You can withdraw cash from your EBT card at ATMs and some store counters, but only if your state's program includes TANF cash benefits

Not all EBT cards hold cash. Your card carries two separate accounts: one for SNAP food benefits (formerly food stamps) and one for TANF cash information, if your state offers it. You can withdraw cash only from the TANF side. If your state does not run a TANF program or you were not approved for cash information, your card will not dispense cash at any ATM, no matter how you try.

To find out whether your card includes cash benefits, check your most recent approval letter or call your state's TANF program directly. The number is on the back of your card. Your caseworker can also tell you in one call whether cash withdrawals are part of your account.

If your card does include cash, you can withdraw at any ATM that accepts your card's network (usually Visa or Mastercard). Many grocery stores, pharmacies, and convenience stores also let you withdraw cash back when you make a purchase, though some charge a fee for this service.

Key Takeaways

  • EBT cards have two separate accounts: SNAP for food and TANF for cash, and you can only withdraw cash if your state provides TANF benefits and you were approved for them.
  • Check your approval letter or call your state's TANF program to confirm whether your card includes cash withdrawal access.
  • Cash withdrawals work at any ATM that accepts your card's network, plus at many store counters when you make a purchase.
  • Some ATMs and stores charge fees for cash withdrawals or cash-back transactions, so compare your options before you withdraw.
  • If you lose your card or forget your PIN, contact your state's EBT customer service to report it and request a replacement or PIN reset.

Where you can withdraw cash

ATMs are the most straightforward option. Your EBT card works at any ATM that displays the logo of your card's network — usually Visa, Mastercard, or your state's own EBT network symbol. You do not need to go to a specific bank; thousands of ATMs nationwide accept EBT cards.

Retail locations also offer cash withdrawals. When you buy groceries or other items at a supermarket, pharmacy, or convenience store, you can ask the cashier for cash back. The amount comes out of your TANF account, and the store deducts it from your total purchase. Some retailers charge a small fee for this service, while others do not, so it pays to ask before you check out.

A few states run their own EBT networks with branded ATMs. If your state uses one, those ATMs may not charge fees, while out-of-network ATMs might. Your approval letter or the back of your card will tell you which network you use.

ATM fees and how to avoid them

Many ATMs charge a fee for each withdrawal, typically between $1 and $3. These fees come out of your TANF balance, so they reduce the cash you actually receive. Out-of-network ATMs — machines that do not belong to your card's primary network — tend to charge higher fees than in-network machines.

To keep more of your money, use ATMs operated by your card's network or by your state's EBT program. Some banks and credit unions also waive fees for EBT withdrawals, so it is worth asking your bank whether they do. Withdrawing cash back at a store during a purchase often costs nothing or less than an ATM fee, making it a cheaper option if you are buying something anyway.

Plan your withdrawals so you make fewer trips. If you withdraw once a week instead of three times a week, you save money on fees even if each withdrawal is larger.

PIN requirements and what to do if you forget it

You need your Personal Identification Number (PIN) to withdraw cash at an ATM or to use cash back at a store. Your PIN is not the same as your SNAP PIN, even if you use the same card for both benefits. Some states issue a separate PIN for cash withdrawals.

If you forget your PIN, contact your state's EBT customer service line. The number is on the back of your card. You will need to verify your identity — usually with your Social Security number and date of birth — and the representative can reset your PIN over the phone or mail you a new one. The process usually takes a few minutes if you call, or a few days if you request it by mail.

Do not share your PIN with anyone, including family members or caseworkers. Your PIN is the only thing protecting your cash balance from theft.

Daily and monthly withdrawal limits

Most states set a daily limit on how much cash you can withdraw from an ATM, usually between $300 and $500 per day. Some states also set a monthly limit on total cash withdrawals. These limits vary by state, so check your approval letter or call your state's TANF program to learn your specific limits.

The daily limit resets at midnight, so if you hit your limit early in the day, you can withdraw again the next day. If you need more cash than your daily limit allows, you can withdraw on multiple days or ask a store for cash back on a separate transaction.

If you try to withdraw more than your limit, the ATM will decline the transaction. This does not hurt your account; it straightforward means the machine will not dispense the cash. Try again the next day or withdraw a smaller amount.

What happens if your card is lost or stolen

Report a lost or stolen EBT card to your state's customer service line right away. The number is on the back of your card, or you can find it on your state's TANF website. Once you report it, your card is frozen and no one can withdraw cash or use your benefits, even if they have your PIN.

Your state will mail you a replacement card, which usually arrives within 7 to 10 business days. In the meantime, you may be able to withdraw cash at your state's EBT office or through an emergency cash replacement program, depending on your state's rules. Ask the customer service representative what options are available to you while you wait for your new card.

If someone withdrew cash from your card before you reported it stolen, contact your state's EBT program to report the unauthorized withdrawal. They will investigate and may restore the funds to your account, though this process can take several weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I withdraw cash from my SNAP benefits?

No. SNAP benefits are for food purchases only and cannot be withdrawn as cash. Only TANF cash information can be withdrawn. If your state does not offer TANF or you were not approved for it, your card will not dispense any cash.

What if my state does not have a TANF program?

Some states do not run TANF programs or have very limited programs. In those cases, your EBT card will only hold SNAP food benefits and will not allow cash withdrawals under any circumstances. Contact your state's TANF office to learn whether the program exists in your state.

Can someone else withdraw cash using my card?

Only if they know your PIN. Your PIN is required for all ATM withdrawals and most cash-back transactions. Never share your PIN with anyone. If someone uses your card without permission, report it to your state's EBT customer service when ready.

Do I pay taxes on TANF cash withdrawals?

TANF is a government benefit, not income, so you do not owe federal income tax on it. However, some states may have different rules, and TANF can affect other benefits you receive. Ask your caseworker how TANF affects your taxes or other programs.

Can I withdraw cash at an international ATM?

Most EBT cards work only in the United States. If you travel outside the country, your card may not work at foreign ATMs, and your state may charge high fees for international transactions. Contact your state's EBT customer service before you travel to learn what options are available.