What is EBT?

Thousands of Georgia’s families receive SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program; formerly known as Food Stamps), which allows them to use their Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card to purchase food.
The New Georgia EBT Farmers Market Program allows SNAP customers to use their EBT card at local farmers markets. This project provides assistance, training and new equipment necessary to implement the EBT token system at community farmers markets.

How does the token system work?

• Market manager applies for SNAP authorization.
• Wooden tokens are used for currency.
• Customer swipes EBT card for tokens.
• Vendor accepts tokens for food purchases.
• Vendors cash in tokens with market manager.
• Market is reimbursed within 48 hours.

How do I get started?

1. Complete USDA FNS application: www.fns.usda.gov/ebt/fm.htm

2. Submit token design to state EBT Office and purchase tokens upon design
approval.

3. Train farmers on SNAP rules and token redemption.

4. Conduct outreach campaigns to inform your community of SNAP acceptance.

How Do I Get Equipment ?

A market can choose from the following options for EBT equipment:

Hardwire equipment:

• A market must have access to electricity and a phone line to use hardwire equipment
• FREE state-provided equipment processes EBT/SNAP transactions only
• Commercial equipment: Can be used if you want to process credit and debit cards in ADDITION to EBT/SNAP card transactions. Additional fees apply.

Wireless equipment:

• Does not require any phone or electric connectivity
• Processes credit, debit, and EBT/SNAP cards
• Monthly access and transaction fees apply