CFCA/Petroleum Card Services Endorsed EBT/EMV Compliant Solution

Whether you’re new to EBT or just want to learn more about the new California EMV (chip card) mandate for EBT, CFCA is providing members with a recommended alternative from going through the process on your own.

 

CFCA understands the EBT process can be confusing, time consuming and expensive when working through the state. Our endorsed payment processing provider Petroleum Card Services will guide you through the process and provide a cost effective EBT/EMV solution with some added benefits.

 

The PCS EBT solution is EMV compliant, provides for the acceptance of EBT with the added value of Credit, Debit and Fleet Card acceptance on the same device. This creates an inexpensive in-store backup should your branded solution have issues. Please see the blog below for more details and contact information.

 

Accepting EBT/EMV compliant payments: a guide for US convenience, grocery stores and other small businesses

In the dynamic landscape of managing a business, adapting to the evolving needs of consumers is crucial for business growth. One significant avenue that merchants and small businesses should explore is accepting Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) payments. In this blog post, we will delve into the rules, regulations, and benefits of embracing EBT payments, shedding light on how it can enhance foot traffic and revenue for businesses across the U.S.

 

Understanding EBT and SNAP benefits

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides benefits to over 41 million Americans annually through Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards. Unlike the traditional paper stamps of yesteryears, EBT cards function like debit cards, streamlining the process for both recipients and merchants.

 

SNAP restrictions and approved Items

It is important to be aware of the restrictions imposed on SNAP benefits. Users can only purchase approved food items, excluding gasoline, tobacco, alcohol, lottery tickets, and prepared foods.

 

Understanding the allowed items, such as meat, produce, seafood, and packaged goods, can enhance the shopping experience for EBT users.

 

Benefits of accepting EBT – a growing customer base

EBT acceptance not only aligns with societal needs but also presents an opportunity for increased sales. By displaying signage indicating EBT acceptance, merchants can attract and retain customers who rely on these benefits for their regular grocery purchases and potentially drive incremental sales of other items.

 

With over 41 million people enrolled in SNAP in 2024 and a steady increase expected, merchants who accept EBT payments can serve a larger customer base and increase in-store foot traffic.

 

Branded or unbranded small businesses can accept EBT with the help of Paysafe’s PCS

Whether the merchant is part of a branded (franchised) or unbranded business model, such as fuel or C-store, Paysafe’s PCS can help setting up an EBT/EMV-compliant payment system. The branded solution from PCS can also act as a backup for all other card types, (credit, debit, fleet cards) instore should the branded solution have an issue. For unbranded stations, EBT can be included as a payment method with all other card types at the POS.

 

The application process

Merchants interested in accepting EBT must go through a process that includes providing  information about the store's ownership, detailing the categories and variety of stocked food items, and ensuring compliance with SNAP regulations. Currently, the program has more than 240,000 authorized retailers nationwide.

 

See a detailed list of requirements for accepting EBT.

 

The team at Paysafe’s PCS actively supports partner merchants thought the application process.

 

How EBT works and tips for retailers

Embracing EBT payments can be a strategic move for convenience stores, grocery shops and other small businesses, offering a win-win scenario for both merchants and customers. By understanding the rules, regulations, and benefits associated with EBT, businesses can contribute to the well-being of communities while enhancing their own bottom line.

 

If you're considering setting up your store to accept EBT payments or have questions regarding EMV compliance, reach out to Paysafe’s PCS experts, and they will be happy to guide you through the process and unlock the full potential of this opportunity.