Does Ampm Take EBT Cards, SNAP or Food Stamps?
Ampm accepts EBT cards, SNAP benefits, and food stamps at all their store locations across the United States. This makes it convenient for low-income families to purchase groceries and essential food items using their SNAP benefits.
What You Can Buy at Ampm with Your EBT Card
Here’s what you can purchase at Ampm with your EBT card:
· Fruits and Vegetables: Fresh, frozen, canned, and dried varieties.
· Proteins: Meat, poultry, and fish.
<<<<< Does ampm Take SNAP, EBT, or Food Stamps? >>>>>
· Grains: Bread, pasta, rice, tortillas, and oatmeal.
· Dairy Products: Milk, cheese, yogurt, and butter.
· Non-alcoholic Beverages: Juices, water, and soft drinks.
· Snacks: Cereals, crackers, and cookies (be mindful of sugar content).
· Seeds and Plants: For growing your own food.
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· Canned and Dry Goods: Beans, lentils, pasta sauce, and canned soups.
In some states participating in the Restaurant Meals Program, Ampm may also allow you to purchase hot prepared meals with your EBT card. These states include Arizona, California, Illinois (certain counties), Maryland, Michigan, and Rhode Island.
What You Cannot Buy at Ampm with Your EBT Card
There are certain items you cannot purchase with your EBT card at Ampm, or any other grocery store or convenience store for that matter. These include:
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· Alcohol
· Tobacco Products (cigarettes)
· Lottery Tickets
· Pet Food
· Vitamins, Supplements, and Medicines
· Household Cleaners and Supplies
· Prepared Hot Meals (unless in a participating RMP state)
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· Personal Care Items (soap, shampoo, cosmetics)
· Paper Products
These items are not considered food items and are therefore ineligible for SNAP purchases.
Finding Ampm Locations Accepting EBT Cards
There are several ways to find Ampm locations that accept EBT cards:
· USDA Retailer Locator: This online tool allows you to search for SNAP-authorized retailers in your area, including Ampm stores. https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/retailer
· Ampm Store Locator: Use the Ampm website or app to find stores near you and check if they accept EBT cards (look for a filter option in the amenity section). https://www.ampm.com/storelocator
· Contact Your Local Ampm Store: You can call your local Ampm store directly to confirm their EBT card acceptance policy.
Using Your EBT Card at Ampm
Using your EBT card at Ampm is similar to using a debit card at any grocery store:
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1. Separate your SNAP-eligible items from any ineligible items at checkout.
2. Swipe or insert your EBT card at the point of sale.
3. Enter your PIN when prompted.
4. Inform the cashier if you want to use your SNAP benefits or cash for the purchase.
5. Review the purchase amount and confirm it’s correct.
6. Re-enter your PIN to complete the transaction.
Remember to keep your receipt for your records and to track your SNAP balance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use my EBT card to order groceries online at Ampm?
No, Ampm currently does not participate in the SNAP Online Purchasing Pilot Program. You cannot use your EBT card to buy groceries online from Ampm.
What are some alternative stores to Ampm that accept EBT cards?
Many major grocery store chains, discount stores, and even some online retailers accept EBT cards. Here are a few examples:
· Target
· Walmart
· Amazon (for online grocery shopping with Instacart delivery fees covered by another payment method)
· Aldi
· Trader Joe’s
· Circle K
How can I learn more about the SNAP program?
You can visit the official SNAP website for more information on eligibility, benefits, and approved food items: https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program
Where can I use my EBT card in California?
You can use your EBT card at any store that displays the EBT logo or advertises that they accept EBT cards. Here are some resources to help you find locations:
· USDA Retailer Locator: https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/retailer
· California Department of Social Services (CDSS): https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/sdc/hhsa/programs/ssp/food_stamps.html (Search for “EBT vendor”)
Can you buy hot food with EBT in California?
Yes, in California, you can potentially use your EBT card to purchase hot prepared meals if the store participates in the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP). Currently, California is one of the states participating in this program. Look for stores that display the RMP logo alongside the EBT logo.
Is SNAP and EBT the same thing in California?
Yes, SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) and EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) are essentially the same thing in California. SNAP is the federal program that provides food assistance benefits, and EBT is the electronic card used to access those benefits at authorized retailers.
Why are tea bags not covered by EBT?
Tea bags are generally not considered a staple food item under SNAP guidelines. The program focuses on providing assistance for purchasing essential food groups like fruits, vegetables, grains, protein sources, and dairy products.
Do gas stations like Arco, 7-Eleven, Circle K, and Chevron accept EBT cards in California?
In California, some gas stations may accept EBT cards, but it depends on the specific store. Here’s how to determine if a gas station accepts EBT:
· Look for the EBT logo: If a gas station displays the EBT logo at the entrance or checkout area, it signifies they accept EBT cards for authorized food purchases.
· Check online store locators: Utilize the USDA Retailer Locator (https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/retailer) or the California Department of Social Services website (https://benefitsexplorer.com/ebt-stores/california/san-diego) to search for EBT-authorized retailers in your area, including gas stations.
· Contact the store directly: If you’re unsure about a particular gas station’s policy, it’s best to call them directly to confirm if they accept EBT cards.
Important to Note:
· Even if a gas station accepts EBT, they may only allow purchases for approved SNAP food items, typically excluding gasoline itself.
