Let’s navigate the EBT equipment world together.
This article addresses the free SNAP EBT Equipment Program and discusses additional options for ineligible markets.
All markets that accept SNAP/EBT must possess a machine that processes the EBT transaction.
Free Equipment?
Free, wireless, SNAP-Only equipment is available via Maine Department of Health & Human Services for farmers’ markets and direct-marketing farmers (farm stands, & CSA’s). There are eligibility requirements and other aspects to consider before pursuing this option. Email SNAP@mffm.org to learn how to participate.
Don’t want free equipment that is SNAP-Only? You have OPTIONS.
If your market has a big enough SNAP customer-base that you definitely need an EBT machine, then click this link to explore other options.
If your market doesn’t have many shoppers using SNAP/EBT right now, there are alternatives to processing EBT besides getting an expensive machine. Consider getting a (free) landline machine, or mailing in your EBT transactions. We recommend keeping your technology appropriate to your market’s size. If you have 0-3 SNAP transactions each week, you may want to forego the free EBT equipment grant until you build up a larger market of shoppers that use SNAP/EBT.
Not sure if you’re ready to operate a SNAP program? Try a SNAP Pilot program.
If you’re not sure that your market can attract SNAP/EBT shoppers, then why not take it slow? You can run a program for people enrolled in SNAP/EBT without signing up to accept SNAP/EBT. When people come to your market with their EBT card, you can provide them with market coupons that can only be spent at your market. This will involve fundraising ($100-$500) and some advanced planning. Stay tuned for more resources on this front. In the meantime contact MFFM to learn more.
Contact MFFM’s SNAP Program Coordinator- Jimmy DeBiasi- for more details about SNAP programming and EBT equipment at your market. Email SNAP@mffm.org or call 370-1524.