Shopping at 5 Below can be super fun! They have tons of cool stuff, all for, you guessed it, $5 or less. But what if you’re using EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) cards, also known as SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits? You might be wondering if you can actually use your EBT card to buy things at 5 Below. Let’s dive in and get the answer!
The Direct Answer: Can You Use EBT at 5 Below?
Unfortunately, no, 5 Below does not accept EBT cards. 5 Below’s primary focus is on non-essential, fun, and recreational items. They don’t sell the types of groceries and food items that SNAP benefits are designed to cover. This means you won’t be able to use your EBT card to purchase items at any 5 Below store.
What Kind of Stores Usually Accept EBT?
Stores that accept EBT usually sell groceries and other food items. These stores are authorized by the USDA to process EBT transactions. That means they’ve gone through a process to ensure they are selling eligible items. They also have the proper equipment and training to accept the cards.
Here are some examples of common stores that accept EBT:
- Grocery Stores: Like Kroger, Safeway, and local markets.
- Supercenters: Stores like Walmart and Target often have a grocery section.
- Farmers Markets: Many farmers markets participate in the SNAP program.
These stores are equipped to handle transactions with SNAP benefits.
So, if you’re looking to buy groceries with your EBT card, you’ll need to shop somewhere else.
What Items Can You Buy With EBT?
Okay, so we know 5 Below doesn’t accept EBT, but what *can* you actually buy with it? Generally, SNAP benefits are intended for food and food-related items.
Here are some eligible items:
- Fruits and vegetables: Fresh, frozen, or canned.
- Meats, poultry, and fish: Any type of animal protein.
- Dairy products: Milk, cheese, yogurt, etc.
- Breads and cereals: Loaves of bread, cereal boxes, etc.
- Snack foods: Chips, cookies, etc.
- Non-alcoholic beverages: Juices, sodas, etc.
- Seeds and plants: To grow food.
So, the focus is on things you can eat to keep yourself healthy.
It is important to know that there are restrictions on what you can purchase, even within the categories above.
What Can’t You Buy With EBT?
While EBT covers a lot of food items, there are also some things you can’t purchase with it. SNAP benefits have specific guidelines about what’s allowed.
Some of the items you CANNOT buy with EBT are:
- Alcoholic beverages: Beer, wine, and liquor.
- Tobacco products: Cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco.
- Vitamins and supplements: These are usually considered non-food items.
- Pet food: Food for your furry friends isn’t covered.
- Cleaning supplies: Things like soap, detergent, etc.
These restrictions are in place to ensure that SNAP benefits are used for their intended purpose: providing food assistance. It’s important to know the rules so you don’t accidentally try to buy something ineligible.
Also, you can’t use your EBT card for hot food or food that is prepared to eat in the store.
Finding Out If a Store Accepts EBT
Not sure if a store accepts EBT? There are a few easy ways to find out.
First, look for signs! Many stores that accept EBT will have a sign posted somewhere near the entrance or the checkout lanes.
Second, ask an employee. The easiest way to confirm if a store accepts EBT is to ask a cashier or customer service representative.
Third, check online. Many grocery stores and supermarkets will list the forms of payment they accept on their websites.
Finally, search the USDA website. The USDA provides a directory of stores that accept SNAP benefits. This online tool allows you to search by location and can quickly tell you which stores in your area accept EBT.
Here is a table you can use to find out the method:
| Method | Description | Easy to use? |
|---|---|---|
| Signs | Look for EBT or SNAP signs. | Yes |
| Ask | Inquire with a cashier or employee. | Yes |
| Website | Search the store’s website. | Maybe |
| USDA | Use the USDA website directory. | Maybe |
Knowing how to find out if a store accepts EBT is super helpful when you’re planning your shopping trips.
Alternatives to 5 Below for EBT Shoppers
If you’re looking for affordable items and want to use your EBT card, you have some great options! Since 5 Below doesn’t accept EBT, where can you go instead?
You can shop at the stores that accept EBT mentioned above to purchase groceries. There are also some great options for discounted items.
One option would be to check out local thrift stores or discount retailers that sell food items. You can also try dollar stores as many of them now have food sections that accept EBT!
The options depend on the store. Not all stores accept EBT cards for the purchase of eligible food items.
Here are some possible options to find other stores that can accept EBT.
- Dollar General
- Dollar Tree
- Walmart
- Grocery Stores
Also, always make sure to check the store’s website or ask a cashier.
These stores provide a variety of items, so you can still find bargains while using your EBT card.
The Bottom Line on 5 Below and EBT
So, while it’s a bummer that you can’t use your EBT card at 5 Below, there are plenty of other places to shop! Knowing the rules about what you can and can’t buy with EBT and where you can use your card is key to smart shopping. Always check to make sure a store accepts EBT before you go and remember to stick to the eligible food items to make the most of your SNAP benefits. Happy shopping!