EBT Processing Equipment for Merchants

Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) is the acceptance of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits as a form of payment. The SNAP program benefits, or food stamps, assists low-income individuals by providing them with supplemental funding from the government to purchase necessary food. EBT processing allows for retailers, such as grocery stores, to accept SNAP benefits as a form of payment.

Retailers such as grocery stores need an EBT permit to start accepting this form of payment and taking the necessary steps to acquire the permit is valuable. In 2018, roughly 40 million Americans were using SNAP, with the average monthly benefit being $250 per household. The main requirement for a permit is for 50% of all retail sales to come from eligible foods as part of the program. Retailers also must carry at least two of four of the following qualifying food groups: bread and grains; vegetables and fruit; meat, fish, and poultry; and dairy.

Understanding EBT Processing Machines

After taking the necessary steps to obtain a permit, you will need the proper equipment to process EBT payments. Most retailers are responsible for acquiring EBT processing equipment for themselves. Many merchant service providers will have a team in place to help you get your payment EBT processing up and running as quickly as possible.

The process for payment acceptance is very similar to that of a debit card payment: the customer simply swipes their EBT card and enters their Personal Identification Number (PIN) to verify identity. Software integrated with the equipment keeps track of all of the retailer’s sales from Electronic Benefits Transfer. The sales are then sent to the respective state’s EBT vendor. Once the sale verification is complete, EBT payments are transferred from the government to the business’s bank account.

Types of EBT Processing Equipment

Whether you already own a point-of-sale (POS) system or are looking to purchase one, BankCard Services offers solutions that makes the transition to start accepting EBT processing seamless. If your existing POS system is compatible, BankCard can integrate with it to make EBT processing possible. If you do not have a POS system or a terminal for your business, BankCard has a variety of options available which accept all forms of card payment, including EBT.

One of the biggest hang-ups that a lot of businesses experience with payment processing is the upfront expense to purchase equipment. If you are a small business, spending anywhere from $300 to $600 on equipment is not ideal. When you work with BankCard, you cut the expense of needing to purchase or lease equipment to process EBT payments. BankCard Services provides the equipment to help start making EBT transactions as quickly as possible.

Once you are up and running, there may be times when support is necessary. If that is the case, you want merchant services providers that are available. BankCard Services takes pride in its 24/7 support. They can assist with troubleshooting problems and provide solutions when necessary.

Accepting EBT payments is beneficial to your retail location. If you choose not to accept EBT or SNAP payments, you are missing out on revenue. It also helps show support for the community while expanding your customer base. BankCard Services can provide timely assistance with the setup and maintenance of your EBT payment processing equipment and services.

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