Families First Card Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT)
What is EBT?
EBT stands for Electronic Benefits Transfer. Through the Electronic Benefits Transfer System, the Division has created a "Families First" debit card that is utilized by WFNJ recipients to purchase food and to access cash benefits. EBT offers welfare recipients the experience of doing business like other consumers and is time- and cost-effective for merchants because it eliminates the use of food coupons. Moreover, the system has proven helpful in preventing fraud associated with food stamp trafficking.
Work First NJ TANF clients in every county are issued the Families First card to access cash assistance and food stamp benefits. Work First NJ GA clients receive these benefits via check.
The EBT card is similar to a bank card, with a secret Personal Identification Number (PIN) to use the benefits that are deposited into an account - just for you. Once your benefits are deposited into your account, you can begin using your card.
You can use your card at the grocery store to spend your Food Stamp benefits.
You can also use your card at the grocery store to spend your cash benefits for items that cannot be paid for with food stamps.
At some stores, you can use your card to withdraw your cash benefits.
- Before you begin shopping, make sure the store accepts the card; look for the Quest ® logo in the windows or on the doors at the store. If you don't see the Quest ® logo, go to the courtesy counter and ask if the store accepts the Families First card.
Families First cards may not be used to access cash benefits from the following locations:
Liquor stores;
Casinos/gaming establishments; and
Retail establishments providing adult entertainment, such as strip clubs.
Click here for the 2011 EBT brochure in English (.pdf)
Click here for the 2011 EBT brochure in Spanish (.pdf)
