When you use 3SquaresVT benefits, you can buy the foods you like to eat. You will get a plastic card that looks like a credit card, called an Electronic Benefits Transfer or EBT card. You can use the card at most grocery stores, convenience stores, markets, and co-ops. Your 3SquaresVT benefits are added to your card at the beginning of every month and will remain on your card for up to one year.

When you use your card, the cost of the food is subtracted from your 3SquaresVT account. The cash register receipt tells you how much you have left in your 3SquaresVT account. You can also call 1-800-914-8605 or visit this website to find out how much money is left on your card.

If you are 65 or older or get SSI disability benefits, you can get your 3SquaresVT benefits deposited directly into a bank account. This gives you complete privacy when you shop because you can use cash or a check to pay for your food. If you do not have a bank account and do not want to open one, you will get your 3SquaresVT benefits on an EBT card. You can use the card at stores that accept 3SquaresVT benefits. You can also withdraw cash from your card at a bank machine.

If you do not use all of your 3SquaresVT benefits in the month, you can still use them the next month.

What can I buy with 3SquaresVT benefits?

You can use your 3SquaresVT benefits to buy:

• Cold prepared foods such as potato salad and cold sandwiches
• Fruits and vegetables
• Breads and cereals
• Dairy products
• Meats
• Snacks, candy, ice, non-alcoholic beverages
• Vegetable seeds and plants

You cannot use your 3SquaresVT benefits to buy:

• Hot prepared foods
• Wine or Beer
• Cigarettes
• Pet food
• Soap
• Paper products
• Household supplies

Click here for a list of store locations in Vermont that accept 3SquaresVT benefits as payment.

Other Program Benefits

• Fuel Assistance
  Signing up for fuel assistance may actually increase your monthly 3SquaresVT dollar amount. 3SquaresVT gives people who get fuel assistance the highest deduction for shelter costs. Click here for information on how to apply.
• Free School Meals
  Kids in 3SquaresVT households can get free school meals if their school participates in the federal school breakfast or lunch program. Click to download an application.
• Lifeline and Link Up
  People who are eligible for 3SquaresVT benefits are also eligible for Lifeline, a monthly credit of at least $13 to help households maintain phone service, and Link UP, which provides credit up to $30 to pay half the cost of installing a phone line. Click here for information on how to apply.
• VHAP Premiums
  Out of pocket medical expenses paid by people 60 and older and people with disabilities can be deducted from 3SquaresVT income. This may help some people qualify for 3SquaresVT benefits and help others get more 3SquaresVT benefits each month. Click here to download a medical expense deduction worksheet.
• TANF, Vermont Earned Income Tax Credit, SSI
  People who receive any of these benefits may befor 3SquaresVT benefits. Even if they get $0 in 3SquaresVT benefits, they are still considered "eligible" and therefore qualify for free school meals, lifeline, etc.