One of the questions we often get on this website from our readers is “What does EBT Stand for?”. Here is the answer, including a description of the various EBT programs and how to apply for an EBT Card.
Electronic benefit transfer (EBT) is an electronic system that allows state welfare departments to issue benefits through a card that acts like a debit card. Each month, the benefit amount is deposited into the individual’s EBT account. The individual is then able to use the debit card (which is called an EBT Card) to make purchases or make payments at approved locations or buy approved items.
There are two types of EBT Benefits – food and cash benefits:
EBT Food Benefits
The food benefit that is typically distributed through the EBT Card is the Food Stamps program, which is now called the
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). In some states, the Women and Infant Nutrition program (WIC) is also distributed through the EBT Card.
Cash EBT Benefits
The cash benefit programs that are distributed through the EBT Cards include state general assistance, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits and refugee benefits.
How to Apply for an EBT Card
Here is how to apply for an EBT Card: First you have to determine which EBT program you qualify for. The most popular EBT program is the food stamps program. To apply for food stamps, you have to make sure you are eligible. Here is a quick review of the eligibility criteria. The USDA has a detailed list of eligibility rules here, but the most important is the income criteria, which we have shown in a chart below. You have to earn below the Gross and Net Income limits to qualify.
How Much Will I Get In Food Stamps?
If approved, the amount of food stamps you will get on a monthly basis will depend on the number of people in your household. The table below shows the maximum amount you are likely to get based on your household size:
To find out where or what you can use your EBT Card for, click here.
To apply for WIC in your state, visit this page.
To apply for TANF, click here.
So, there you have it. The question “what does EBT stand for” has been answered in detail, including how to apply for an EBT Card. If you have further question or another topic you would like us to write about, tell us in the comments section below.
