You’re probably wondering if you can use your EBT card at Five Below. It’s a super popular store filled with cool stuff, from snacks to toys to home goods, all for just $5 or less! If you’re getting help with food from the government, you might be thinking if you can buy some of that stuff with your EBT card. Let’s dive in and find out the answer to the big question: Does Five Below accept EBT?
The Short Answer: Does Five Below Accept EBT?
No, Five Below does not accept EBT cards. The store primarily sells non-food items, like toys, clothes, and home goods. Since EBT cards are typically used for purchasing food items, and Five Below doesn’t focus on groceries, you can’t use your EBT card there.
What Can You Buy with EBT?
EBT cards, which stands for Electronic Benefit Transfer, are usually used to buy certain types of food. It works like a debit card, but the money comes from government assistance programs, like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program). The rules about what you can and can’t buy with EBT can be different depending on the state and program, but in general, you can purchase things like groceries.
Here are some things you *can* typically buy with EBT:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt)
- Breads and cereals
- Non-alcoholic beverages
Remember, not all food is covered. Prepared foods, hot foods, and things like alcohol, tobacco, and pet food usually aren’t allowed.
One important thing to note is that while you can buy food with your EBT card, the rules can sometimes change. It’s always a good idea to double-check the latest rules in your specific state or contact your local social services office if you have any questions about eligible items.
Why Doesn’t Five Below Take EBT?
Five Below’s business model is built around selling a wide variety of trendy, inexpensive items, most of which are not considered eligible for EBT purchases. Think about the things they sell: fun gadgets, cool decorations, and school supplies. These are generally not the types of items that government assistance programs are designed to cover.
The stores themselves would need to go through a process of registering with the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture), the agency that oversees SNAP, to be able to accept EBT. This process can require changes to their payment systems, how they handle different types of goods, and accounting practices.
Moreover, most of Five Below’s products just don’t fit the requirements. Even if they sold some snack items, like chips or candy, the primary focus is always on those other things that are not covered by EBT.
In short, it’s a combination of not primarily selling eligible items and the logistical challenges of accepting EBT payments that leads to Five Below not accepting EBT cards.
Stores That Do Accept EBT
Lots of stores accept EBT cards. The most obvious ones are grocery stores like Walmart, Kroger, and local supermarkets. These stores have a wide selection of food items that are eligible for purchase with EBT. You can buy pretty much everything you need there.
Also, many farmers’ markets and some convenience stores also accept EBT, especially in urban or low-income areas. These places are designed to help people buy fresh, healthy food.
Here’s a table of some common stores that take EBT:
| Store Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Grocery Stores | Walmart, Kroger, Safeway, local supermarkets |
| Convenience Stores | 7-Eleven (in some locations), other local stores |
| Farmers’ Markets | Many local farmers’ markets |
If you’re unsure whether a store accepts EBT, just look for a sign that says they accept EBT cards at checkout.
Alternatives for Shopping at Five Below
So, if you can’t use EBT at Five Below, what are your options? Well, if you have access to other funds, like cash or a different debit card, that’s one way to shop there. You can also ask a friend or family member to go with you and pay if they are willing to.
Another option is to plan your shopping trips strategically. Since Five Below has a lot of fun and affordable items, you can save it for a special occasion. Maybe you’re looking for birthday party favors, or a cool gift for a friend. In that case, you could use cash that you’ve saved or other funds.
You could create a budget and set aside some money each month specifically for shopping at stores like Five Below. This is a good strategy to help manage your finances and plan for non-essential purchases.
Here is a short list of things you could do:
- Use cash or a debit card.
- Ask a friend or family member to pay.
- Budget and save money specifically for Five Below purchases.
- Shop at Five Below for special occasions.
What About Food Items at Five Below?
Sometimes, Five Below does sell a small selection of snacks and food items, like candy or chips. These products aren’t the store’s primary focus, but they can be found. However, they are not usually covered by EBT.
The items sold can vary by location and time of year. If you really want to buy a snack, you should keep in mind that you would have to pay for those items using cash or a different form of payment. Also, the selection of food items at Five Below is generally very limited, so if you’re looking for a wide variety, you’re better off going to a grocery store.
It’s useful to consider the types of foods that are and aren’t eligible for purchase. Remember that EBT cards are primarily designed to help with food items and groceries. However, depending on your location and situation, you might be able to get benefits specifically for snacks. In any case, Five Below’s food items aren’t usually a reason to visit the store.
For those few food items that are for sale at Five Below, remember that they still won’t be eligible for purchase with your EBT card.
Future Possibilities for EBT at Five Below
Who knows what the future holds? While Five Below currently doesn’t accept EBT, it’s possible that the store could change its policies in the future. Maybe they would start carrying a more significant range of food products. Then, they might register to accept EBT.
Another thing that could lead to changes would be government regulations. As programs like SNAP change, there could be adjustments in how businesses are required to handle payments. If the rules change, it could make it easier for stores like Five Below to accept EBT.
But for now, don’t count on it. You’ll be disappointed if you expect to use your EBT card there.
Keep your eye out, though. Here are some of the possible changes:
- Five Below expands its food offerings.
- Government regulations change.
- The company makes a business decision.
Until something changes, plan on paying for your Five Below purchases with other payment options.
Conclusion
So, to wrap things up: Does Five Below accept EBT? Unfortunately, the answer is no. The store primarily sells non-food items. If you’re looking for a fun shopping experience, be sure to bring another form of payment. Now you know the deal: while Five Below is a fun place to shop, remember to plan accordingly and bring some cash or a card if you want to check out those great deals!