The Propel Guide To EBT In Rhode Island
Keeping track of all the EBT information out there can be overwhelming. So, we’ve broken down all the basics in one handy guide.
If you have a question that we haven’t answered here, let us know.
Keeping track of all the EBT information out there can be overwhelming. So, we’ve broken down all the basics in one handy guide.
If you have a question that we haven’t answered here, let us know.
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What's the Rhode Island Electronic Benefit Transfer Card?
The Rhode Island Electronic Benefit Transfer Card is Rhode Island’s EBT card.
EBT = electronic benefits transfer.
EBT card = a card that looks and works like a debit or credit card but is loaded with food stamps (also known as SNAP benefits) and/or cash benefits. You can use it at stores that accept EBT.
You’ll get the Rhode Island Electronic Benefit Transfer Card once you’re approved for benefits.
Rhode Island’s EBT customer service number is 1-888-979-9939.
How do I apply for food stamps?
The easiest way to apply for food stamps is online. If you’d rather apply in person, call your local office or the Rhode Island SNAP hotline (1-855-697-4347) to find out how.
How do I renew my food stamps?
You’ll have to renew your food stamps before your certification period (the amount of time you’ll get food stamps) ends. That period is 12 months for most Rhode Island households.
You’ll get a letter in the mail when it’s time to reapply. To be safe, you could also put a note in your calendar or wherever you keep important reminders.
You can renew your benefits online with a HealthSource RI account.
If you’d rather renew in person, call your caseworker, local office, or the Rhode Island SNAP hotline (1-855-697-4347) to find out how.
When will I get my food stamps?
Rhode Island sends out benefits on the first day of every month.
What household changes do I have to report and when?
You should report:
- If anyone moves in or out of your household.
- Financial changes like income, rent, savings, or child support.
- Work changes. Does your household include an adult who doesn’t have a disability or a child (what the government calls an ABAWD)? Is this person required to work or train 20 hours/week? Then you should report if this person starts working or training less than 20 hours/week.
Most households have to report all changes no more than 10 days after they happen, but some don’t. Your caseworker can confirm which rules apply to your household. If you are moving, you should report your new address ASAP to make sure you don’t miss any important letters.
You can report changes online with a HealthSource RI account.
How do I replace a lost or stolen EBT card?
If you can’t find your EBT card, call the Rhode Island EBT hotline as soon as you can: 1-888-979-9939.
My benefits were stolen off my EBT card. What can I do?
Call the Rhode Island EBT hotline number at 1-888-979-9939. Your state may require you to change your PIN, report your card stolen, and/or request a new card.
If your benefits were electronically stolen in or after October 2022 (e.g., through skimming or phishing), you may be eligible to apply for reimbursement. Learn more about your state’s process.
What can I buy with EBT?
You can use food stamps to buy groceries, snacks, and seeds or plants that will produce food.
You can’t use food stamps to buy alcohol, tobacco products, vitamins, live animals, prepared foods, or any non-food household items.
WIC food packages typically include cereal, juice, eggs, milk, peanut butter, dried and canned beans, tofu, fruits and vegetables, and whole-wheat bread. WIC packages also include canned fish and cheese for breastfeeding moms, and baby food for babies.
Which stores and restaurants take EBT food stamps?
Download Propel to see nearby stores and farmer’s markets that take EBT. You don’t need an account to use the map. If you’re 60 or older, disabled, or homeless, you can also use EBT at some Subway restaurants. New restaurants will be joining this program soon.
Can I get any discounts with my EBT card?
Yes! Your EBT card can get you and your family discounted or free admission to museums, theme parks, zoos, aquariums, and more.
Can I get more food stamps if I’m pregnant or a new parent?
Once your child is born, your household size will increase. More household members = more benefits.
While you are pregnant, you can’t get more food stamps, but you can apply for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) benefits.
WIC provides food and resources for pregnant women, new parents, and children up to 5 years old.
My family can’t afford other basic needs besides food.
If you have a child who’s 18 or younger, you may qualify for cash assistance through the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program.
TANF provides monthly cash assistance to help families with children get by during tough times.
Am I eligible for other benefits?
Check out this benefit finder tool and find out.
This page was written based on official government sources, and has been edited for simplicity.
We work hard to ensure this information is accurate, helpful, and up-to-date. We welcome any corrections or feedback here.