If you’re on a budget and love crafts, you might be wondering if you can use your EBT card at Michaels, the giant craft store. EBT, or Electronic Benefit Transfer, is a way for people to get food assistance benefits. So, when you want to buy art supplies or other crafting goodies, can you use your EBT card to pay? Let’s find out what the deal is with Michaels and EBT.
The Basics of EBT and Michaels
Let’s get straight to the point: No, Michaels does not accept EBT cards. That means you can’t use your food stamps to buy paint, yarn, or anything else at Michaels stores. The reason is pretty simple: EBT cards are usually designed for purchasing specific food items. Michaels, while selling some things that *could* be related to food (like baking supplies), mainly focuses on crafts and art supplies, which are not typically covered by food assistance programs.
What EBT Typically Covers
EBT cards are generally designed to help families and individuals buy groceries. This means they are accepted at supermarkets, grocery stores, and some farmers’ markets. The items you can purchase are usually things like:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Dairy products
- Breads and cereals
- Other food items (snacks, etc.)
The goal is to ensure that people can afford to eat nutritious meals. Items like craft supplies, even if they could be used to make food, aren’t the primary purpose of food assistance programs, so they aren’t usually eligible for purchase with EBT.
Alternatives for Craft Supplies
Even though you can’t use EBT at Michaels, there are still ways to get craft supplies if you’re on a tight budget. You could explore some other options. One of these options is to look for stores that accept coupons or sales to lower the price of your items. Another is to use the internet to check for a variety of deals at once. These tactics can all help to lower the price of the crafts.
Thrift stores and dollar stores often have craft supplies, sometimes even brand-new ones, for very low prices. They might not have the same selection as Michaels, but you could find some cool items at great prices.
- Thrift Stores: Always a good bet for used craft supplies.
- Dollar Stores: Excellent for basics like glue, paper, and some craft kits.
- Online Marketplaces: Can find deals from sellers.
You could also try to make your own crafts using things you already have at home like cardboard boxes or newspaper. This can be a fun way to be creative without spending any money!
Government Programs and Assistance
It’s important to know that EBT isn’t the only government program that can provide assistance. There are other support systems that may offer help with specific needs. This could include things like programs that help low-income families get free school supplies, or if you have a child, some programs might offer art classes or creative workshops.
Sometimes, local community centers will also offer free or low-cost art classes. You could be able to learn new skills and meet new people at the same time!
Here’s a quick look at potential resources:
- Local Community Centers: Check for free or low-cost classes.
- Schools: Some schools may offer free art supplies.
- Non-profits: Many non-profit organizations can help find the resources that are right for you.
It’s always worth it to explore these options to see what resources might be available.
Other Options for Discounts at Michaels
Even though EBT isn’t accepted, there are still ways to save money at Michaels! Michaels frequently has sales, especially on seasonal items. You can often find great deals on things like holiday decorations or craft kits.
Michaels also has coupons! You can sign up for their email list to get coupons sent directly to your inbox. You can also often find coupons online from places like retailmenot.com. Also, be sure to check your local newspaper for flyers that might have Michaels coupons.
| Type of Discount | How to Find It |
|---|---|
| Sales | Check store flyers and website. |
| Coupons | Sign up for email, check online, check newspaper. |
Another tip: sometimes, Michaels offers discounts for specific groups, like teachers or members of the military. You’ll have to ask your local store for the specific details. It’s always worth asking if you qualify for any special offers!
Conclusion
In short, while you can’t use your EBT card directly at Michaels, there are plenty of other options to consider when buying craft supplies. Remember to look for sales, use coupons, and check out thrift stores or dollar stores. Also, don’t forget about community resources that might provide art classes or free supplies. Happy crafting!