5 Below does not accept EBT cards for purchases in stores or online

5 Below, the discount retailer that sells items for $5 and under, does not take SNAP benefits (the card formerly called food stamps). The store's payment methods are cash, debit cards, credit cards, and their own 5 Below gift cards. If you have an EBT card, you cannot use it at 5 Below locations or on their website.

This matters because 5 Below sells a mix of products — some food items, toys, home goods, and seasonal merchandise. The confusion often comes from the fact that the store does carry snacks and drinks. However, SNAP rules are strict about where the card works, and 5 Below is not an authorized retailer in the SNAP system.

Key Takeaways

  • 5 Below does not accept EBT or SNAP cards at any of its locations or through its website.
  • The store sells snacks and drinks, but these cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits because 5 Below is not a SNAP-authorized retailer.
  • SNAP benefits work only at grocery stores, supermarkets, farmers markets, and other retailers that are specifically authorized by your state's SNAP program.
  • If you need to stretch your SNAP budget, traditional grocery stores and discount grocers like Aldi, Walmart, and Food Lion accept EBT cards.

Which stores do accept EBT for food purchases

SNAP benefits work at authorized retailers only. These include traditional grocery stores (Kroger, Safeway, Publix), supermarkets (Walmart, Target), discount grocers (Aldi, Food Lion, Save-A-Lot), and farmers markets in your area. Some convenience stores and dollar stores also accept SNAP, but not all — it depends on whether they are registered with your state's SNAP program.

The easiest way to find stores near you that take EBT is to use the SNAP Retailer Locator on the USDA website. You enter your zip code and it shows you every authorized location within a distance you choose. This tool is free and updated regularly.

What you can buy with SNAP at authorized stores

SNAP covers fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, dairy, breads, cereals, snacks, and non-alcoholic beverages. You can buy frozen and canned versions of these foods. Seeds and plants that produce food are also covered.

SNAP does not cover hot or prepared foods, alcohol, tobacco, vitamins, medicines, pet food, household items, or toiletries — even if the store sells them. At a store like Walmart that sells both groceries and general merchandise, your EBT card will only work on the food items that SNAP covers.

Why 5 Below is not a SNAP retailer

5 Below is classified as a general merchandise retailer, not a grocery store. The store's primary business is selling toys, home décor, seasonal items, and novelties — most of which are not food. While the store does stock some snacks and drinks, SNAP authorization is based on the store's overall business type and inventory, not on whether it happens to sell a few may be able to access items.

SNAP retailers must meet specific requirements set by the USDA, including maintaining a certain percentage of their inventory in staple foods and operating as a food-focused business. 5 Below does not meet these criteria.

Using your SNAP budget at discount retailers

If you want to stretch your SNAP benefits, discount grocers often have lower prices than traditional supermarkets. Aldi, Food Lion, Save-A-Lot, and Walmart's grocery section all accept EBT and offer competitive pricing on may be able to access foods. These stores are designed to help people on tight budgets buy more food for less money.

Farmers markets in your area may also accept SNAP, and some offer matching programs where your SNAP dollar is matched with additional funds to spend on fresh produce. Check your local farmers market website or call ahead to confirm they take EBT.

Other payment options at 5 Below

At 5 Below, you can pay with Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, debit cards, and cash. The store also accepts its own 5 Below gift cards. If you shop online at 5below.com, you can use the same credit and debit card options, plus PayPal.

If you are looking to buy items at 5 Below on a limited budget, you would need to use your own money or a gift card. The store's low prices (most items are $5 or under) can make it affordable for general purchases, but it is not a place to stretch SNAP benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my EBT card at any discount store?

No. Only stores that are registered as SNAP retailers can accept EBT. Discount stores like Five Below, Five and Below, Dollar General, and Dollar Tree do not accept SNAP. Use the USDA SNAP Retailer Locator to find authorized stores in your area.

What if a store says it accepts EBT but 5 Below does not?

Different retailers have different SNAP authorization status. A store near 5 Below might accept EBT because it is classified as a grocery store or supermarket, while 5 Below is not. Always ask the cashier or check the store's website before shopping.

Can I buy snacks at 5 Below with SNAP if they are food items?

No. Even though 5 Below sells snacks and drinks that would normally be SNAP-may be able to access, the store itself is not authorized to accept EBT. SNAP only works at retailers that are registered in the system, regardless of what products they carry.

Are there online grocery stores that accept EBT?

Yes. Amazon Fresh, Walmart.com, and some regional grocery delivery services accept EBT for online orders. You will need to set up an account and verify your EBT card. Availability varies by location and delivery area.