Accept EBT Chip Cards at your Business
Accept EBT chip cards is now a requirement for many small businesses, and this guide will show you how to stay compliant, secure, and ready for the future.
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The new EBT Chip cards are essentially the same as the old magnetic stripe cards, but with added security features.
EBT chip cards work similarly to credit and debit cards with chips. Instead of swiping the card, you insert it into a chip reader. This provides a higher level of security against fraud as the chip is more difficult to counterfeit than a magnetic stripe.
Key features of the new EBT chip cards include:
1. Enhanced security: Reduces the risk of fraud and identity theft.
2. Chip technology: Offers a more secure way to verify transactions.
3. Similar usage: Can be used at most places that accept EBT.
3 Steps to Accept EBT Chip Cards at your Business
STEP 1
Apply for a USDA FNS Permit
You need a USDA FNS (Food and Nutrition Service) permit to process EBT transactions, so check to see if you have one. If not, call us directly at 1-888-902-6202 to start accepting EBT transactions today.
STEP 2
Ensure you Get Approved
We have a dedicated staff of EBT/SNAP experts who work closely with small business owners to ensure you have the proper equipment. Most importantly, they make sure you aren’t paying too much for your EBT processing services.
You may call 1-888-902-6202 to speak with a Small Business EBT Specialist who can show you how to accept EBT payments today.
STEP 3
Receive your EBT Processing Equipment
Once approved, we will ship you your new processing equipment. You will receive your new updated all-in-one machine that processes EBT/food stamps, EMV, and credit/debit card transactions in as little as 24 hours. Get approved and accept EBT today.
Watch: How to Accept EBT Chip Cards at Your Store
This video covers the upcoming transition from traditional magnetic stripe EBT cards to new, more secure chip cards. Learn how this change enhances security, speeds up transactions, and what small business owners need to do to prepare, including upgrading POS systems.
EBT-Ready Devices
Explore our point-of-sale devices that come pre-programmed to accept EBT payments.
Get started today and accept EBT chip cards with Velocity Merchant Services.
Speak With An EBT Specialist
Fill out the form below and an EBT Specialist will contact you shortly.
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Frequently Asked Questions
An EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) chip card is a payment card used by recipients of government assistance programs, such as SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) and TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families). The new version of these cards includes a chip, which enhances security by protecting against fraud and unauthorized access.
The switch to chip technology is designed to improve security. Chip cards are much harder to duplicate than traditional magnetic stripe cards, significantly reducing the risk of fraud and unauthorized use.
Processing an EBT chip card is similar to any chip-based debit or credit card. The customer inserts their chip card into your payment terminal, enters their PIN, and the transaction is processed securely through the EBT network. If the terminal is chip-enabled and EBT-compliant, it will guide you through the process..
No. Only terminals that are both chip-enabled and EBT-certified can process EBT chip cards. Some older terminals may only accept magnetic stripe transactions and may not support the new chip functionality.
You may need to. If your terminal is not chip-enabled or is not currently certified to process EBT transactions, you will need an upgrade. Velocity Merchant Services can help assess your current setup and provide a compliant solution if needed.
Yes. Just like with traditional EBT cards, the customer will need to enter their 4-digit PIN to complete the transaction. This adds another layer of security.
If a transaction is declined, first verify the customer is using a valid EBT chip card and entering the correct PIN. If everything appears correct, the decline may be due to insufficient funds or system issues. You can suggest the customer check their balance or try again. If problems persist, contact your payment processor for assistance.
There are typically no additional fees specifically for accepting EBT chip transactions beyond your standard payment processing rates. However, terminal upgrades (if needed) may involve a one-time cost. Velocity Merchant Services offers competitive pricing and financing options for terminal upgrades.
To accept EBT chip payments, your business must be authorized by the USDA as a SNAP retailer. If you’re already accepting EBT, you’re likely eligible. If you’re unsure or looking to apply, VMS can help you with the application process and ensure your terminal is properly set up.
You can request official signage and decals from the USDA or through your payment provider. VMS also offers customizable signage options. Displaying this at your entrance and point of sale helps attract EBT customers and shows your business is chip-ready.
