EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer/ Food Stamp Program

GMS is now offering The Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) or The Purchase Card Program. Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) is growing at a tremendous rate. Government programs such as Food Stamps, Women/Infants/Children (WIC), and Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) issue benefits on an EBT card. The card works like a debit card, with electronic payment authorization.

In many states, EBT cards are the primary source for government-issued benefits. Today, more than 80 percent of food stamp benefits are issued on EBT cards. Financial experts predict that social security and other benefits will eventually be issued on EBT cards.

The Purchase Card is replacing the Paper Based Food Stamp Coupons and Public Assistance Checks. All Food and Consumer Services (FCS) certified stores could participate in The Purchase Card Program. If you choose not to participate, you will not be able to accept Food Stamp Purchases or Public Assistance from customers with the Purchase Card.

Your customers who receive Food Stamps and Public Assistance will be receiving their Benefits on a Plastic Card, similar to a Credit Card. These customers will come to your store to purchase goods using their Purchase Card.

The Purchase Card Program helps reduce your costs and time spent processing Food Stamp Coupons. Because the purchases are done electronically, you no longer have the coupons to total, bundle or deposit.

You have no liability for Food Stamps or Public Assistance transactions as long as The Purchase Card Cardholder enters the Personal Identification Number (PIN) into The Purchase Card Equipment and the purchase is approved, similar to a Credit Card Transaction.

You no longer give change back to Food Stamp Recipients. Food Stamp purchases are recorded to the penny.

All Purchase Card purchases performed at your store are automatically deposited into your account within 24 to 48 business hours. You can call a toll-free Help Desk 24 Hours a Day, 7 days a week, with questions, problems or other concerns about The Purchase Card Program.

Balancing Purchase Card purchases is done the same way similar to balancing your credit cards or register. You will receive training and instructions on how to perform this function.

If you have any questions or comments or in need of any of our exclusive Financial Services, please feel free to contact us at sales@globalmerchantservices.com.