When you’re on a budget, finding affordable places to shop is super important. Five Below is a popular store known for its low prices, with everything usually costing $5 or less. If you’re using EBT, which is like a debit card for food assistance, you probably want to know if you can use it there. Let’s dive in and find out the answer to the big question: Does Five Below take EBT?
The Direct Answer: Can You Use EBT at Five Below?
The short answer is no; Five Below does not currently accept EBT cards. This means you can’t use your SNAP benefits to purchase items in their stores.
Why Doesn’t Five Below Accept EBT?
Five Below focuses on selling a wide variety of general merchandise, not just food. This is a key reason they haven’t set up the ability to accept EBT. SNAP, or the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, has specific rules about which retailers can participate.
One of the main rules is that the store has to sell a significant amount of eligible food items. Think groceries, snacks, and other food products. Five Below doesn’t primarily sell these types of items. They have a focus on entertainment, beauty, and school supplies.
In addition, setting up the EBT payment system can be complex and costly for businesses. It involves special equipment and training for employees. Since Five Below doesn’t focus on SNAP-eligible items, it may not be worth the investment for them.
So, what can you typically find in a Five Below store? Consider these common categories:
- Trendy tech accessories
- Fun party supplies
- Cool room décor
- Seasonal items, like back-to-school or holiday stuff
What Can You Buy with EBT?
Even though you can’t use your EBT card at Five Below, you can still use it at many other stores. EBT cards are primarily designed for purchasing food and groceries. This means you can use them at supermarkets, grocery stores, and farmers markets that accept EBT.
The specific rules vary by state, but generally, your EBT card can be used to purchase a wide range of food items. These include things like fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, and breads. Also, certain types of seeds and plants to grow your own food are often eligible.
There are some items that aren’t covered by EBT. For example, you can’t buy alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, or non-food items like household supplies with your EBT card. Always check the store’s policy about what items are eligible for purchase.
Here is a quick guide to some common EBT-eligible items:
- Fruits and Vegetables
- Meat, Poultry, and Fish
- Dairy Products (milk, cheese, etc.)
- Breads and Cereals
Alternative Shopping Options for Your SNAP Benefits
If you want to use your EBT benefits, there are plenty of other shopping options available. Major grocery store chains are always a safe bet and fully support the use of EBT cards.
Many smaller grocery stores also accept EBT, especially those located in areas with a lot of SNAP recipients. It’s a good idea to call ahead or check signs at the store to confirm if they take EBT.
Another option is to look for farmers markets in your area. Many farmers markets are authorized to accept EBT. This is a great way to get fresh, locally grown produce. You can often find information about participating farmers markets online.
Check out this simple table to compare the options:
| Store Type | EBT Acceptance? |
|---|---|
| Large Grocery Chains | Yes |
| Small Grocery Stores | Often Yes |
| Farmers Markets | Many accept |
| Five Below | No |
Staying Informed About EBT Policies
Rules and regulations for EBT can sometimes change. That’s why it’s important to stay updated on the latest policies. State and federal governments can update policies.
You can always find the most current information by visiting your state’s social services website. There you can find an official list of stores accepting EBT.
Another good source of information is the USDA Food and Nutrition Service website. They provide a lot of details about the SNAP program and other food assistance programs.
Staying in the loop about any changes can help you plan your shopping and make the best use of your benefits. If you’re not sure, don’t be afraid to ask! Contact the store beforehand to see if they have any current changes.
Making the Most of Your Budget
Knowing the stores where you can and can’t use EBT is a critical part of budgeting. While Five Below is fun, you can still find affordable and fun items. It’s just a matter of being informed and planning ahead.
You can still make the most of your budget by planning your shopping trips. Create a shopping list, compare prices, and look for sales and discounts to maximize your money.
When shopping for groceries with EBT, don’t be afraid to try different stores to see where you can find the best deals. Consider the different types of food you buy and try to buy things that can be eaten over a period of time.
Here are some budget-friendly shopping tips:
- Shop around at different stores
- Check for sales and coupons
- Buy store brands, which are usually cheaper than name brands
- Plan your meals for the week
By knowing what stores accept EBT and by planning your shopping, you can still find great deals and stretch your budget further.