MODULE 4
Using Food Stamps in Idaho
Updated April 2016
Using Food Stamps: Overview



Participants can use their
benefits on Quest cards;
they can manage their
Quest card accounts online
Food stamps are only used
for eligible food purchases
Quest cards are accepted
at a variety of locations in
the state
How to Apply


Idaho residents can apply for the Food Stamp
Program in person, or by mail or fax.
Those who are found to be eligible will receive their
benefits in a timely manner (often within a few
days)

Participants must partake in re-evaluation periodically
in order to continue receiving food stamps
Quest Card

Food Stamp benefits are deposited on Electronic Benefit
Transfer (EBT) cards, called Quest cards in Idaho

EBT cards are used like debit cards at most grocery stores
Benefits are deposited on the first of the month; an unused
balance from the previous month will roll over to the next
month

Accessing Accounts Online
Online
Services:
- Check Balance
-Review
Transaction
History
- Change Pin
Request a new
card by calling
the Quest card
customer
service line at 1888-432-4328
Replacement
cards are not
given out at
Health and
Welfare Offices
NEW!
Eligible and Ineligible Purchases
Eligible Purchases


Food
Plants and seeds to grow
food for the household
Ineligible Purchases
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Any non-food item, such as
pet foods and household
supplies
Alcohol and tobacco
Vitamins and medicines
Hot foods and foods to be
eaten in the store
Where to Use Food Stamps
Most grocery stores accept
food stamps.
The USDA website http://www.snapretailerlocator.com/ is a
helpful resource for finding a participating retailer near you!
Where to Use Food Stamps:
Farmers Markets

Some farmers markets
accept Food Stamps.
Usually the markets swipe
a shopper’s EBT card and
give tokens to be used at
market booths.
References

Idaho Administrative Procedures Act (IDAPA) 16.03.04 – Rules Governing the Food Stamp Program in Idaho, §
11(03)

Idaho Department of Agriculture, 2011 Idaho Farmers Markets,
http://www.agri.idaho.gov/Categories/Marketing/Documents/2011815FMB.pdf

Idaho Department of Health and Welfare Website, Using Your EBT Card,
http://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/ApplyforAssistance/Usingyourbenefits/UsingyourEBTcard/tabid/1564/Default
.aspx

Idaho DHW Website, Food Assistance for Idaho Families,
http://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/FoodCashAssistance/FoodStamps/tabid/90/Default.aspx

Idaho Farmers Market Guide (2013).
http://www.agri.idaho.gov/Categories/Marketing/Documents/2013FarmersMarketGuide.pdf
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JP Morgan Chase, Welcome to EBT Account, https://www.ebtaccount.jpmorgan.com/JPM

USDA Food and Nutrition Service, SNAP Retailer Locator, http://www.snapretailerlocator.com/

SNAPGardens.org, Grow Your Food Stamps!, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0dN2F1h0QsA