Minnesota EBT Card Basics: What It Is, Who Qualifies, and How to Use It

The Minnesota EBT card is a plastic card that works like a debit card to access certain public benefits, most commonly food assistance (SNAP) and sometimes cash benefits (such as Minnesota Family Investment Program, or MFIP).

This guide from HowToGetAssistance.org explains how the card typically works in Minnesota, who usually qualifies, what to expect when applying through official state channels, and how to avoid common problems. This site is not an official government agency and cannot process applications, but it can help you understand the basics so you can use the official Minnesota systems more confidently.

What Is the Minnesota EBT Card?

In Minnesota, an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card is used to safely receive and spend benefits from programs such as:

• SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) – food benefits
• Cash programs (for some households), such as:
  • MFIP (Minnesota Family Investment Program)
  • General Assistance (GA)
  • Minnesota Supplemental Aid (MSA)

How the EBT Card Works

Your Minnesota EBT card:

• Looks and works like a debit card
• Has a PIN (Personal Identification Number) for security
• Is loaded electronically with benefits on a scheduled day each month
• Can be used at authorized grocery stores and retailers that accept EBT
• For cash benefits, may be used at ATMs or certain stores for cash withdrawals

You do not receive cash or paper food stamps directly; everything is handled electronically through the EBT system.

SNAP vs. Cash Benefits on a Minnesota EBT Card

Some Minnesota households only have SNAP (food) benefits, while others may have both SNAP and cash benefits on the same card. The exact mix depends on which programs you are approved for by your county or tribal human services agency.

Here is a simple comparison:

Your EBT card will automatically separate food and cash at checkout if you have both types.

Who Typically Qualifies for a Minnesota EBT Card?

You do not apply for an “EBT card” by itself. Instead, you apply for programs like SNAP or MFIP through your county or tribal human services office or the official Minnesota benefits portal. If you are approved for one of these programs, an EBT card is usually issued automatically.

Common Eligibility Factors for SNAP in Minnesota

While exact rules can change, these are common factors Minnesota agencies look at for SNAP:

• Income level – Your household income must typically be below a maximum limit based on:
  • How many people live and eat with you
  • Your gross and net income
• Citizenship or immigration status – U.S. citizens and many lawfully present non‑citizens may qualify; some non‑citizens may have restrictions.
• Residency – You must live in Minnesota.
• Household size – Including children, other relatives, and sometimes unrelated people who buy and prepare food together.
• Assets/resources – Some households, especially those with older adults or people with disabilities, may have asset limits.
• Student status – College students have special SNAP rules.
• Work requirements – Certain adults may need to meet work or job‑search rules (for example, Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents, often called ABAWDs).

For cash programs like MFIP, GA, or MSA, there are additional rules related to:

• Children in the home (for MFIP)
• Disability status (for some programs)
• Unemployment or underemployment
• Housing situation and financial need

Because rules can be detailed and vary by situation, it is usually best to contact your county or tribal human services office or the official state benefits hotline for personalized guidance.

Documents You May Need to Apply

When you apply for SNAP or cash assistance in Minnesota, you are often asked to verify information. Having documents ready can speed up your case.

Commonly requested documents include:

• Identity
  • Driver’s license or state ID
  • Passport
  • Birth certificate
  • Tribal ID
• Social Security numbers (for people who have them)
• Proof of Minnesota residence
  • Lease or rental agreement
  • Utility bill with your name and address
  • Official mail from a government agency
• Income verification
  • Recent pay stubs
  • Self-employment records
  • Unemployment benefit statements
  • Social Security or pension award letters
• Expenses
  • Rent or mortgage statement
  • Utility bills (electric, gas, water, trash, phone, internet if required)
  • Child care receipts or provider statement
  • Child support payments made or received
• Immigration status (if applicable)
  • Permanent resident card, work authorization, or other official documents
• Medical or disability documentation (for certain cash programs)

Not every household needs every document. Your local county/tribal office will tell you what they need based on your situation and may help you figure out alternatives if you cannot find a specific document.

How to Apply for Benefits That Use a Minnesota EBT Card

Again, you are not applying for the card itself. You apply for SNAP and/or cash programs, and the EBT card is the tool to access approved benefits.

In Minnesota, most people apply in one of three main ways:

1. Online Through the Official State Portal

Minnesota has an official online benefits portal where you can:

• Start a new application for SNAP, MFIP, and other programs
• Save your progress and return later
• Upload certain documents
• Check messages from your county, in some cases

To find this portal, search for terms like:

• “Minnesota SNAP apply online”
• “MN benefits portal”
• “Apply for cash assistance Minnesota”

Make sure the website clearly shows Minnesota government or county/tribal human services branding.

