1996 Federal Welfare Reform legislation mandated delivery of food stamps using EBT by 2002, and Alameda County chose to also issue cash benefits on the EBT card .

How will I pay my bills with EBT? For example - rent, PG&E and furniture bills?

You can get cash using your EBT card at a grocery store or an ATM; or you can purchase money orders with your EBT card to pay your bills.

Can my EBT account be garnished?

No. However, if you decide to have your cash benefits deposited into your personal bank account using Direct Deposit, any money in your bank account may be garnished.

Can I deposit money into my EBT account?

No.

Will the EBT accounts collect interest?

No.

Will neighborhood stores where I now shop take EBT?

Most neighborhood stores that accept food stamps will accept EBT .

Will the EBT card be accepted outside of Alameda County?

Some major retail chains, such as Safeway, Albertsons, Target and WalMart will accept EBT at all their stores throughout California.

Most other Bay Area counties, and other counties in the state, have also changed to EBT, so the EBT card from Alameda County will work in those counties as well

EBT will also be accepted in states that are already using EBT.

What happens if there is leftover money or food stamps in the EBT account at the end of the month?

Money or food stamps left over at the end of the month will stay on the card and can be spent the next month.

If I still have some food stamp coupons, can I use them?

Yes, food stamp coupons can still be used.

How long will it take to get a replacement card?

If your card is lost or stolen, it will usually be replaced within three to five days. In an emergency, it can be replaced the same day by coming into one of our offices.

With the EBT card and two accounts, will there be a need to tell the cashier which account to use?

Yes, you will have to let the cashier know whether you want the payment to come from your cash or your food stamp account.

Can the assigned PIN number be changed?

Yes, you can change the PIN as often as you want, by calling Customer Service at

1-877-328-9677, or by coming into one of our offices .

How will I know the balance on my account?

The balance in your account will always be printed on the receipt for purchases or withdrawals. You can also call Customer Service at 1-877-328-0677.

Will the ATMs only give $20 dollar bills?

Most ATMs only give $20 dollar bills. If you have a balance that is smaller than $20.00, you can go to a grocery store such as Safeway or Albertsons and get cash at their customer service counter.

Will there be a list of banks that take the EBT card?

Yes, a list of banks and ATMs and retail stores that take the EBT card is available at Social Services Agency offices.

What do I do if my card does not work?

Call Customer Service at 1-877-328-9677.

How long will the card last?

The card will last many months. You will not be issued a new card each month. Continue to use the same card month to month.

Can I chose not to use EBT?

No, all Alameda County food stamp and cash benefit recipients will use EBT. If you have a disability or other special situation that makes it difficult to use EBT for cash, contact your worker to see if you qualify for an exemption. For Food Stamps, you can get an Authorized Representative to help you buy food with your EBT card.

Will I need a bank account for EBT?

No, a special electronic account will be set up just to be used for EBT.