EBT cash benefits, also known as cash EBT or TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families), provide flexible monthly support to low-income families with children for everyday needs beyond food. Delivered via your Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card often the same one as SNAP (food stamps) it is loaded monthly and works like a debit card. With federal funding at $16.5 billion (unchanged since 1996), states administer TANF with flexibility, serving about 1 million families nationwide. Unlike SNAP’s food-only restrictions, EBT cash covers broader essentials. Below, we break down the basics, eligibility, usage, and state details for North Carolina, Alabama, and Massachusetts.
What Is EBT Cash? (And What Does It Mean?)
EBT cash refers to the cash portion of your EBT card from programs like TANF, General Assistance (GA), or refugee cash aid. It’s temporary financial help (up to 60 months lifetime federally) to promote self-sufficiency through job training, childcare, and basic support. Average monthly benefit: $545 for a family of 3, but varies by state (e.g., $215 in Alabama vs. $925 in Massachusetts). It’s separate from SNAP—your card has two balances: food (SNAP) and cash (TANF/GA).
Who Qualifies for EBT Cash Benefits?
Eligibility is state-run but follows federal baselines: low-income families with kids, U.S. citizens/qualified immigrants, and cooperation with work/child support rules. Key criteria:
- Family: Minor child(ren) under 18 (or 19 if in school); pregnant women in some states.
- Income: Gross ≤50–130% federal poverty level (FPL); net ≤100% FPL (e.g., $2,798/month gross for family of 3 at 130% FPL).
- Assets: ≤$2,000–$3,000 (excludes home/car).
- Work: 20–35 hours/week in job/training (exemptions for disabled/caregivers).
- Other: Can’t receive SSI; must assign child support rights (exemptions for abuse).
Many SNAP households qualify automatically via “categorical eligibility.” Apply via your state’s human services site; approval: 30 days.
How Does EBT Cash Work?
Your state loads funds monthly onto your EBT card (or direct deposit in some areas). It carries over (no “use it or lose it”). Renew every 6–12 months; report changes (e.g., income) within 10 days. Work requirements apply—noncompliance leads to reductions.
What Can You Buy with EBT Cash Benefits? (And What Is It Used For?)
Unlike SNAP, EBT cash is flexible for “living expenses” to build stability—no federal list, but states prohibit alcohol, tobacco, lottery, or gambling. Common uses:
- Housing (rent/utilities).
- Childcare/transportation.
- Non-food essentials (diapers, clothing, toiletries).
- Household items (cleaning supplies).
- Bills (via cash withdrawal or online in some states).
Prohibited: Luxury items, restricted venues (e.g., casinos). It’s for self-sufficiency, not long-term aid.
How to Use EBT Cash: In-Store, ATM, and Online
- In-Store: Swipe like debit at any EBT-accepting retailer (grocery, pharmacy, etc.); select “cash” for non-food. Get cashback ($10–$200, store-dependent).
- ATM Withdrawal: Insert card, enter PIN, select “checking” (cash balance). Limits: $200–$500/day; 2–4 free/month, then $0.45–$3 fee. Use Quest®/NYCE ATMs to avoid surcharges.
- Online (2025): Limited—Walmart/Amazon accept for eligible items (non-food, fees); select “Cash EBT” at checkout. Not all states; expanding pilots. No online for SNAP-only.
Banks and ATMs for EBT Cash Withdrawals
Most banks with Quest®/Allpoint networks accept EBT cash (no SNAP withdrawals). Fee-free options:
| Bank/Network | Details | Locations |
|---|---|---|
| Bank of America | Free withdrawals; Quest® network. | 4,000+ nationwide. |
| Wells Fargo | Allpoint network; no EBT fees. | 11,000+ ATMs. |
| Chase | Free for EBT; in-store ATMs. | Urban/suburban focus. |
| Citibank/HSBC | 24/7 access; no fees. | 4,000+ machines. |
| MoneyPass/Allpoint | Surcharge-free; app locator. | 40,000+ nationwide. |
State-Specific: North Carolina EBT Cash Benefits (TANF/Work First)
NC’s Work First (TANF) provides $318/month max for family of 3 (18% FPL). Eligibility: Kids under 18, income <100% FPL, 30-hour work rule. Apply via ePASS; benefits on EBT card (1-888-622-7328). November 2025: Full loads despite delays. 2-year limit; child support required.
State-Specific: Alabama EBT Cash Benefits (TANF/Family Assistance)
Alabama’s Family Assistance: $215/month max for family of 3 (13% FPL, lowest nationally). Eligibility: Child under 18, income <$344 net, JOBS program (40 hours/week). Apply via MyDHR; EBT deposits 4th–23rd by case number. No asset limit; 48-month limit.
State-Specific: Massachusetts EBT Cash Benefits (TANF/TAFDC)
MA’s TAFDC: Up to $861/month for family of 3 (post-10% increase April 2025). Eligibility: Pregnant/parent with child under 18, income <130% FPL, work program. Apply via DTA Connect; EBT twice monthly. 75¢ fee after 3rd ATM/month; child support pass-through. No lifetime limit for some.
For personalized help, visit Benefits.gov or call 211. Rules evolve—verify with your state.
Last Updated: November 25, 2025. Sources: USDA, state agencies.
