Shopping at Five Below is like a treasure hunt! You can find super cool stuff for just a few bucks, from snacks to toys to room décor. But if you’re getting help with your groceries through EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer), you might be wondering, “Does Five Below take EBT?” This essay will dive into the answer and explore what you can actually buy at Five Below if you’re using your benefits.
The Simple Answer: Does Five Below Accept EBT?
No, Five Below does not accept EBT cards as a form of payment. This means you won’t be able to use your EBT benefits to purchase anything in their stores.
What Can You Buy with EBT?
Okay, so Five Below isn’t an option for EBT, but that doesn’t mean you can’t shop for essentials! EBT cards primarily cover “eligible food items” under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). These items are meant to help people buy the things they need to eat and prepare meals.
The definition of “eligible food items” can sometimes be tricky. Generally, it includes things like:
- Fruits and vegetables (fresh, frozen, canned)
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt)
- Breads and cereals
- Snack foods like chips and cookies
- Non-alcoholic beverages
However, there are some things that EBT *cannot* be used for. This is where the rules can get a little confusing.
- Alcoholic beverages
- Tobacco products
- Vitamins and supplements
- Non-food items like pet food and household supplies
- Prepared foods that are hot at the point of sale
Knowing the rules helps you budget your benefits effectively.
Where *Can* You Use Your EBT?
So, since Five Below doesn’t take EBT, where *can* you shop using your benefits? The good news is, lots of places accept EBT! You can usually use your card at grocery stores, supermarkets, and farmers’ markets.
Many large chain stores like Walmart and Target accept EBT. These stores have a wide variety of eligible items, making it easy to do your grocery shopping in one place. Local farmers’ markets are another great option. You can find fresh, seasonal produce there. Sometimes the markets will offer double-up programs, meaning if you use your EBT at the market, they will provide extra coupons for even more food.
Here is a small table showing where you might be able to use EBT:
| Type of Store | Examples |
|---|---|
| Grocery Stores | Kroger, Safeway, Publix |
| Supermarkets | Walmart, Target |
| Farmers’ Markets | Varies by location |
It’s always a good idea to confirm a store accepts EBT before you get to the checkout.
What About Other Budget-Friendly Stores?
Even though Five Below doesn’t take EBT, you still have lots of choices for budget-friendly shopping! Dollar stores, like Dollar General and Dollar Tree, are often popular options for finding household essentials and snacks at low prices. However, it’s essential to check if these stores in your area accept EBT, as policies can vary by location.
You can find some food items, like snacks or canned goods, at a dollar store. But remember, the selection may be more limited than at a regular grocery store. Dollar stores often have great deals on non-food items like cleaning supplies, which aren’t usually covered by EBT, but are still helpful for a household budget.
Another option to keep in mind is looking for sales and discounts at grocery stores. Many stores offer weekly specials, coupons, and loyalty programs that can help you save money on your groceries.
- Check for weekly ads
- Clip coupons, either paper or digital
- Look for store brand products, which are often cheaper
- Take advantage of loyalty programs
Planning Your Shopping Trip with EBT
Planning your shopping trip is super important when you’re using EBT! It helps you stay within your budget and make sure you have enough money to buy the things you need.
Before you head to the store, make a list of the groceries you need. Check your fridge and pantry, and try to plan meals for the week. This will help you avoid impulse purchases and stick to your budget.
Here is some advice for making a shopping list:
- Start with the basics: fruits, vegetables, protein, and grains.
- Check unit prices (the price per ounce or pound) to compare different brands.
- Look for sales and use coupons.
- Don’t forget about pantry staples like rice, beans, and pasta.
If you’re unsure about what’s covered by EBT, check the USDA’s website for more information.
By doing a little planning, you can use your EBT benefits to make sure you have healthy, affordable meals.
Conclusion
So, does Five Below take EBT? No, it does not. While you can’t use your EBT card to buy those fun Five Below finds, there are plenty of other places that do accept it, like grocery stores and farmers markets. By understanding the rules, planning your shopping trips, and knowing where to find the best deals, you can make the most of your EBT benefits and still enjoy a fun and affordable shopping experience for your everyday needs.