Grocery shopping on a budget is important for many families. If you’re someone who uses EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) cards, you might be wondering if you can use them at stores like the 99 Cent Store. This essay will explore the question, “Does 99 Cent Store take EBT?” We’ll break down how it works, what you can buy, and some things to keep in mind when you shop.
Does 99 Cent Store Accept EBT? The Simple Answer
So, the big question: **Does 99 Cent Store take EBT?**
Yes, the 99 Cent Store usually accepts EBT cards at most of their locations. This means if you have an EBT card, you can use it to buy eligible food items at these stores. However, it’s always a good idea to double-check with your local store to be absolutely sure, especially since policies can sometimes vary.
What Can I Buy with My EBT Card at the 99 Cent Store?
Understanding what you can purchase with your EBT card is super important! Generally, EBT cards are for buying food, just like groceries. The 99 Cent Store carries lots of food items, which means you can likely use your EBT card to purchase many of them. This can include things like fresh produce, canned goods, and snacks.
Here are some examples of things you can generally buy with your EBT card at the 99 Cent Store:
- Fruits and vegetables (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- Breads, cereals, and grains
- Meats, poultry, and fish
- Dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt)
- Snacks like chips and cookies (as long as they’re eligible)
It’s good to know that there are some items your EBT card cannot be used for. These usually include non-food items.
Remember, it’s crucial to separate the items that are eligible from those that are not. These items can be differentiated by the POS system at checkout.
Non-Food Items and EBT: What’s the Deal?
The 99 Cent Store also sells a variety of non-food items like household supplies, toys, and personal care products. These items are usually *not* eligible for purchase with your EBT card. This can be tricky because sometimes you might have food and non-food items in your basket at the same time.
To avoid any confusion at checkout, make sure you understand what items your EBT card can pay for. If you’re buying a mix of food and non-food items, you’ll have to pay for the non-food items with cash or another form of payment.
Here’s a quick table to show the difference:
| EBT Eligible | Not EBT Eligible |
|---|---|
| Apples | Shampoo |
| Canned Beans | Toys |
| Milk | Cleaning Supplies |
The cashier will ring up your items separately, so that you can use your EBT card only for the eligible items.
Checking Out with EBT at the 99 Cent Store
Paying with your EBT card at the 99 Cent Store is generally a straightforward process. At the checkout, you’ll typically swipe your card just like you would with a debit card. You’ll then enter your PIN to authorize the transaction.
The cashier will process your food purchases, and you will need to pay for the non-food items using another payment method. Make sure you are paying attention during checkout so you know what’s being paid for with your EBT card, and what is not.
Here are a few simple steps:
- Gather your groceries.
- Go to the checkout lane.
- When prompted, swipe your EBT card.
- Enter your PIN.
- Pay for any non-food items with cash or another card.
If you have any issues or questions during checkout, the cashier is there to assist you.
Other Things to Consider when Using EBT at the 99 Cent Store
Shopping at the 99 Cent Store with EBT can be a smart way to save money on groceries. But, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, prices can change, so what was available at a certain price last week might be different this week. Always check prices before you put items in your basket.
Also, it’s a good idea to check the expiration dates on food items before you buy them. Since items are sold at lower prices, you want to make sure you will use them before they expire. This can help you avoid wasting food.
Consider doing this before you make your purchase:
- Check the dates.
- Make a list.
- Compare prices.
Lastly, your EBT benefits have a set amount of funds each month. You’ll need to plan your shopping trips to stay within your budget.
Using your EBT card at the 99 Cent Store offers a great way to make your money go further when shopping for groceries. While policies can change and items that are eligible for purchase vary, the store makes it easy to shop when using EBT.