Washington EBT Card Guide for You
What is the Washington EBT Card?
EBT card is simply a card that looks like and works like a debit or credit card but it is loaded with food stamps and/or cash benefits. You can use it at stores that accept EBT.
How do I Apply for Food Stamps?
You can apply for food stamps by filling out a form and submitting it to any local office responsible for or related to food stamps close to you.
How do I renew my food stamps?
You will have to renew your food stamp before your certification period i.e before the amount of time you will get food stamps expires.
For most Washington DC residents without elderly i.e 60+ or disabled people, it is for 12 months.
For most Washington DC residents with elderly i.e 60+ or disabled people, it is for 24 months.
You will get a letter in your mail when it is time to reapply. But to be on the safer side, you can put a reminder in your calendar or food or any other place you keep important reminders.
When will I get my food stamps?
Washington DC sends out benefits from the 1st to the 10th of every month depending on the first letter of your last name.
What household changes do I have to report and when?
Most households only have to report two changes twice a year.
- When someone moves in or out of your household
- Financial changes like income, rent, savings, or child support.
Most households need to report these changes no more than 10 days after they happen.
- When your household income goes over the monthly income limit. This could be because someone starts making money or someone with income comes in.
- When an adult or child without a disability who was working or training 20 hours/week starts working or training less.
If you`re moving, you should report your new address so that you won`t miss any important letters.
What do I do if I can`t find my EBT Card?
If you have searched everywhere and still can`t find your, EBT Card, you can just simply dial the Washington EBT Card hotline at 1-888-304-9167
What can I buy with EBT?
You can use EBT to buy groceries, snacks, and seeds or plants that will produce food.
You can`t use food stamps to buy alcohol, tobacco products, vitamins, live animals, prepared food, or any non-food household items.
What stores and restaurants take EBT Cards?
Download the EBT fresh app to see the location of the stores, restaurants, and farmer`s stores where EBT cards can be accepted.
You don`t need an account to use the map.
Can I get any discount with my EBT Card?
Yes, you can. You and your family can be admitted to museums, Zoos, theme parks, and other fun places for a discount or even free.
Can I get more food stamps if I`m pregnant or a new parent?
Once your child is born, your household size will increase. More household members = more benefits!
While you are pregnant, you can`t get more food stamps but you can apply for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Benefits.
WIC provides food and resources for pregnant women, new parents, and children up to 5 years old.
WIC food packages typically include cereals, juice, eggs, milk, peanut butter, dried and canned beans, tofu, fruits and vegetables, whole wheat bread, canned fish, cheese for breastfeeding moms, and baby foods for babies.
