One of the questions that EBT card users often ask is whether it is possible to transfer cash to a bank account, either savings or checking. Many people need it to be able to make payments directly from it. But is it possible?
According to information from different users on platforms such as Quora, we found other ways to transfer money from an EBT card to a bank account or debit card online. Here we tell you what they are and what is the best or more accessible alternative.
Can I transfer money from EBT to my bank account?
Unfortunately, there is no direct method to transfer money from an EBT card to a bank account or debit card. This is because EBT cards can only be purchased at supermarkets, stores, and other government-approved merchants.
Remember that the EBT is a benefits card for a sector of U.S. society that cannot access the same resources as other citizens. Specifically, it functions as a food benefit.
However, in some states, it is possible to go to an ATM to withdraw money from your EBT card, deposit it into your bank account, and then to your debit card, if necessary.
Ways to transfer EBT cash to a bank account
Despite denials that transferring EBT cash to a bank account is impossible. There are some indirect ways to do it. For example, one way is to use Cash App. If you are a regular Walgreens customer, you can also learn if Walgreens accepts EBT.
Another way to transfer money from EBT to my bank account is using a prepaid debit card intended only for this option. For example, one of them is the American Express Bluebird Card.
Here are some ways to transfer EBT money to a bank account:
- Make an online transfer. To do this, withdraw the funds at an ATM and then deposit the withdrawn cash into your bank account.
- You can also write a check with the money you wish to transfer and then deposit the check into the account.
Keep in mind: You should contact the company that granted you the EBT to get more information about this option. It may be available in your state, and you have yet to learn it. Also, find out if there are any fees for withdrawing money at an ATM with your EBT or similar transactions.
Sent money from your EBT card to Cash App
First of all, remember that not all EBT cards can transfer money, as well as withdraw cash. If you have it, you can transfer money from your EBT to this app as long as you have enough money in your account. The procedure is very simple:
- Log in to your EBT card account.
- Transfer the money you want to send to your Cash App account.
- Click on “Confirm.” You are done!
Can I transfer money from an EBT Card to PayPal?
In this case, transferring money from your EBT card to PayPal is impossible. However, there is a way for this financial benefit provided by the federal and local governments to go into your PayPal account.
You can make a deposit of the money to your PayPal account through a PayPal Direct Deposit. In this case, we will explain the procedure:
- Let your county worker know how you prefer to receive this financial aid deposited to your EBT Card.
- If you prefer, you can change from EBT to direct deposit or vice versa. It is within your power to do so whenever you wish. However, making only a few changes for a short period is always advisable.
- The county worker will give you instructions on how to proceed.
Important: a direct deposit is used because it is much safer than paper checks and is less expensive than checks for both the taxpayer and the payee.
Can you transfer EBT cash to Venmo?
Unlike the Cash App alternative, it is not possible to transfer EBT cash to Venmo. This is due to several security issues. The government is quite careful about how the beneficiaries of an EBT card are handled, as the idea is that they only use it to buy food.
Once they get the cash, they are entitled to purchase anything, including alcohol, cigarettes, etc. Therefore, transferring EBT cash to any bank account is quite limited.
Withdraw cash from your EBT: things to consider
Despite the limitations regarding Venmo or PayPal, you can withdraw money from your EBT card at ATMs with the QUEST logo. These can be found in banks, malls, credit unions, gas stations, etc.
You can also withdraw cash from your EBT card at POS (Point of Sale) payment devices found at the cash registers of SNAP participating stores.
Tip: at some stores, you can get cash back with your purchase.
Keep in mind that the government uses the EBT card to facilitate your access to SNAP benefits. This does not prevent it from functioning like any other debit card.
Although it is unusual for the beneficiary to be able to withdraw money from their EBT card, this varies from state to state. For example, in California, this benefit does exist. Likewise, in Washington (Quest EBT CARD), it is also possible, as long as the card has the cash benefit. In other words, EBT cards can be used at any merchant participating in the program.