How to Use SNAP Benefits 

Once you get approved for SNAP, you'll get an EBT card. This card works like a debit card and is how you'll pay for your groceries.

Where Can You Use Your EBT Card?

You can use your EBT card at almost any grocery store or place that sells food. Look for signs with a "Quest" or "EBT" logo.

Want to find stores near you that accept SNAP? You can type your zip code into the retailer locator. You can also use your EBT card to buy groceries online, Find SNAP-approved online retailers on the SNAP Online Purchasing list.

When Will Your SNAP Benefits Be Ready?

After your SNAP application is approved, your benefits will be automatically added to your EBT card.

To check your balance or find out how much money you have on your EBT card, or if you have questions about using it, you can:

  • Use the ConnectEBT mobile app on your phone.
  • Log in to your account at connectebt.com.
  • Call the Horizon Card Helpdesk at 1-800-997-4444.

Each month that you are approved for SNAP, your benefits will be put on your card on a specific day, based on the first letter of your last name:

  • If your last name starts with A - G, your benefits will be available on the 5th of the month.
  • If your last name starts with H - O, your benefits will be available on the 11th of the month.
  • If your last name starts with P - Z, your benefits will be available on the 15th of the month.

How to Make a Purchase with Your EBT Card

  • At the checkout, choose "EBT" on the machine or tell the cashier you're using your food SNAP EBT account.
  • Swipe your EBT card.
  • Enter your PIN (Personal Identification Number). Always cover the keypad when you type in your PIN so no one can see it.
  • When the correct amount shows up on the screen, press "OK."

Important Things to Know About Your EBT Card

  • Check your past purchases: You can see your last two months of spending by:

Returning Items You Bought with SNAP

If you buy food with your EBT card and need to return it, you can get your money back. However, the money must go back onto your EBT card. Stores cannot give you cash back or gift cards for SNAP returns.

When you return items bought with SNAP at a regular store:

  • You can only make one return per day.
  • The money you get back for the return can't be more than what you originally paid.
  • Each return can only be for a maximum of $75.
  • You can't return more than $200 worth of items in a month.

There are no limits on returns for items you bought online. Online returns must match the original purchase amount.

If you have a problem with a transaction (like a charge that doesn't look right), you need to tell the Horizon EBT Help Desk. You can call 1-800-997-4444, visit connectebt.com, or use the connectEBT mobile app.

Additional Information

  • Your Receipt: The store is required to give you a receipt for every purchase. It should show the store's name and location, the transaction type and amount, and your remaining SNAP balance.
  • Purchase Limits: There is no minimum dollar amount per transaction you have to spend. There is also no limit on how many purchases you can make.

Transaction Fees: You will never be charged a fee for making a purchase with your SNAP benefits.

EBT Basic Instructions