2. In Person at Your County or Tribal Human Services Office

You can also apply by:

• Visiting your county human services office (for example, Hennepin County, Ramsey County, etc.)
• Visiting your tribal human services office if you live in a tribal community that manages its own programs

At the office, you can usually:

• Pick up a paper application
• Get help filling it out
• Turn in supporting documents
• Ask in-person questions

If you are unsure which office serves you, you can:

• Call your county government main number and ask for the human services or social services department
• Call 211 for local information and referral

3. By Mail or Fax

Some people prefer to:

• Print the official application form from the Minnesota government website, or
• Pick up a form from the county/tribal office and take it home

You can typically mail or fax the completed form to your official county or tribal office. The address and fax number are usually printed on the form itself or available through the county.

What Happens After You Apply?

Once you submit your application through official channels, a typical timeline might look like this (exact timing can vary by county and workload):

1. Application received

   • Your county or tribal office records the date your application was submitted.
   • This date can affect when your benefits, if approved, will start.

2. Screening for expedited SNAP (emergency food)

   • Some households with very low income and resources may qualify for expedited SNAP, meaning benefits could be available faster (often within a few days if approved).
   • You do not need a separate application; the office screens your answers.

3. Interview

   • Many applicants must complete an interview by phone or in person.
   • During the interview, a worker:
     • Reviews your application
     • Asks follow-up questions
     • Explains your rights and responsibilities

4. Verification of documents

   • If anything is missing, your worker usually sends you a request for information with a deadline.
   • You’ll be asked to submit proof (like pay stubs, lease, bills) by a certain date.

5. Eligibility decision

   • The agency reviews your information and decides whether you qualify and for how much.
   • You should receive a written notice telling you:
     • Whether you are approved or denied
     • How much you’ll receive
     • When benefits will start and be loaded on the EBT card
     • How long your certification period will last (when you must renew)

6. EBT card issued

   • If approved and you do not already have a card:
     • An EBT card is usually mailed to your address, or
     • In some cases, you may be able to pick it up at the local office
   • You then set up or confirm your PIN.

If you are concerned about delays, contact your county/tribal office or the program’s official hotline to confirm they received your application and check what is still needed.

Using Your Minnesota EBT Card at Stores and ATMs

Once you have your card and your PIN, you can begin using it according to your benefit type.

Where You Can Use SNAP Benefits

You can typically use SNAP funds at:

• Grocery stores and supermarkets
• Many smaller food markets and convenience stores that are authorized
• Some farmers markets and farm stands that accept EBT
• Some online grocery retailers participating in the SNAP online purchasing program

With SNAP, you can usually buy:

• Fruits and vegetables
• Meat, fish, poultry
• Bread, grains, and cereals
• Dairy products
• Seeds and plants to grow food for your household

You cannot use SNAP to buy:

• Alcohol or tobacco
• Vitamins, medicines, or supplements
• Hot prepared foods meant to be eaten right away (like hot deli items)
• Non-food items (cleaning products, soap, pet food, paper goods, etc.)

Using Cash Benefits

If your EBT card also has cash benefits, you may:

• Withdraw cash at participating ATMs
• Get cash back with a purchase at some stores
• Pay for items where cash or debit is accepted

Be aware:

• Some ATMs or stores may charge fees.
• You are responsible for tracking how much cash you take out and how you use it.

Basic Steps to Use the Card at Checkout

1. Tell the cashier you are using EBT (or select EBT on the payment terminal).
2. If you have both SNAP and cash on the card, choose “EBT Food” or “EBT Cash” when prompted.
3. Swipe or insert your card and enter your PIN.
4. Check the receipt, which should show:
   • The purchase amount
   • Your remaining balance

Checking Your Minnesota EBT Balance

You usually have several ways to check your EBT balance:

• At the bottom of your store receipt after each purchase
• By calling the EBT customer service number listed on the back of your card
• Through an official EBT website or mobile app (if available in Minnesota)

When using a website or app, always verify that it is clearly associated with the official Minnesota EBT system or the card vendor identified on your card.

Common Reasons for Delays or Denials

Minnesota households sometimes face delays or denials for reasons such as:

• Missing documents
  • Income, ID, or residency proof not turned in by the deadline the agency set.
• Missed interview
  • Not completing the required phone or in-person interview.
• Incomplete application
  • Important sections left blank or unclear.
• Income above the limit
  • Household income is higher than what the program allows for your family size.
• Not meeting specific program rules
  • For example, work requirements, student rules, or citizenship/immigration guidelines.

