What you can withdraw from an EBT card

Most EBT cards let you withdraw cash at ATMs and grocery store checkout counters, but only if your state's program includes a cash benefit. The card itself works like a debit card — you enter your PIN, and money comes out. However, not all states offer cash withdrawals, and the amount you can take out each day or month may be limited.

The cash portion of EBT is called TANF (Temporary information for Needy Families) or a state-specific cash information program. SNAP benefits, which load onto the same card in most states, cannot be withdrawn as cash — they can only be used to buy food at stores that accept EBT. If your state includes a cash benefit with your account, that portion will be separate from your SNAP balance and will show as a different amount on your card.

Key Takeaways

  • Cash withdrawals from EBT are only possible if your state offers a cash information program like TANF, which is separate from SNAP food benefits.
  • You can withdraw cash at ATMs and many grocery store checkout counters using your PIN, just like a regular debit card.
  • Daily and monthly withdrawal limits vary by state and may be as low as $20 per day or as high as your full monthly benefit.
  • ATM fees charged by banks or ATM operators are your responsibility and will reduce the amount you withdraw.
  • If you lose your PIN or card, contact your state's EBT customer service line to reset it or request a replacement.

How to withdraw cash at an ATM

Insert your EBT card into any ATM that displays your card's logo — usually Visa, Mastercard, or a state-specific symbol. Enter your four-digit PIN. Select "Withdrawal" and choose the amount you want. The machine will dispense cash and print a receipt showing your new balance.

Not all ATMs accept EBT cards. Gas stations, convenience stores, and bank branches are common locations, but some ATMs are restricted to customers of that bank only. If an ATM rejects your card, try another location. Keep your receipt to track your balance, since ATM screens sometimes show outdated information.

Withdrawing cash at store checkout

Many grocery stores and retailers that accept EBT also allow you to withdraw cash at the register when you make a purchase. Tell the cashier you want cash back, and they will add the amount to your total. You will need to enter your PIN on the keypad at checkout. This method avoids ATM fees, since stores do not charge for cash-back transactions.

Not every store offers this service — ask the cashier before you shop. Stores that do offer it usually allow withdrawals up to a set limit per transaction, often $20 to $100. This limit is set by the store, not your state program.

Daily and monthly withdrawal limits

Each state sets its own rules for how much cash you can withdraw per day and per month. Some states allow you to withdraw your entire monthly benefit at once, while others cap daily withdrawals at $20 or $50. A few states do not allow cash withdrawals at all.

Check your state's EBT website or call the customer service number on the back of your card to learn your specific limits. Your balance and remaining withdrawal allowance will show on your receipt after each transaction. If you hit your daily limit, you can try again the next day.

ATM fees and how they work

Banks and ATM operators charge fees for out-of-network withdrawals — meaning ATMs that do not belong to your card's bank. These fees typically range from $1 to $3 per withdrawal and come directly out of your account. The ATM screen usually displays the fee before you confirm the transaction, so you can cancel if you choose.

To avoid fees, use ATMs owned by your card's bank or network. Your state's EBT website lists fee-free ATM locations, or you can call customer service to find the nearest one. Withdrawing cash at store checkout is always free and is often the cheapest option.

What happens if you forget your PIN

Call the customer service number on the back of your EBT card to reset your PIN. You will need to answer security questions to verify your identity. The process usually takes a few minutes, and you can set a new PIN over the phone. Some states also let you reset your PIN online through their EBT portal.

If you have not received a PIN or do not know the number, contact your state's EBT program directly. They can mail you a new card with a PIN, which typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days. In the meantime, you can still use your card at checkout by providing your ID, though you will not be able to withdraw cash.

States that do not offer cash withdrawals

A small number of states do not include a cash information program with EBT or restrict cash withdrawals to specific circumstances. If your state is one of them, your card will only work for SNAP food purchases. You can contact your local social services office to ask whether your household is may be able to access for other cash information programs that operate separately from EBT.

Even in states that do offer cash withdrawals, the program may have a waiting list or may not be open to new applicants. Your may be able to access for cash benefits depends on your household income, family size, and work status — factors that are separate from SNAP may be able to access. The office that issued your EBT card can tell you whether you are enrolled in a cash program.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I withdraw my entire monthly benefit at once?

It depends on your state. Some states allow full monthly withdrawals, while others cap daily or monthly amounts. Check your state's EBT website or call the number on your card to learn your specific limits. Your receipt will show how much you have left to withdraw for the month.

What if an ATM keeps rejecting my card?

The ATM may not accept EBT, your PIN may be incorrect, or your account may have a temporary hold. Try a different ATM first. If the problem continues, call customer service on the back of your card. They can check whether your account is active and help you troubleshoot the issue.

Do I pay taxes on cash withdrawn from EBT?

No. Cash information is not taxable income. You do not report EBT withdrawals on your tax return, and the IRS does not consider them wages or earnings. The money is already counted as income when you were determined to be may be able to access for the program.

Can someone else withdraw cash using my EBT card?

Only if you give them your card and PIN. Your PIN is personal and should never be shared. If someone else has used your card without permission, call customer service when ready to report fraud and request a new card.

What if I withdraw cash and then lose it?

Once cash leaves the ATM or register, it is gone. EBT programs do not replace lost or stolen cash. This is why it is important to keep your PIN private and withdraw only the amount you plan to use soon. If your card itself is lost or stolen, call customer service right away to freeze the account.