EBT in Chicago: A Guide to Where You Can Use Your Link Card
Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT), also known as the Link Card in Illinois, is a government program that provides food assistance to eligible low-income households. If you live in Chicago and receive EBT benefits, you can use your Link Card at a variety of retailers throughout the city.
Here's a breakdown of where you can use your EBT card in Chicago:
Grocery Stores
- Major chains: You can use your EBT card at most major grocery store chains in Chicago, including Jewel-Osco, Aldi, Dominick's, and Whole Foods Market.
- Independent stores: EBT is also accepted at many independent grocery stores throughout the city. You can find a list of participating stores on the Illinois Department of Human Services website.
- Farmers markets: Some farmers markets in Chicago accept EBT. You can check the website of the individual market to see if they participate.
Restaurants
- Limited options: Unfortunately, there are only a few restaurants in Chicago that accept EBT. This is because restaurants are required to have a special license to accept EBT payments.
- Fast food: Some fast-food restaurants, such as McDonald's and Burger King, accept EBT at select locations. You can check the restaurant's website or call ahead to see if they participate.
Other Retailers
- Convenience stores: You can use your EBT card at some convenience stores to purchase food items.
- Drug stores: Some drug stores, such as Walgreens and CVS, accept EBT for food purchases.
- Online retailers: Amazon now accepts EBT for online grocery purchases. You can order groceries through Amazon Fresh and use your Link Card to pay.
Important Things to Keep in Mind
- Cash back: You cannot use your EBT card to withdraw cash.
- Alcohol and tobacco: EBT cannot be used to purchase alcohol or tobacco products.
- Hot food: You cannot use EBT to purchase hot prepared foods, such as pizza or fried chicken.
- Non-food items: EBT cannot be used to purchase non-food items, such as cleaning supplies or toiletries.
FAQs
How to find EBT-accepting stores near me?
You can use the Illinois Department of Human Services website to find a list of EBT-accepting stores near you. You can also download the LinkCard Mobile app, which allows you to search for participating stores by location.
How to use my EBT card at a restaurant?
If you're using your EBT card at a restaurant, you'll need to present your card to the cashier when you're ready to pay. The cashier will swipe your card and process the transaction.
How to check my EBT balance?
You can check your EBT balance online at the Illinois Department of Human Services website. You can also call the toll-free number 1-800-283-6784 to check your balance.
How to report a lost or stolen EBT card?
If your EBT card is lost or stolen, you should call the toll-free number 1-800-283-6784 to report it. A new card will be mailed to you.
How to get help with my EBT benefits?
If you have questions about your EBT benefits, you can contact the Illinois Department of Human Services at 1-800-283-6784. You can also visit their website for more information.