If you receive a denial notice:

• Read it carefully to understand the reason.
• Check for any deadlines to appeal if you think the decision is wrong.
• You can usually ask for a fair hearing or appeal through your county or the state.

Exact appeal procedures are explained in the official notice. If you are unsure, contact your county human services office or the official program hotline and ask how to request a hearing.

How Reviews, Recertification, and Changes Usually Work

Once you are approved, your case is not “permanent.” Most programs require periodic updates.

Periodic Reviews (Recertification)

For SNAP and cash programs in Minnesota, you usually must:

• Complete a recertification after a set number of months.
• Provide updated information about:
  • Income and employment
  • Household members
  • Housing costs and other expenses
• Sometimes attend another interview.

If you miss the recertification deadline, your benefits may stop even if you still qualify. Watch your mail and notices closely.

Reporting Changes

You may be required to report certain changes within a specific timeframe, such as:

• Starting or stopping a job
• Income going up or down
• Moving to a new address
• A person moving in or out of your household
• Changes in childcare or shelter costs

Your approval notice usually lists which changes you must report and by when. You can typically report changes:

• Through the official benefits portal
• By calling your county/tribal office
• By mail, fax, or in person at your local office

Reporting accurately helps prevent overpayments, which the agency may later ask you to repay.

If You Don’t Qualify or Need More Help

If you are not eligible for SNAP or cash benefits, or if your benefits are not enough to cover all your needs, other resources may be available.

Consider checking:

• Local food shelves and pantries – Your county social services or 211 can give you locations and hours.
• Community meal programs – Soup kitchens, community centers, and faith-based groups often serve meals.
• WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) – For pregnant people, new parents, and children under 5 who meet income and nutrition guidelines.
• Housing and utility assistance programs – Some counties and nonprofits help with rent, deposits, heating, or electricity bills.
• Employment and training programs – Many communities offer help with job search, training, and resume support.

Calling 211 from anywhere in Minnesota can connect you with a free, confidential referral service that lists local resources.

Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Minnesota EBT Cards

If your card is lost, stolen, or damaged:

1. Call the EBT customer service number immediately (printed on official notices and usually on the back of the card).
2. Report the problem so your card can be canceled and a new one issued.
3. Follow the instructions for getting a replacement card:
   • Some replacements are mailed to you.
   • In some areas, you may be able to pick up a card at your local office.

Act quickly. Generally, if someone uses your benefits before you report the card lost or stolen, those benefits are not replaced.

Protecting Yourself from EBT Scams in Minnesota

Because benefits are valuable, scammers sometimes target EBT users. To protect yourself:

• Never share your PIN with anyone, including friends, roommates, or people who say they are from the government.
• Avoid giving card details (card number, PIN, security codes) to anyone who contacts you by:
  • Text
  • Email
  • Social media
  • Unsolicited phone calls
• Be cautious of:
  • Websites or apps that ask for your PIN but do not clearly show official Minnesota or EBT card branding.
  • People offering to “buy” your card or trade it for cash at a discount.
  • QR codes or links posted in public places that claim to “boost benefits” or give “free extra EBT money.”

If you suspect fraud:

• Call the EBT customer service number on the back of your card.
• Contact your county or tribal human services office.
• You may also ask how to formally report suspected fraud through official state channels.

To make sure you are using an official system, check for:

• Clear Minnesota government or county human services identification
• Contact phone numbers that match listings from:
  • Your county government website
  • Printed notices you received by mail from the county or state

Key Takeaways: Next Steps for Minnesota EBT Users

• The Minnesota EBT card is a tool to access SNAP food benefits and sometimes cash assistance.
• You don’t apply for the card itself; you apply for programs like SNAP, MFIP, GA, or MSA through your county or tribal human services office or the official state benefits portal.
• Be ready to provide proof of identity, income, residence, and expenses to avoid delays.
• Watch for interview requests and document deadlines, and check your mail and notices regularly.
• Use your EBT card only at authorized locations, and never share your PIN.
• If denied or closed, read your notice and consider using the appeal or fair hearing process if you disagree.
• For more help, reach out directly to your local human services office, the program’s official hotline, or 211 for local resource referrals.

HowToGetAssistance.org cannot process applications or handle case issues, but understanding these Minnesota EBT card basics can help you work more smoothly with the official agencies that do.