If you’re getting ready for a road trip or just need a quick snack, you might be wondering if your EBT card, which helps you buy food, will work at Speedway gas stations. Speedway is a super common convenience store, and lots of people depend on EBT benefits to get groceries. Let’s dive in and find out what you need to know about using your EBT card at Speedway.
Does Speedway Take EBT at All Locations?
Yes, Speedway does accept EBT cards. However, it’s not always a simple yes, especially when it comes to figuring out exactly what you can buy.
What Can You Buy with EBT at Speedway?
The things you can purchase with your EBT card at Speedway are the same as what you can buy in a grocery store. This means that you can buy qualifying food items. This usually means items without the label “non-food”.
Here are some examples of what your EBT card will cover:
- Breads
- Cereals
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Meats
- Dairy Products
- Snack Foods
- Non-alcoholic beverages
It’s important to note that this is not a complete list. Always check the item to make sure it is a qualifying food item.
Things that you can’t buy with EBT include:
- Alcohol
- Tobacco
- Hot Foods
- Gas
- Household Supplies
- Hygiene products
How Does Using EBT Work at Speedway?
The process of using your EBT card at Speedway is similar to using a debit or credit card. When you’re ready to pay, just let the cashier know you’ll be using your EBT card. They will then swipe or insert your card into the payment terminal.
You will need to enter your PIN, which is a secret number that protects your account. This PIN is the same one you use to access your funds at an ATM. Make sure you don’t share your PIN with anyone!
After you enter your PIN, the terminal will process your payment. The amount of your purchase will be deducted from your EBT balance, and you’ll receive a receipt. Any items that do not qualify must be purchased with a different form of payment.
Here’s a simple breakdown of the steps:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Select your items |
| 2 | Go to the checkout |
| 3 | Tell the cashier you are paying with EBT |
| 4 | Insert/Swipe your EBT card |
| 5 | Enter your PIN |
| 6 | Review your receipt |
What about Hot Foods at Speedway?
Generally, you can’t use your EBT card to buy hot foods at Speedway. Hot foods are defined as anything that is heated up for you to eat immediately. This might include hot sandwiches, pre-made pizza slices, or anything else that is prepared to eat right away.
However, there are some exceptions. Some states and programs might allow the purchase of hot foods under certain circumstances, like in the case of a disaster or emergency. However, for the most part, hot foods are not covered.
It’s always a good idea to check the specific guidelines for your state’s EBT program to make sure you understand what is and isn’t allowed.
Here are some examples of items which would be considered hot food:
- Hot Dogs
- Coffee
- Pizza
- Pre-made sandwiches that are heated
- Soup
Even if you can’t buy hot foods, you can still purchase many other food items at Speedway with your EBT card, like cold sandwiches, chips, and cold beverages.
Can You Pay for Gas with EBT at Speedway?
No, you cannot pay for gasoline with your EBT card at Speedway. EBT benefits are specifically for purchasing food items. Gas is considered a non-food item, so you’ll need to use another form of payment, like cash, a debit card, or a credit card to buy gas.
Speedway’s gas pumps don’t have the ability to process EBT transactions for fuel purchases. This is the same for most other convenience stores.
If you’re buying gas and food items, you’ll need to separate your purchases. You can use your EBT card for the eligible food items and then pay for the gas separately using a different method.
- Pay for food with EBT
- Pay for gas with a credit card or cash
This is a pretty standard procedure at all gas stations and convenience stores that accept EBT.
Are There Any Limitations to Using EBT at Speedway?
While Speedway accepts EBT, there can be some limitations to keep in mind. For example, the selection of food items available at a Speedway may be smaller than what you find at a regular grocery store. This can sometimes make it harder to find everything you need.
Also, you might encounter different pricing compared to a larger grocery store. Prices at convenience stores are often a little higher than at bigger supermarkets.
It’s important to compare prices and consider your options when shopping at Speedway.
Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Limited Selection
- Higher Prices
- Restricted Items
However, for quick stops and emergencies, Speedway can be a useful option.
Does Speedway Have Any Special EBT Programs or Discounts?
As of now, Speedway doesn’t have any specific EBT-related programs or discounts. Many grocery stores have programs for EBT users, like double-up food bucks, but Speedway doesn’t usually offer any extra savings.
However, Speedway sometimes offers promotions or discounts on certain items, which everyone can take advantage of. So, it’s worth keeping an eye out for those deals.
It’s always a good idea to check for any in-store signs or ask the cashier about current promotions. Sometimes, Speedway might have a promotion going on with certain snack foods or drinks, so you may still find some savings. Here are some things to look for when at Speedway:
| Promotion | Description |
|---|---|
| Buy One, Get One | Purchase one item and get another free. |
| Bundled Deals | Purchase a set of items and get a discount. |
Keep your eyes open for these types of promotions!
Conclusion
In conclusion, yes, Speedway does accept EBT cards, making it a convenient option for those who rely on food assistance. You can purchase qualifying food items with your EBT card, just like at a regular grocery store. However, you can’t use EBT to buy hot foods or gas. Remember to always check your receipt and understand your state’s EBT rules to make sure you’re following the guidelines. By knowing how EBT works at Speedway, you can make smart choices and manage your food budget effectively.