Important notice about paper food stamps coupons

Can I use paper food stamps if I have them?

Yes, but only for a short time longer. A new law means that food stamp coupons cannot be used to buy food after June 17, 2009. After that, the coupons will be worthless. Only your EBT card will be accepted.

If I use a paper coupon, can I get change?

You can get change of up to 99 cents. You cannot get change when you use your EBT card. You will not get more coupons as change. Here is an example:

Your food costs $1.56.
You pay with two $1 paper coupons.
You will get 44 cents change.

What happens if my change is more than 99 cents?

The store can ask you to buy more food so the total is closer to the amount of coupons you have. If you don’t want to, the store may refuse to sell the food. Here is an example:

• Your food costs $3. •
You pay with a $5 paper coupon. •
The store asks you to buy more food so that your cost is at least $4.01. •
You will get change back.

Are there other rules about using coupons?

Stores are not allowed to take $5 and $10 coupons that are not in the book when you buy your food. If you have purple $5 and green $10 coupons, you must show the store the book cover. The cover must have the same serial number as the coupons.

What should I do if I have a question?

Visit http://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/ or call your local office.