Going shopping at stores like 5 Below can be a blast! They have tons of cool stuff, all for, well, $5 or less. But when you’re at the checkout, how do you actually pay? If you’re getting help with groceries or other necessities through EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer), you might be wondering: Does 5 Below take EBT? Let’s dive in and find out everything you need to know.
Does 5 Below Accept EBT?
No, unfortunately, 5 Below does not accept EBT cards. They don’t sell food items, so they do not qualify to accept this form of payment. This means you’ll need to use a different payment method when you shop there.
Why Doesn’t 5 Below Accept EBT?
The main reason 5 Below doesn’t take EBT is because of what they sell. EBT is primarily designed for food assistance programs like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program). Stores need to meet certain requirements to accept EBT, and this usually involves selling eligible food items.
Think of it this way: if you’re getting help to buy food, you wouldn’t typically use that same money to buy, say, a new phone case or a cool toy. EBT is meant for specific items. 5 Below focuses on non-food items, meaning they don’t qualify for EBT acceptance.
There are specific rules that retailers must follow if they want to accept EBT. These include things like having a way to process the EBT card, reporting sales to the government, and only selling eligible items.
Here are some examples of items you *can’t* buy with EBT at eligible stores:
- Alcoholic beverages
- Tobacco products
- Vitamins and supplements
- Non-food items, like clothing
What Payment Methods Does 5 Below Accept?
So, if you can’t use EBT, what *can* you use at 5 Below? The good news is, they take several other common forms of payment. Knowing these options helps you plan your shopping trip.
5 Below accepts most major credit cards, like Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. They also take debit cards, so you can use money directly from your bank account.
Many stores also accept gift cards. You could potentially buy a 5 Below gift card with cash or a different card and then use the gift card to make a purchase. It’s always a good idea to check at your local store for their current gift card policies.
They also often accept cash! Here’s a simple breakdown:
- Credit Cards
- Debit Cards
- Gift Cards
- Cash
What Can You Buy With EBT?
Even though 5 Below doesn’t accept EBT, it’s still important to know what you *can* buy with it. EBT is generally used for buying food items that are considered essential for a healthy diet.
This usually includes things like fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, and grains. Some states also allow EBT to be used for seeds and plants to grow your own food.
Remember, specific rules can vary by state, so it’s always a good idea to check your local EBT guidelines for the most accurate information. For example, in some states, you might be able to use EBT at farmers markets.
Here’s a quick table showing the main categories of eligible food items:
| Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Fruits and Vegetables | Apples, carrots, lettuce |
| Meat, Poultry, and Fish | Chicken, beef, salmon |
| Dairy | Milk, cheese, yogurt |
| Grains | Bread, rice, pasta |
Where Can You Use EBT?
Finding places that do accept EBT is key to using your benefits. Most major grocery stores accept EBT. This includes big chains and smaller, local markets.
Convenience stores often take EBT, too. But it is important to remember that the amount of items that can be purchased with EBT cards in convenience stores is smaller.
Some farmers markets, as mentioned earlier, participate in EBT programs, giving you a chance to buy fresh, locally-grown produce. Some restaurants also take EBT. These are generally fast-food restaurants.
Here’s a quick checklist to help you find stores that accept EBT:
- Look for a sign that says “EBT Accepted.”
- Ask a store employee if they accept EBT.
- Check the store’s website for payment information.
Alternatives to 5 Below If You’re Using EBT
If you’re looking for affordable items and need to use your EBT card, there are definitely other options out there. Many grocery stores offer a wide variety of products that you can purchase with your EBT card.
Thrift stores and dollar stores can also be good places to find inexpensive items. While their selection may vary, you may still be able to find some great deals.
There are also programs in some areas that offer free or reduced-price items. These programs are often run by food banks, local charities, or religious organizations.
Here’s a look at some alternative shopping locations:
- Grocery Stores
- Thrift Stores
- Dollar Stores
When using EBT, be sure to plan ahead and check the specific eligibility rules for the store you plan to visit.
Conclusion
So, to recap: Does 5 Below take EBT? No. While it’s a fun store to shop at, it doesn’t accept EBT because it doesn’t sell food items. However, you can still use your EBT card at grocery stores, and other places. Always make sure to plan your shopping trips and be aware of the payment options available to you.