SNAP benefits in Texas are distributed through what is called a Lone Star Card. This card is similar to the EBT cards that other states use and can be redeemed the same way you would use a credit card or debit card at any store that accepts SNAP benefit payments. 

                By                    Georgina Tzanetos

See: Claiming Social Security, SNAP and Medicare Is Now Easier Thanks to Executive Order — What’s Changing? Find: Social Security: Could the COLA Increase Reduce Your SNAP Benefits?

The Lone Star Card can be used to buy fresh groceries, vegetables, dairy, meat and poultry products. Texas residents can even buy garden seeds with Lone Star cards.

However, these SNAP cannot  be used to:

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  • Buy tobacco.
  • Buy alcoholic drinks.
  • Buy things you can’t eat or drink.
  • Pay for food bills you owe.

In Texas, most people aged 16 to 59 must follow work rules in order to receive SNAP benefits, meaning that an individual must look for a job or be in an approved work program in order to qualify. If the person already has a job, they cannot quit without good reason and still receive SNAP benefits.

Benefits are sent out over 15 days, beginning on the 1st and based on the last digit in your Eligibility Determination Group (EDG) number.

If you have any questions or concerns, you can call the Lone Star Help Desk at 800-777-7328 or use the store locator here to find a participating grocer near you.

See: What COVID-Era Programs Will Continue in 2022? Find: What 2022 Means for Stimulus Checks and the Child Tax Credit

Here’s when you’ll receive your February Lone Star Benefits:

Looking for other programs? You can find details on Medicaid, TANF and children’s medical insurance at YourTexasBenefits.com.

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