Michigan EBT Card Basics: What to Know Before You Apply

If you live in Michigan and need help paying for groceries, you may have heard about the Michigan EBT card. This card is how many residents receive and use their food assistance benefits from the state.

This guide from HowToGetAssistance.org explains, in plain language, how the Michigan EBT card typically works, who often qualifies, what to expect from the process, and how to avoid common problems. This site is not a government office or application portal, but it can help you understand how to move forward through official channels.

What Is the Michigan EBT Card?

In Michigan, an EBT card (Electronic Benefit Transfer card) is a plastic card that works much like a debit card. It is usually called the Michigan Bridge Card.

The card is used to access benefits from programs such as:

• Food Assistance Program (FAP) – Michigan’s name for SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)
• Cash assistance (Family Independence Program or Refugee Cash Assistance), if you qualify

Key points:

• Your benefits are loaded electronically onto your Michigan Bridge Card each month.
• You swipe the card and enter a PIN to pay for approved items.
• You cannot withdraw food benefits as cash; they can only be used for approved food purchases.
• If you also get cash assistance, those funds may be accessed at certain ATMs or used for purchases where debit cards are accepted.

Who Typically Qualifies for Michigan EBT (Food Assistance)?

To receive food benefits on a Michigan EBT card, you generally must be approved for the Food Assistance Program (FAP) through the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS).

Eligibility usually depends on:

• Household income
• Household size
• Expenses (such as rent, utilities, child care, and in some cases medical expenses)
• Citizenship or certain immigration status
• Michigan residency

Common Groups Who May Qualify

People who often qualify for Michigan food assistance include:

• Low-income families with children
• Single adults with limited income
• Older adults (60+) with low income and high medical costs
• People with disabilities living on a limited income
• Working households whose wages are not enough to cover basic needs

Income limits and rules can change and may be different for each household situation. For the most accurate information, you would need to use the official benefits portal or contact your local MDHHS office.

What Can You Buy With a Michigan EBT Card?

If you are approved for food assistance, your EBT card (Michigan Bridge Card) can be used to buy eligible food items at participating stores, and in some cases at farmers markets.

Commonly Allowed Food Purchases

You can usually use food benefits to buy:

• Fruits and vegetables
• Meat, poultry, and fish
• Dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt)
• Bread, cereal, rice, and pasta
• Snack foods and non-alcoholic drinks
• Seeds and plants that produce food for the household

Items You Cannot Buy With Food Assistance

Food benefits cannot be used for:

• Alcohol or tobacco
• Vitamins or medicines
• Hot foods ready to eat (like many deli items or restaurant meals), except in limited special circumstances
• Non-food items such as:
  • Cleaning supplies
  • Paper products
  • Pet food
  • Toiletries and cosmetics

If you also receive cash assistance, that part of your benefits has fewer purchase restrictions, but there are still rules about misuse. The official MDHHS resources or your caseworker can explain those details.

How to Apply for Michigan Food Assistance (to Get an EBT Card)

You cannot apply through HowToGetAssistance.org. Michigan residents usually apply through MDHHS using one of these methods:

1. Online – Through Michigan’s official benefits portal (often listed on the MDHHS website).
2. By mail or fax – After downloading and completing the official application form.
3. In person – At your local MDHHS office.

Because addresses, fax numbers, and website links can change, it is safest to:

• Look up “Michigan Department of Health and Human Services food assistance” using a trusted search engine, or
• Call MDHHS or 2-1-1 (the general community resource line) and ask for the official food assistance application options.

Documents You May Need to Apply

Having the right documents ready can prevent delays. MDHHS may request different information based on your situation, but common items include:

Identity and status:

• Photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, or other government ID)
• Social Security numbers for household members applying, if available
• Proof of citizenship or eligible immigration status, in some cases

Residence and household:

• Proof of Michigan address (lease, utility bill, official mail)
• Names and birthdates for everyone living in your household

Income and expenses:

• Pay stubs or proof of earnings (for the last 30 days, or as requested)
• Benefit award letters (Social Security, unemployment, pensions, etc.)
• Child support orders or payment records (paid or received)
• Rent or mortgage statement
• Utility bills (gas, electric, water, trash, phone, etc.)
• Childcare costs (if you pay for childcare so you can work or attend school)
• For older adults or people with disabilities: medical expense records (prescriptions, doctor visits, premiums), when allowed

You do not always need every item listed, but the more accurate information you provide, the smoother the process typically is.

What Happens After You Apply?

Once you submit a food assistance application through MDHHS, a few standard steps usually follow:

1. Application Review

The agency reviews your form to see:

• If it is complete, and
• Whether you appear to meet basic eligibility.

If something is missing, they may send a request for more information with a deadline.

2. Interview

Most applicants are asked to complete an interview with an MDHHS worker. This can often be done:

• By phone, or
• In person at the local office.

During the interview, they typically:

• Confirm your household members
• Review your income and expenses
• Ask follow-up questions about your situation
• Explain your rights and responsibilities

3. Verification

MDHHS may ask you to provide supporting documents to verify:

• Income
• Housing costs
• Identity and citizenship or eligible immigration status
• Childcare or medical expenses

These documents often need to be turned in by a specific due date. Missing that deadline is a common reason applications are delayed or denied.

4. Approval or Denial Notice

When a decision is made, you should receive an official notice that tells you:

• Whether you are approved or denied
• How much your monthly benefit will be, if approved
• The start date of benefits
• How long your certification period lasts (how long your benefits are approved before review)

If you are approved, you will be issued a Michigan Bridge Card if you do not already have one.

