How to Use Your Ohio EBT Food Stamp Card

The Ohio EBT food stamp program is administered by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services. eligible residents who meet the program’s income guidelines receive a card, which is loaded with money each month to be used for groceries at participating stores. Food stamps can be used to purchase grocery items including fresh fruits and vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, cereal, bread and other bakery items, non-alcoholic beverages and more.

To use your food stamp card, simply swipe it at the participating store’s checkout lane. The card will be accepted as payment for eligible items up to the amount of money that is available on the card. If you try to purchase an ineligible item with your food stamp card, or if you attempt to purchase an eligible item for more than the amount of money available on the card, your transaction will be declined.

It is important to remember that food stamps cannot be used to purchase alcohol, tobacco products, pet food or hot foods that are ready to eat. For a complete list of ineligible items, please visit the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services website.

What is an EBT Card?

An EBT Card, or Electronic Benefits Transfer card, is a card that is used to access benefits such as food stamps or cash assistance. The card can be used at any store that accepts EBT payments. In order to use the card, you will need to create an account and activate the card. Once the card is activated, you can use it to shop for groceries and other items.

How to Use Your EBT Card at a Store

If you are a recipient of the Ohio food stamp program, you will be issued an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card. This card can be used like a debit card at any store that accepts EBT cards. When you use your EBT card, the amount of your purchase will be deducted from your food stamp balance.

To use your EBT card, simply swipe it at the point of purchase. You may be asked to enter your Personal Identification Number (PIN) for verification. Once your purchase is complete, the receipt will show how much money you have left in your food stamp balance.

It is important to know that you cannot get cash back when you use your EBT card. If you try to get cash back, the transaction will be declined.

How to Use Your EBT Card Online

If you have an Ohio EBT card, you can use it to purchase groceries online at select retailers. To use your card online, you’ll first need to create an account with the retailer and then add your EBT card as a payment method. Once your account is set up, you’ll be able to shop for groceries and pay with your EBT card just like you would at a traditional brick-and-mortar store.

How to Check Your EBT Card Balance

To check the balance on your EBT card, you can do one of the following:
-Check your balance online at https://www.ebt.ohio.gov
-Call the customer service number on the back of your card
-Check your balance at an ATM (if your card is linked to a checking account)

If you need help reading or understanding your balance, please call the customer service number on the back of your card.

What to do if You Lose Your EBT Card

If you lose your EBT card, you should call the customer service number on the back of your card right away. The customer service representative will cancel your old card and arrange for a new one to be sent to you. In the meantime, you can use a paper voucher to purchase food.

How to Get a Replacement EBT Card

If you lose your EBT card or it is stolen, you can get a replacement card by calling the customer service number on the back of your card. You will need to have your sixteen-digit EBT number and your four-digit Personal Identification Number (PIN) ready when you call. A customer service representative will verify your identity and then order a new card for you. The new card will be mailed to the address on file for your household.

What to do if Your EBT Card is Stolen

If your EBT card is stolen, you should report it to the customer service number as soon as possible. The customer service number is 1-866-386-3071. Once you report the card as stolen, the card will be deactivated and a new card will be sent to you.

How to Use Your EBT Card at an ATM

To use your EBT card at an ATM, you will need to find an ATM that is affiliated with your EBT card provider. Once you have found an affiliated ATM, insert your EBT card into the ATM and enter your PIN. From there, you will be able to withdraw cash from your EBT account.

Frequently Asked Questions About EBT Cards

Below are some frequently asked questions about EBT cards. If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact your caseworker.

What is an EBT card?

EBT stands for Electronic Benefits Transfer. An EBT card is a plastic card that looks and functions like a debit card. You can use your EBT card to purchase food at participating retailers.

How do I get an EBT card?

If you are eligible for food benefits, you will be issued an EBT card. You will receive a letter in the mail with instructions on how to activate your card. Once your card is activated, you can start using it right away.

How do I use my EBT card?

To use your EBT card, simply swipe it at the checkout when you are purchasing food items at a participating retailer. You may be asked to enter your PIN (personal identification number) for certain transactions. Be sure to keep your PIN confidential – do not write it down or share it with anyone else. If you forget your PIN, you can call customer service to have it reset.

What can I purchase with my EBT card?

You can use your EBT card to purchase food items such as fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, poultry, dairy products, and non-alcoholic beverages. You cannot use your EBT card to purchase non-food items such as cigarettes, alcohol, paper products, pet food, or cleaning supplies. Additionally, some retailers may not accept EBT cards for the purchase of hot foods or food that will be consumed on premises (such as restaurant meals).

How to Use Your Ohio EBT Food Stamp Card