Shopping on a budget is a real thing, right? Whether you’re trying to save up for a new video game or just being smart with your money, finding deals is important. That’s why stores like 5 Below are so popular! They have tons of cool stuff for, you guessed it, five dollars or less. But if you’re using EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) to help pay for groceries or other essentials, you might be wondering: Does 5 Below accept EBT? Let’s dive in and find out!
The Quick Answer: EBT at 5 Below
So, the big question: **Does 5 Below accept EBT?** The answer isn’t as simple as a yes or no because it depends on where you live and what you’re trying to buy. EBT cards can generally be used at places that sell food items approved by the SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program). 5 Below, however, isn’t a grocery store, and the items they sell are typically non-food items. Because of this, most of the time, 5 Below stores do not accept EBT cards.
What Kind of Stuff Does 5 Below Sell?
5 Below is all about fun and affordable finds. They sell everything from toys and games to room decor and even some snacks and drinks. You can find things like phone cases, beauty products, and workout gear, too! It’s a great place to browse and find unique items. The goal is to keep everything at $5 or less, making it a great option for bargain hunters. That doesn’t always mean it will work out for what you need it for, though.
Here’s a breakdown of some of the popular categories you’ll discover at 5 Below:
- Toys and Games
- Tech Accessories
- Home Decor
- Beauty and Personal Care
These types of items are generally not covered by EBT. As you can probably tell, the majority of products won’t be items you can purchase with EBT.
What Can You Buy with EBT?
EBT cards are designed to help people purchase food items. This usually means groceries like fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy, and bread. The SNAP program has rules about what you can and can’t buy. Prepared foods, alcohol, and things like pet food are generally not eligible for EBT purchases. This ensures that the benefits are used for essential food items that support a healthy diet. You can see why the items sold at 5 Below probably won’t work with your EBT card.
Here’s a quick rundown of what’s typically eligible for EBT:
- Fruits and Vegetables
- Meat, Poultry, and Fish
- Dairy Products
- Breads and Cereals
- Seeds and Plants (to grow food)
This list is pretty specific, and it really does help families out when they need to buy groceries. EBT is designed to support people’s nutrition needs. So, the focus remains on those fundamental food needs.
The Exception: Sometimes Snacks are Allowed
Although 5 Below’s focus isn’t on groceries, some stores might sell a limited selection of snacks and drinks that could be EBT-eligible. Think things like packaged chips, cookies, or sodas. However, even if they sell these items, it doesn’t automatically mean they accept EBT. The store needs to have the proper setup and authorization to process those transactions. This isn’t the norm, though, so don’t count on it.
The availability of EBT-eligible snacks varies a lot. It depends on factors like the specific store’s management and what they choose to carry. It is best to check with the store before you start filling your basket, to make sure that you don’t need to put things back.
| EBT Eligibility | Examples |
|---|---|
| Potentially Eligible | Packaged snacks (chips, cookies), Drinks (soda) |
| Likely Not Eligible | Toys, Tech, Decor, Clothing |
Always check in-store to determine which items are approved before purchasing!
Checking if a Specific 5 Below Accepts EBT
The best way to know for sure if a specific 5 Below store accepts EBT is to ask! You can either call the store directly or go in person and ask a cashier. They can give you a definite answer. If you’re planning a shopping trip, it’s always a good idea to double-check before you get your hopes up or gather a bunch of items you can’t pay for. Calling ahead can save you a lot of time and possible disappointment.
You could also check online. A quick search for the specific 5 Below store’s location plus “EBT” might turn up some helpful information, or the company website may give you the information that you need. Remember, store policies can change, so a phone call is always a good idea. If you can’t reach them, and you are going to the store, it is best to bring another form of payment, just in case.
- Call the store directly.
- Ask a cashier in person.
- Check the store’s website.
- Search online forums for information.
These simple steps can prevent shopping frustrations. It’s important to prepare ahead.
Alternatives for EBT Shopping
If 5 Below doesn’t accept EBT for the items you need, don’t worry! There are plenty of other options for shopping with your EBT card. Grocery stores are the obvious choice, but many discount stores like Walmart and Target also accept EBT for eligible food purchases. These stores often have a wider selection of groceries and household essentials. Remember to check the store’s policy before shopping.
Other possibilities include farmers’ markets, which may offer EBT acceptance. Some local programs provide extra benefits for using EBT at farmers’ markets. The federal government’s website can help you find the place that accepts EBT cards to use around you. You can also use your card for home food delivery services.
- Grocery Stores (Walmart, Target, etc.)
- Farmers’ Markets
- Online Grocery Delivery Services
There are always places to shop that will take EBT cards, no matter where you’re located.
The Bottom Line
So, can you use your EBT card at 5 Below? Generally, the answer is no, because of the types of products they sell. However, it’s always a good idea to double-check with your local store, as policies can vary. If you are looking to use EBT, shopping for groceries at dedicated grocery stores or other stores that sell food is probably the best way to go! Happy shopping!