Racetrac does not accept EBT cards for any purchases

Racetrac is a convenience store and gas station chain, and like most gas stations, it does not take EBT. The federal SNAP program (what most people call food stamps) only covers food you prepare at home — not prepared foods, hot foods, or items sold at gas stations and convenience stores, even if those items are technically edible.

Racetrac does sell some packaged snacks and drinks that might seem like they should be covered, but the store itself is not set up to process EBT transactions. Even if it were, most of what Racetrac sells — coffee, hot sandwiches, fountain drinks, energy drinks — would not be SNAP-may be able to access anyway because they are prepared or heated on-site.

If you are looking for a place to use your EBT card, you need a grocery store, supermarket, or a store specifically authorized by the SNAP program. Walmart, Target, and most traditional grocery chains take EBT. Many smaller grocery stores and farmers markets do as well.

Key Takeaways

  • Racetrac does not process EBT payments at any of its locations.
  • SNAP covers only unprepared food you cook yourself, not prepared foods or hot items sold at gas stations.
  • Authorized grocery stores, supermarkets, and some farmers markets accept EBT; you can find them through your state's SNAP program website.
  • Convenience stores and gas stations almost never accept EBT, regardless of what food items they stock.

Why gas stations and convenience stores do not take EBT

Gas stations and convenience stores are not authorized SNAP retailers. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) maintains a list of stores that meet the requirements to accept EBT — and those requirements include having a certain inventory of fresh produce, meat, dairy, and other staple foods. A Racetrac location, which focuses on fuel and grab-and-go items, does not meet those standards.

Even if a gas station wanted to accept EBT, it would have to apply to the USDA, meet specific inventory requirements, and install the necessary payment processing equipment. Most gas stations and convenience stores choose not to pursue this because their business model does not align with SNAP's purpose, which is to help people buy groceries for home cooking.

What you can and cannot buy with EBT at authorized stores

At stores that do accept EBT, the rules are strict. You can buy fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, breads, cereals, snack foods (like chips or cookies), and non-alcoholic beverages. You cannot buy hot or prepared foods, alcohol, tobacco, vitamins, medicine, or household items like soap or paper towels.

This is why a Racetrac hot sandwich or coffee would not be covered even if the store accepted EBT — they are prepared foods. The same rule applies at delis inside grocery stores. If you buy a rotisserie chicken from a grocery store's prepared foods section, it is not covered. If you buy a raw chicken to cook at home, it is.

The distinction matters because SNAP is designed to support home cooking and meal preparation, not convenience purchases. Understanding this boundary helps you plan your shopping and know where your EBT card will and will not work.

Finding stores near you that accept EBT

Your state's SNAP program website has a store locator tool. You can search by address or zip code to see which grocery stores, supermarkets, and farmers markets in your area accept EBT. The tool is usually called "Find Authorized Retailers" or something similar.

You can also call your state's SNAP customer service line — the number is on the back of your EBT card — and ask for nearby authorized stores. Many states also have a national database you can search at fns.usda.gov/snap/retailer-locator. This database covers retailers across the country and updates regularly as stores gain or lose authorization.

What to do if you need food quickly

If you are hungry and need food right away, EBT will not help you at a gas station or convenience store. Your options depend on where you are and what resources are available locally. Food banks and pantries do not require you to have an EBT card and often have no income limits. Many communities also have meal programs at libraries, community centers, or religious organizations that serve free or low-cost meals.

If you are in crisis, call 211 (in most areas) or text your zip code to 898-211 to find food assistance, meal programs, and emergency services near you. These services are separate from EBT and can help you get food the same day or within a few hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my EBT card at any convenience store?

No. Convenience stores are almost never authorized SNAP retailers. You need to use your EBT card at a grocery store, supermarket, or authorized farmers market. Use your state's store locator tool to find authorized retailers near you.

What if a store says it accepts EBT but will not take my card?

The store may have lost its authorization, the payment system may be down, or the cashier may not know how to process EBT. Ask to speak to a manager. If the store is supposed to accept EBT and refuses without a technical reason, you can report it to your state's SNAP program.

Can I buy gas with my EBT card?

No. EBT covers only food. Gasoline, car maintenance, and other non-food items are never covered, even at stores that accept EBT for groceries.

Do all Walmart and Target locations take EBT?

Most do, but not all. Use your state's SNAP store locator to confirm that the specific location near you is authorized. Some very small or specialty Walmart locations may not accept EBT.

Why can I buy packaged cookies at a grocery store with EBT but not a hot sandwich at Racetrac?

SNAP distinguishes between unprepared food and prepared food. Packaged cookies are shelf-stable and meant for home consumption. Hot sandwiches are prepared on-site and ready to eat immediately, which makes them ineligible regardless of where they are sold.