You’ve probably been to 5 Below, that awesome store packed with fun stuff for, well, five bucks or less! Maybe you’re wondering if you can use your EBT card there. EBT, or Electronic Benefit Transfer, is like a debit card for people who get help with food. It’s super important to know where you can spend that money. Let’s dive into whether you can use your EBT card at 5 Below and everything else you need to know.
The Simple Answer: Does 5 Below Accept EBT?
Unfortunately, 5 Below does not accept EBT cards. That means you can’t use your SNAP benefits to buy anything in their stores.
Why Doesn’t 5 Below Take EBT?
The reason 5 Below doesn’t accept EBT is because of the types of products they sell. EBT, through the SNAP program, is designed to help people buy eligible food items. 5 Below mostly sells non-food items. They’ve got toys, room decor, candy, and seasonal stuff. So, if you’re looking to use your SNAP benefits, you’ll need to shop at places that primarily sell groceries.
Here’s a quick list:
- Most grocery stores (like Kroger, Safeway, etc.)
- Supermarkets
- Some pharmacies that sell groceries
If you’re ever unsure, you can usually ask a store employee or look for signs near the checkout that indicate whether they accept EBT.
What Can You Buy with SNAP Benefits?
If you’re using your EBT card, you can only purchase specific food items. This includes things like fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, and grains. Basically, anything that’s considered food for your family. The items must be unheated or prepared. This means you can’t buy ready-made hot meals at most places. The USDA sets these rules to ensure that SNAP benefits are used for food purchases.
Here is a quick rundown:
- Fruits and vegetables (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt)
- Grains (bread, rice, pasta)
There are exceptions. For example, some states may allow SNAP benefits to be used for restaurant meals for people who are elderly, disabled, or homeless. It’s a good idea to check the specific rules for your state.
Finding Stores That Accept EBT Near You
So, how do you find out where you can use your EBT card? The easiest way is to call your local food bank or SNAP office. They can provide a list of stores in your area that accept EBT. You can also use the internet. The USDA has resources. You can use search engines, entering terms like “EBT stores near me.”
Here are some common places to look:
- Your local grocery store
- Large supermarket chains
- Some farmers markets
Always look for the EBT sign at the checkout. This is your final confirmation that the store accepts the card.
What About Snack Items at 5 Below?
Even though 5 Below sells candy and snacks, you still can’t use your EBT card to buy them. The important thing to remember is that the majority of the items sold by 5 Below are not eligible for SNAP. Since that is the case, the store doesn’t have the systems in place to process EBT transactions.
This table shows some food items you might find at 5 Below (and their eligibility):
| Item | EBT Eligible? |
|---|---|
| Candy | Likely No |
| Chips | Likely No |
| Pop | Likely No |
| Some snack items | Likely No |
Remember, the main focus of 5 Below is not on food items.
Planning Your Shopping with SNAP Benefits
If you’re using SNAP, it’s essential to plan your shopping trips. Before you go to the store, make a list of the foods you need and check what’s in your pantry already. Then, research the grocery stores near you that accept EBT. This will help you stay within your budget and ensure you can buy all the food you need.
- Make a shopping list based on your family’s needs.
- Check store flyers for sales and coupons.
- Compare prices at different stores.
Also, it’s a great idea to keep track of your SNAP balance. You can often do this online through your state’s EBT portal or by calling a customer service number.
Alternatives for Shopping at 5 Below
If you want to shop at 5 Below, you’ll need to use another form of payment. If you don’t have cash or another debit card, you might consider asking family or friends to shop with you. You may have to wait until you can budget in the cost of the fun stuff from 5 Below.
You can also use this list:
- Cash
- Debit Card
- Credit Card
Another idea is to set a budget for non-SNAP purchases, so you can treat yourself to a few things from 5 Below now and then!
Conclusion
So, now you know the answer to “Does 5 Below Accept EBT?” Unfortunately, the answer is no. While it’s a bummer if you were hoping to use your SNAP benefits there, there are plenty of other stores that do accept EBT where you can buy groceries and food items. Always remember to plan your shopping trips, make a list, and know where your EBT card is accepted. Happy shopping!