payment: Select EBT or SNAP as your payment option during checkout.
- Enter your EBT card information: Enter your EBT card number and other information to complete the payment.
- Schedule a pickup or delivery: Arrange to have your groceries picked up or delivered.
Online grocery shopping with your EBT card is a convenient and accessible option for many families in Minnesota.
What Can You Buy With EBT?
It’s super important to know what you can and can’t buy with your EBT card. SNAP benefits are meant to help you buy food, so you can’t purchase things like alcohol, tobacco, or pet food. What items can you buy though?
With your EBT card, you can purchase a variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, meats, poultry, fish, dairy products, breads, cereals, and snack foods. You can also buy seeds and plants that produce food! That means you can start your own garden and grow your own food.
Here’s a quick overview:
- What you can buy: Fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy products, bread, cereals, snack foods, seeds and plants that produce food
- What you can’t buy: Alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, pet food, non-food items
Knowing the rules will help you shop smart and make sure you’re using your benefits correctly.
Other Resources for Finding EBT Retailers
Besides the information we’ve already covered, there are a few other resources that can help you find stores in Minnesota that accept EBT. These resources can provide up-to-date information and can also connect you to other assistance programs.
The Minnesota Department of Human Services website is a great place to start. They have information about SNAP, including a list of retailers. You can also use the USDA’s SNAP Retailer Locator, which allows you to search for stores near you. You can also call the store and ask if they accept EBT! Here is a quick list of these resources:
- Minnesota Department of Human Services Website
- USDA SNAP Retailer Locator
- Call the store and ask
These resources are helpful for finding stores and staying up-to-date on SNAP benefits in Minnesota.
Knowing where to shop is a big part of making the most of your SNAP benefits. By using your EBT card at the right stores, you can access the food you need to keep yourself and your family healthy. From big grocery chains to local farmers markets, there are many options available to you in Minnesota. Happy shopping!