In recent years, the use of Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards has expanded beyond traditional grocery stores to include gas stations and convenience stores.
This expansion allows EBT cardholders greater access to food and essential supplies, particularly in areas where grocery stores may be scarce.
Gas stations and convenience stores that accept EBT can provide a vital lifeline for those in need, as they are often open 24 hours and offer a range of goods, including fresh produce, meat, and dairy products.
In this article, we will explore the benefits of using EBT cards at gas stations, which gas stations accept EBT, and what types of items you can purchase with your EBT card.
Do Gas Stations Take EBT
Numerous gas stations across the United States accept Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) for food stamps and EBT-Cash cards.
More than 50 gas stations, including large chains like 7-Eleven, Circle K, Cumberland Farms, Flying J, and Exxon Mobil, accept EBT.
The acceptance of EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) at gas stations varies depending on the state and the specific gas station.
Generally, EBT is meant to be used for the purchase of food items, so not all gas stations may accept EBT as a form of payment.
When using an EBT Cash card at an EBT-accepting location, individuals can use it to purchase fuel for their vehicle and buy a wide range of items in the store, such as personal hygiene products or food.
However, they are restricted from buying any items that are prohibited for children under the age of 18.
For individuals whose EBT cards are solely applicable to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, their options for purchasing items are further limited.
Along with the above-mentioned adult-only products, they cannot buy fuel, pre-packaged convenience foods, such as pre-cooked hot dogs from 7-Eleven gas stations, or foods on the go, such as an ice cream cone from Cumberland Farms.
Nevertheless, they can still purchase everyday groceries, such as milk, bread, butter, or any other commonly sold products at gas stations or convenience stores. According to foodstampnow.
However, in some states, there are programs that allow EBT benefits to be used for the purchase of gasoline or other transportation-related expenses. In these states, some gas stations may accept EBT as a form of payment for fuel.
It’s best to check with your local gas station or the agency that manages your EBT benefits to find out if EBT can be used to purchase fuel in your area.
Gas Stations That Accept SNAP/EBT Card
There are numerous gas stations across the United States that accept food stamps and EBT cards. The list of gas stations that accept EBT includes major chains such as 7-Eleven, Circle K, Cumberland Farms, Flying J, and Exxon Mobil.
Other gas stations on the list include 76, Casey’s General Stores, Chevron, CITGO, Clark’s Pump-N-Shop, CoGo’s, Conoco, Costco, Country Fair, Delta Sonic, Fas Mart, GetGo, Gulf Oil, High’s Dairy Store, Holiday Stationstores, Huck’s, Kroger, Kum & Go, Kwik Trip, Lassus Handy Dandy, Love’s, LUKOIL, Marathon Oil, Murphy’s USA, Plaid Pantry, Phillip’s 66, QuickChek, QuikTrip, RaceTrac & Raceway Stores, Royal Farms, Rutter’s Farm Store, Sam’s Club, Sheetz, Shell, Sinclair, Speedway, Spinx, Shop-A-Minit, Stewart’s Shops, Sunoco, Texaco, Thorntons, Travelcenters of America, Turkey Hill, Valero, and Wawa.
Individuals with EBT cards that are only applicable for SNAP benefits have even more limited options, as they cannot buy fuel, pre-packaged convenience foods, or on-the-go foods like pre-cooked hot dogs or ice cream cones from certain gas stations.
Related: EBT card not working, What to do
Conclusion
The use of EBT cards at gas stations and convenience stores can provide a critical source of food and supplies for those in need.
With more than 50 gas station chains across the United States now accepting EBT, access to fresh produce, meat, and dairy products has become more readily available to EBT cardholders.
By understanding which gas stations accept EBT and what items are eligible for purchase, individuals and families can make the most of their benefits and improve their overall food security.
FAQ’s
How do I know if a gas station accepts EBT cards?
You can either check the list of authorized EBT-accepting gas stations provided by your state’s Department of Social Services or check with the gas station directly to see if they accept EBT cards.
Can I use my EBT card to purchase gas at any gas station?
No, you can only use your EBT card at gas stations that have been authorized to accept food stamps and EBT cards.
Can I use my EBT card to purchase prepared foods or on-the-go snacks at a gas station?
It depends on the type of EBT card you have. If your EBT card is only applicable for SNAP benefits, you cannot purchase pre-packaged convenience foods or on-the-go foods like pre-cooked hot dogs or ice cream cones from certain gas stations. However, you can still purchase everyday groceries such as milk, bread, butter, or other commonly sold products at gas stations or convenience stores.
Can I use my EBT card to purchase items online from gas stations that accept EBT cards?
No, you cannot use your EBT card to make online purchases from gas stations that accept EBT cards. EBT cards can only be used for in-person purchases at authorized EBT retailers.
Can I use my EBT card to purchase car maintenance items like oil or windshield wiper fluid?
Yes, you can use your EBT card to purchase car maintenance items that are sold at the gas station. However, you cannot use your EBT card to pay for services like oil changes or car repairs.
Can I use my EBT card at gas station ATMs to withdraw cash?
Yes, you can use your EBT card at gas station ATMs to withdraw cash, but keep in mind that some ATMs may charge a fee for withdrawals.
Can I use my EBT card to pay for fuel if I’m using a rental car?
Maybe. It depends on the rental car company’s policies. Some rental car companies allow customers to use EBT cards to pay for fuel, while others do not. Contact the rental car company directly to find out their policies on EBT payments.
Can I use my EBT card to purchase propane gas at gas stations that accept EBT?
Yes, you can use your EBT card to purchase propane gas at gas stations that accept EBT. However, you cannot use your EBT card to purchase other types of fuel, such as diesel or kerosene.
Can I use my EBT card to purchase gift cards at the gas station?
No, you cannot use your EBT card to purchase gift cards or other non-food items at the gas station, as these items are not considered essential for everyday living.