Getting and Activating Your Michigan Bridge Card

If you are new to the program, you will usually receive your Michigan Bridge Card by mail after approval.

Typical steps to start using your card:

1. Receive the card in the mail (keep the envelope and papers).
2. Call the EBT customer service number on the back of the card to:
   • Verify your identity
   • Choose a 4-digit PIN
3. Sign the back of the card.
4. Store your card and your PIN separately and in safe places.

Once activated, your food benefits will usually be available on a set day each month, based on rules set by the state. Your notice or the official hotline can tell you your specific benefit availability date.

How to Use Your Michigan EBT Card at the Store

Using your Michigan Bridge Card is similar to using a debit card:

1. Shop for your groceries and go to the checkout.
2. Swipe or insert your card at the terminal.
3. Select “EBT” or the option for food benefits.
4. Enter your 4-digit PIN.
5. The system automatically:
   • Deducts the food items from your food assistance balance, and
   • Applies any cash benefits (if you have them and choose that option).

You can ask the cashier or look at your receipt to see your remaining balance. You can also check your balance:

• By calling the EBT customer service number on the back of your card
• Through the official EBT website or mobile options listed in your card materials

Keeping Your EBT Card Safe and Secure

Treat your Michigan Bridge Card like cash:

• Do not share your PIN with anyone, including friends or relatives you do not fully trust.
• Do not give your card number and PIN to anyone who calls, texts, or messages you asking for it.
• Avoid writing your PIN on the card or keeping it in your wallet.

If your card is lost, stolen, or damaged:

• Call the EBT customer service number on the back of the card paperwork or on the MDHHS website.
• Report the problem right away to protect your benefits.
• Follow the instructions to request a replacement card, which is usually mailed to you.

Common Reasons for Delays or Denials

Not every application is approved. Some common reasons for delays or denials include:

• Missing documents – Not turning in pay stubs, proof of address, or other requested items on time.
• Incomplete application – Leaving out key information about household members or income.
• Income above the limit – The household’s income may be too high for the program.
• Not completing the interview – Missing or not rescheduling your required interview.
• Residency issues – Not being able to show that you live in Michigan.
• Inconsistent information – Differences between what is reported and what documents show.

If you receive a denial notice and you disagree, read the letter carefully. It should tell you:

• Why the decision was made, and
• How to appeal if you believe the decision is incorrect.

How Appeals Usually Work in Michigan

If you believe your food assistance was wrongly denied, stopped, or reduced, you generally have the right to request a hearing.

Typical appeal steps:

1. Read your notice carefully. It should state how many days you have to appeal (there is often a deadline).
2. Follow the appeal instructions in the notice. This may involve:
   • Completing a hearing request form, or
   • Writing a short letter and sending it to the address listed, or
   • Contacting your local MDHHS office directly.
3. At the hearing:
   • You can explain your situation to a hearing officer.
   • You can bring documents or witnesses to support your case.
   • You may also ask someone to represent or assist you, such as a legal aid organization.

For help understanding your rights, you can contact legal aid services in Michigan or ask your local MDHHS office for information about the hearing process.

Recertification and Reporting Changes

Food assistance is usually approved for a set period (called a certification period). Before that period ends, you typically must:

• Complete a renewal/recertification form, and
• Possibly do another interview.

If you miss your recertification deadline, your benefits may stop. The notice you receive will explain:

• When your benefits are set to end
• What you need to submit by which date

You are also usually required to report certain changes such as:

• A significant change in income
• A change in household size (someone moves in or out)
• A change in address or shelter costs

The official notice from MDHHS or your caseworker can tell you which changes must be reported and how quickly.

If You Don’t Qualify for Michigan EBT Food Assistance

If you do not qualify for the Michigan Food Assistance Program, or if you are waiting on an application decision, there may be other options:

• Food pantries and community food banks
  • Many communities have local food pantries that give out free groceries regardless of EBT eligibility.
• Community meal sites or soup kitchens
  • These may offer prepared meals at no cost.
• Senior nutrition programs
  • Older adults may be able to access senior-specific meal services or home-delivered meals.
• WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)
  • Pregnant individuals, new parents, infants, and young children may qualify for WIC, which is separate from SNAP/FAP.
• 211 helpline
  • Dialing 2-1-1 can connect you with local food resources, shelters, and assistance programs in Michigan.

Program rules and availability vary by community, so it helps to call ahead or speak with a local agency.

How to Make Sure You Are Using Official Michigan Channels

Because EBT benefits involve money for groceries, scams do happen. To protect yourself:

• Do not apply for benefits or share personal details on random websites or social media pages.
• Be cautious of anyone who:
  • Promises guaranteed approval for a fee
  • Asks for your card number and PIN
  • Claims to be from the government but contacts you from personal email addresses or unofficial phone numbers

Ways to verify you are on an official channel:

• Confirm you are dealing with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) or the official state benefits portal.
• Access MDHHS contact information:
  • By checking printed materials from an MDHHS office, or
  • By using a trusted search engine to find the official Michigan government website, or
  • By calling 2-1-1 and asking how to contact your local MDHHS office.
• Use the phone numbers listed on your official notices, your Bridge Card paperwork, or posted within MDHHS offices.

If something seems suspicious, you can hang up, close the website, or visit your local MDHHS office in person to verify.

Quick Reference: Michigan EBT Card Basics at a Glance

This overview is meant to help you understand the basics of the Michigan EBT card and how the process generally works, so you can approach the official application channels prepared and confident. For specific eligibility details, current forms, and application steps, you would need to contact MDHHS or visit the official state benefits portal.