Last Updated on February 20, 2023 by Lauren Beck
Grocery shopping with food stamps or EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) is a common practice for many low-income households in the US. It helps them access nutritious food without breaking their budget.
However, not all grocery stores accept EBT payments, leaving many customers wondering whether they can shop at their favorite store with their EBT card. In this article, we’ll answer one such question – Does GFS take food stamps?
About GFS
GFS (Gordon Food Service) is a privately-held foodservice distributor with over 200 stores across the US and Canada. It was founded in 1897 and has since grown to become one of the largest foodservice companies in North America.
GFS offers a wide range of food products, from fresh produce and meats to frozen foods and dry goods. They also sell kitchen supplies, cleaning products, and other household items.
Does GFS Take Food Stamps?
Yes, GFS takes food stamps. Customers with EBT cards can use them to purchase eligible food items at any GFS store.
How To Shop With Your EBT Card At GFS?
To shop with your EBT card at GFS, follow these steps:
- Find your nearest GFS store: You can use the GFS store locator on their website to find the closest store to your location.
- Check store hours: Make sure the store is open and check the operating hours before visiting.
- Bring your EBT card: Make sure to bring your EBT card and a valid form of ID to the store.
- Select eligible food items: Look for the “EBT approved” label on items that are eligible for purchase with your EBT card. You cannot use your EBT card to buy non-food items like cleaning products, kitchen supplies, or personal care items.
- Pay with your EBT card: When you’re ready to checkout, present your EBT card to the cashier and follow their instructions to complete the payment process.
Return Policy at GFS
GFS has a flexible return policy that allows customers to return most items within 30 days of purchase. However, if you bought an item with your EBT card and want to return it, you must present your EBT card at the time of the return. The refund will be credited back to your EBT card.
What are Alternative Payment Methods at GFS?
Besides EBT, GFS accepts other payment methods, such as cash, credit/debit cards, and checks. However, it’s worth noting that GFS doesn’t accept personal checks, so make sure to bring a valid ID and a payment method that the store accepts.
What Can You Buy At GFS With Your EBT Card?
Customers can buy most food items with their EBT card at GFS, including fresh produce, meat, dairy products, canned goods, and frozen foods. However, there are some restrictions on what you can purchase with your EBT card.
For example, you cannot use your EBT card to buy alcohol, tobacco, vitamins, or supplements. You also cannot use your EBT card to buy hot prepared foods, such as fried chicken or pizza, unless you have an authorized retailer in your area.
Items You Can’t Purchase With Your EBT Card At GFS
While most food items are eligible for purchase with EBT, there are some exclusions. Here are some of the items that you cannot buy with your EBT card at GFS:
- Non-food items, such as cleaning supplies, paper products, and personal care items.
- Hot prepared foods, unless you have an authorized retailer in your area.
- Vitamins, supplements, and herbal remedies.
- Alcohol and tobacco products.
Does GFS take coupons?
Yes, GFS accepts manufacturer’s coupons. You can use coupons to reduce the cost of your purchases at GFS, including eligible food items that you purchase with your EBT card. However, it’s important to note that GFS doesn’t accept store coupons or digital coupons, and they don’t provide rain checks or price matching.
Does Gordon Food Service ship?
Yes, Gordon Food Service offers shipping services for their products. However, it’s worth noting that their shipping service is mainly intended for commercial customers and businesses. They have a minimum order requirement of $50 for shipping, and they offer free shipping for orders over $600.
Do you need a membership to get into GFS?
No, you don’t need a membership to shop at GFS. The store is open to the public, and anyone can shop there, including customers who pay with EBT. However, GFS offers a membership program called GFS Marketplace for business customers who buy in bulk. The membership offers benefits like volume discounts, flexible payment options, and online ordering.
How to Return an Item Bought With EBT?
If you bought an item with your EBT card and want to return it, you must present your EBT card at the time of the return [1]. The refund will be credited back to your EBT card. Keep in mind that if you return an item that you paid for partly with EBT and partly with cash or another payment method, the refund will be credited back to your EBT card first, and any remaining amount will be refunded to your other payment method.
Conclusion
GFS accepts EBT payments, and customers can use their EBT card to purchase eligible food items at any GFS store. However, there are some restrictions on what you can buy with your EBT card, and you cannot use it to purchase non-food items or hot prepared foods, unless you have an authorized retailer in your area. If you need to return an item bought with your EBT card, make sure to present your EBT card at the time of the return. GFS also accepts other payment methods, such as cash, credit/debit cards, and checks, and they offer a flexible return policy for most items.
Reference:
- https://ask.usda.gov/s/article/Can-I-return-or-refund-an-item-bought-with-a-Supplemental-Nutrition-Assistance-Program-Electronic#:~:text=SNAP%20customers%20must%20be%20treated,SNAP%20benefits%20under%20any%20circumstances.
- Where To Source High-Quality Fresh Produce For Your Restaurant - March 20, 2023
- McDonald’s Dollar Menu & Prices - March 18, 2023
- Sonic Drive Thru Menu & Prices - March 18, 2023