Does Circle K Take Food Stamps SNAP EBT Benefits?

This information is current as of May 6, 2022.

With more than 7,230 Circle K convenience stores throughout the U.S., it’s good to know the retailer accepts EBT for payment on SNAP-eligible items. Circle K sells snacks, beverages, hot foods, bakery items, and essential groceries like eggs, milk, and butter. Fred Hervey founded Circle K back in 1951 when he purchased three Kay’s Food Stores in El Paso, Texas. Today, it’s one of the most popular gas station convenience stores worldwide. 

If you are a SNAP recipient, you could be looking for an answer to “Does Circle K take food stamps, SNAP, or EBT benefits?” Like ARCO and Sheetz, you can purchase eligible food items from Circle K stores using your EBT card. Read on to learn more.

What Is SNAP?

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as Food Stamps, is a federal program that provides money to each state for assistance with food. States distribute these funds to participants using EBT cards. More than 248,000 vendors accept EBT/SNAP across the country.

Think might qualify for SNAP? Check out the federal guidelines to see if your income falls under the set limit. Then find your SNAP program through the USDA Locator and begin the application form online or in a local SNAP office.

Using EBT at Circle K

You may have recently received your Electronic Benefit Card (EBT) card if you’re new to SNAP. This card is automatically refilled every month with your SNAP benefits. Once approved, you’re then notified of your monthly benefit amount.

EBT cards are like debit or bank cards. However, they are only used to buy food items at specific retailers. Like Circle K, most major convenience chain stores accept EBT for certain things. There should be a sign or large decal sticker on the door on the registers letting customers know the store takes EBT.

Looking for a complete list of EBT-accepting retailers near you? Google “Places near me that accept EBT for payment.” 

Foods You Can Buy at Circle K With SNAP EBT

You can use your EBT card to purchase the following items at Circle K:

• Fruits and veggies
• Juices and non-alcoholic beverages
• Dairy products such as milk, yogurt, and cheeses
• Bread
• Snacks
• Cereals, crackers, and some cookies
• Baby formula
• Seeds and plants which produce food

Depending on your eligibility and where you live, some stores may participate in the Restaurant Meal Program (RMP). If the store is in a specific state or county, you may be allowed to purchase hot prepared foods.

The following states take part in the RMP:

• Arizona
• Certain California counties
• Maryland
• Michigan
• Rhode Island
• Virginia
• Illinois counties such as Dewitt, Franklin, and Cook County – zip code areas include 60619, 60620, 60628, and 60617

Items You Cannot Buy With EBT at Circle K 

You cannot use your EBT card to purchase the following items at convenience stores, gas stations, or grocery stores:

• Gas
• Alcohol
• CBD
• Cigarettes
• Lottery Tickets
• Pet Food
• Toiletries
• Vitamins
• Medicine

How to Use Your EBT Card to Pay

When it is time to pay for your EBT-approved grocery items, you will insert, tap, or swipe your EBT card into the card machine. From here, you will need to enter your PIN.

You should have created a four-digit PIN when you first received your EBT card. Depending on your state, some PINs can be made online through the SNAP website or by phone call when activating your card.

It’s usually best to select a series of memorable numbers as your PIN. Of course, you don’t want these numbers to be easily guessed by others. For example, using your birthday is usually too easy to guess. Still, other special dates that are important to you may be acceptable. Try not to enter an incorrect PIN several times in a row, or you could get locked out of your account.

Once you enter your PIN, your transaction will be complete. If you’re buying non-SNAP items, you will be prompted to pay for them with another payment source. Most Circle K stores accept cash, debit card, and/or credit cards.

Save Money on Your Wireless Phone Service

Are you looking for assistance with your wireless phone service? Did you know that if you qualify for programs like SNAP, you may also be eligible for Lifeline or the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)? Both Lifeline and ACP are government programs that help low-income consumers receive free or heavily discounted communication services.

Click here to find out more and apply for this valuable benefit.

Get a Tablet for $10.01

If you qualify, you can get an 8″ tablet for just $10.01. Apply here to get started.

Save Even More With Recommended Resources and Amazon Deals

Looking to save on additional items for you and your family? Check out our Recommended Resources page. For example, you can learn how to save 50% on Amazon Prime membership and use your EBT card.