If you’re a fan of delicious pastries and tasty drinks, you’ve probably heard of 85 Degrees Bakery Cafe. They have a bunch of yummy treats, but if you’re using a program like EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) for your groceries, you might be wondering: Does 85 Degrees accept EBT? Let’s dive in and get you some answers. We’ll cover the basics of EBT, how it works at different stores, and whether you can use it to satisfy your sweet tooth at 85 Degrees.
Does 85 Degrees Take EBT Cards?
To get right to the point: As of my last update, 85 Degrees Bakery Cafe does NOT accept EBT cards as a form of payment. This means that if you have an EBT card, you won’t be able to use it to buy anything at their stores.
What is EBT and How Does It Work?
EBT is like a debit card for people who get help with food and other necessities. It’s funded by the government and allows people to buy food at certain stores. The money is put on the card each month, and you can use it to purchase eligible food items. The program helps families and individuals with low incomes access nutritious food. It’s a really important program that helps a lot of people.
EBT is mostly used for groceries. It helps families stretch their budgets and ensure they have access to healthy foods. The rules about what you can and can’t buy with EBT are pretty specific. For example, you can usually buy:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Dairy products
- Breads and cereals
- Seeds and plants to grow food
You can’t usually buy things like alcohol, tobacco, or hot prepared foods. Different states might have slightly different rules.
Using your EBT card at the checkout is usually pretty simple. You swipe your card, enter your PIN, and the system automatically deducts the amount from your benefits. It’s a convenient and discreet way to pay for groceries, just like using a regular debit card. It’s a vital resource for many families.
Why Doesn’t 85 Degrees Accept EBT?
There are a few reasons why a business like 85 Degrees might not accept EBT. One major factor is that the EBT system is primarily designed for purchasing groceries and other essential food items. Bakeries, while selling food, often focus on prepared foods and treats, which may not meet the criteria for EBT eligibility. The costs of setting up the payment system and going through the inspection process may also be a reason.
Another thing to keep in mind is the type of items typically sold at 85 Degrees. Their menu often includes:
- Cakes and pastries
- Coffee and other beverages
- Prepared sandwiches
- Specialty breads
These types of items, especially prepared foods, are often not covered by EBT. The goal of EBT is to help people buy the ingredients to make food at home.
Finally, the decision to accept EBT also comes down to the business owner’s choice. Setting up the ability to accept EBT cards means meeting certain standards and paying fees. If the owner doesn’t think it’s worth it or believes their products don’t fall under EBT guidelines, they might choose not to accept it. This can vary from store to store, so it’s always a good idea to double-check at the specific location.
What Other Payment Options Are Available at 85 Degrees?
If you can’t use EBT, don’t worry! 85 Degrees usually accepts other forms of payment. They typically take cash, which is always a reliable option. They also accept major credit cards, like Visa, Mastercard, and American Express, making it easy to pay.
Besides those, many 85 Degrees locations also allow for digital payments, like Apple Pay and Google Pay. These are convenient ways to pay using your phone, making the checkout process faster. Also, they accept different methods of payment, depending on the location. It’s always a good idea to inquire with the staff about their options.
Keep in mind that payment options might vary slightly depending on the specific 85 Degrees location. To avoid any surprises, it’s always wise to check with the particular store before you head there. You can usually find this information on their website or by calling them. This helps ensure that you can pay with the method you prefer, allowing you to enjoy your favorite treats without any trouble.
| Payment Type | Likely Accepted? |
|---|---|
| Cash | Yes |
| Credit Cards (Visa, Mastercard, etc.) | Yes |
| EBT | No |
| Mobile Pay (Apple Pay, Google Pay) | Yes, at most locations |
Finding Similar Businesses That Might Accept EBT
If you’re looking for places to use your EBT card, there are plenty of options! The most common places to use EBT are grocery stores and supermarkets. You can use your card to buy all sorts of food items, from fresh produce to meat and dairy. Remember to always check the eligibility of the items you want to buy with your EBT card.
Farmers’ markets are another great place to use your EBT card. Many farmers’ markets participate in EBT programs, allowing you to buy fresh, local produce directly from farmers. Look for signs indicating EBT acceptance. In addition to farmers’ markets, some smaller convenience stores also participate in the EBT program, so it’s worth checking your local stores.
For more specific information, you can try:
- Searching online for “EBT-accepting stores near me.”
- Contacting your local Department of Social Services or similar agency.
- Checking online resources or websites for EBT information in your state.
These resources can help you find places where you can use your EBT benefits to purchase groceries and other eligible food items. Remember that rules can change, so it is always a good idea to confirm the information by contacting the business or government agency directly.
In conclusion, while it’s a bummer that you can’t use your EBT card at 85 Degrees, there are many other ways to enjoy their delicious treats by using other methods of payment! Plus, you can always look for grocery stores and farmers’ markets that do accept EBT, ensuring you still have access to the food you need. Enjoy your snacks!