Did you know that over 40 million Americans rely on EBT cards to purchase food and other essentials? As mobile payments gain popularity, many EBT users are wondering whether they can add their cards to popular apps like Google Pay.
In this article, we’ll explore whether adding an EBT card to Google Pay is possible and what you need to know before you attempt it.
We’ll also discuss the limitations of EBT cards and how they differ from traditional debit or credit cards. So, if you’re an EBT user or simply curious about the topic, read on to learn more!
How to Add Ebt Card to Google Pay?
Unfortunately, at this time, it is not possible to add an EBT card to Google Pay. While some stores may allow manual payment using an EBT card, Google Pay does not currently support this payment method.
However, you can still add a debit or credit card to Google Pay to make mobile payments. To do so, follow these steps:
- Open the Google Pay app and tap the “Insights” tab at the bottom.
- Click “Show all accounts.”
- Tap “Add account.”
- Select “Debit or credit card” to use as a payment method.
- You can then capture your card manually using your phone’s camera or enter the card details manually.
- Review the issuer’s terms and conditions, then click “Accept.”
Keep in mind that while Google Pay offers a convenient and secure way to make payments, not all retailers accept mobile payments, including EBT payments.
Before attempting to make a payment with Google Pay, be sure to check whether the retailer accepts this form of payment.
Why Doesn’t Google Pay Accept an EBT Card?
Google Pay is a mobile payment platform that allows users to store and use credit and debit cards, as well as loyalty cards and other payment methods.
However, EBT cards are not currently supported by Google Pay. This is because EBT cards are different from traditional payment cards such as debit or credit cards.
EBT cards are issued by the government to provide food assistance to individuals and families in need.
They can only be used at authorized retailers that participate in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which is overseen by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
EBT cards can be used to purchase life-sustaining supplies such as groceries, food, certain pharmacy supplies, and drugs, but they cannot be used for other types of purchases.
Unlike traditional payment cards, EBT cards are not designed for general use or online shopping. Therefore, Google Pay does not currently support EBT cards as a payment method.
However, users can still add debit or credit cards to Google Pay to make mobile payments at merchants that accept these payment methods.
Does Apple Pay work with EBT Card?
Apple Pay does not work with EBT cards. Apple Pay can only work with credit or debit cards, like Google Pay.
Credit or debit cards with the Visa/Mastercard or American Express logos on them can be used with Apple Pay.
On the other hand, the EBT card does not have that logo on it. Which is why Apple Pay does not work with EBT cards.
Conclusion
Although Google and Apple Pay do not accept EBT cards, there are still ways to use your EBT benefits for eligible purchases.
We encourage you to explore alternative payment options, such as cash or check, and to visit government websites or local assistance programs for additional resources.
We hope this article has provided you with helpful information on EBT payments and payment options.