7 Common EBT Myths That Could Be Holding You Back

There’s a lot of misinformation about EBT and SNAP benefits, and sadly, it keeps too many people from applying for help they actually qualify for.

Today, we’re breaking down seven of the most common myths we hear from our readers and in online discussions so you can get the truth and the benefits you deserve.

Myth 1: You need a permanent address to apply for EBT

This is not true. You can qualify for SNAP even if you’re homeless or between addresses. You do need a mailing address, but it doesn’t have to be the place where you live. You may be able to use general delivery at the post office, a shelter address, or even the mailing address of a trusted friend or agency. As long as you can reliably get your mail, you’re eligible to apply.

Myth 2: You don’t qualify if you have a job

Millions of workers across the U.S. receive SNAP benefits. In 2022, more than 15 million workers were enrolled—that’s about 10% of the workforce. About 28% of all SNAP households have earned income, and that percentage jumps to more than half for households with children. SNAP even gives you a 20% earned income deduction, which means not all of your wages count against you. Even if you’re working part time or earning low wages, you could still qualify.

Myth 3: You have to pay or receive child support to get SNAP

This is a common fear, especially among single parents, but it’s not true in most places. Only nine states—Arkansas, Florida, Idaho, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Mississippi, Nebraska, and South Dakota—require cooperation with child support enforcement. Even in those states, there are exceptions for good cause, such as domestic violence. In most areas, you can receive SNAP without having to open or enforce a child support case.

Myth 4: You can’t own a home or car

Your home will never count against you when applying for SNAP. Vehicles are usually exempt as well, especially if you’re living in them, using them for work, transporting a disabled household member, or carrying necessary supplies like fuel or water. Cars worth less than $1,500 are also excluded. Some states handle vehicles differently, but the bottom line is that having a car or even a home will not automatically disqualify you.

Myth 5: You must have children to get SNAP

SNAP isn’t just for families with kids. Seniors, single adults, and people with disabilities can qualify too. The rules are different for able-bodied adults without dependents, who are limited to three months of SNAP in a three-year period unless they meet work requirements. Volunteering can count toward those requirements, so even childless adults may be able to continue receiving benefits if they meet the criteria.

Myth 6: Everyone in your household has to apply

SNAP rules are based on who lives together and who buys and prepares food together. For example, spouses and children under 22 must always be counted, but roommates who keep food separate don’t have to be included in your SNAP household. Seniors over 60 with permanent disabilities may even qualify as a separate household, even if they live with others. It’s not about who you live with—it’s about who you share meals with.

Myth 7: You have to pay SNAP back someday

SNAP is not a loan, so you don’t have to repay your benefits. The only time repayment comes into play is if there was an overpayment, which could happen because of an agency error, unreported changes, or fraud. Even then, you have rights: you can appeal the decision, request a repayment plan, or ask for a waiver if the mistake wasn’t your fault. For the vast majority of recipients, SNAP benefits never have to be paid back.

Relief Recap

Too many people miss out on SNAP because they believe these myths. The truth is, you don’t need a permanent address, you can qualify even if you’re working, and you don’t have to worry about paying benefits back. Whether you’re single, raising kids, or a senior living on a fixed income, SNAP could provide valuable support for your household.

If you’ve been unsure about applying, don’t let these misconceptions stop you. Check our SNAP and EBT Guide for more resources, income limits, and state-specific details that can help you move forward.