Capture the SNAP Market with Fast, Compliant EBT Solutions

Secure, USDA-compliant EBT solutions that simplify setup, reduce

Accept SNAP EBT Payments Quickly and Confidently

Accept SNAP EBT Payments Quickly and Confidently

Launch EBT payments with Host Merchant Services to capture more sales and streamline the checkout process. Get a free EBT-ready terminal, next-day funding, transparent interchange-plus pricing, and 24×7 expert support, all from a processor you can reach when it matters the most.

Go Live in 3 Simple Steps

With our industry experts at your disposal, the EBT application process is a breeze:

Get Authorized with USDA FNS: Apply to become an authorized SNAP retailer and obtain your FNS number. (We’ll point you to the right forms and stocking rules.)
Call Us with Your FNS Number: We add it to your HMS account and activate EBT in approximately 2 to 3 business days.
Plug In and Take Payments: Your PIN-ready terminal arrives pre-programmed, just plug it in. If you already process PIN debit with a Host Merchant Services’ terminal, you’re set. Otherwise, we’ll activate it.

EBT Hardware

EBT Hardware

After getting signed up as a SNAP retailer with the government, you are ready to accept EBT payments. So, what exactally do you need? EBT works the same as PIN debit so if you are able to accept PIN debit, you have the hardware you need. PIN debit requires the ability for the customer to enter their PIN to complete a transaction. The use of a PIN programmed terminal or external PIN pad is needed. If you don’t accept pin debit currently, you will need to call your current processor to activate PIN debit on your merchant account. If you have recieved your terminal from Host Merchant Services, you are already PIN debit activated. All terminals from us are preset to accept PIN. To activate EBT payments, simply call us and supply your FNS number. We will add it to your account and give you the ability to accept EBT within 2-3 business days.

If you have an existing terminal from another source it will not work with Host Merchant Services. Terminals need a special programming for each processor. In that case, we will send you out a free terminal preprogrammed for Host Merchant Services. Our terminals are completely free with no lease or contracts.

We Support Every Business – From C-Stores to Farm Stands

You’ll need to meet USDA FNS stocking criteria and complete the application to receive an FNS number. We’ll guide you through each step. We work with every business:

Convenience Stores & Small Grocers
Butcher Shops & Specialty Markets
Farmers’ Markets & Farm Stands
Neighborhood Markets & Bodegas
Produce Stands & Fruit Markets
Seafood and Meat Markets
Corner Stores & Mini-Marts
Health Food & Organic Stores
Co-Ops and Local Food Markets
Rural General Stores
Independent Supermarkets
And More…

Expand What Your Business Can Accept

Expand What Your Business Can Accept

SNAP EBT Transactions

With Host Merchant Services, you can accept SNAP EBT for eligible food purchases directly at your terminal. SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits are loaded monthly to a recipient’s EBT card and processed like a PIN debit transaction.

Host Merchant Services ensures fast, reliable processing with next-day funding and no hidden fees, helping you serve low-income shoppers with ease.

EBT Cash Benefits

In states where EBT cash benefits (like TANF or general assistance) are offered, HMS terminals support both food and cash benefit transactions using the same card and PIN. Customers can use EBT cash to purchase non-food items or withdraw funds.

Your setup will automatically differentiate between SNAP and cash purchases based on card balance and item eligibility.

Combined EBT + Debit/Credit Support

All Host Merchant Services’ EBT-ready terminals are fully capable of handling traditional debit, credit, and gift card transactions, alongside EBT. This all-in-one setup reduces clutter, speeds up checkout, and improves the customer experience.

You’ll only need one terminal to accept all major payment types, with simple, transparent pricing and 24/7 support backing every transaction.

Hardware That Fits Your Checkout

Countertop EBT Terminals

Host Merchant Services provides Dejavoo and Pax countertop terminals that are fully EBT-capable, PIN-debit ready, and pre-programmed for SNAP and cash benefits. Fast setup, durable hardware, and next-day funding keep your checkout running smoothly.

Wireless & Mobile Options

Take payments anywhere with SwipeSimple mobile readers or Pax A-series wireless terminals. Ideal for markets, food stands, and compact spaces where mobility and reliable EBT processing matter most.

Integrated POS Solutions

Use Clover POS for a modern, all-in-one system that handles EBT, credit, debit, and contactless payments together. Streamline reporting, simplify compliance, and manage every transaction through one intuitive dashboard.

Stand-Beside Setup Compatibility

Already have a POS? Host Merchant Services terminals easily connect as stand-beside devices, allowing you to keep your existing system while adding secure EBT acceptance with no disruption to your workflow.

Hardware That Fits Your Checkout

More Features, Better Efficiency With Host Merchant Services

More Features, Better Efficiency With Host Merchant Services

Unlimited EBT/SNAP Processing

Process unlimited SNAP (EBT) transactions with no per-transaction cap. HMS provides free EBT-capable terminals (PIN debit ready) after signup.

Free EBT Terminal (No Lease, No Long-Term Contracts)

We’ll ship a stand-alone terminal programmed for your account so you can start quickly.

OTC & Healthy Food Benefit Support

Handle eligible out-of-pocket (OTC) items and programs linked to nutrition subsidies (if your region supports this).

Next-Day Funding

Batch today, get deposits the next business day.

Interchange-Plus, No Junk Fees

Clear, competitive pricing with $0 PCI and $0 PIN debit fees on our standard schedule.

24×7 U.S. Support

Real humans, real help, whenever you need it.

Start Accepting EBT the Right Way With Host Merchant Services!

Get a tailored quote and your free EBT-ready terminal. Feel free to fill out our contact form or call 877-517-HOST (4678) to talk with a specialist now.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does activation take?

Once you provide your FNS number, we typically activate EBT within 2 to 3 business days.

What is the process of activation of EBT payment processing like?

Host Merchant Services simplifies the process so that adoption for businesses is a breeze:

Onboarding help from a dedicated specialist.
Free terminal shipped fast after approval.
Hands-on training for your staff on EBT best practices.
24×7 support and clear reporting from day one.

If I don’t accept PIN debit now, can I still add EBT?

Yes. If your terminal is from Host Merchant Services, it’s already PIN-debit capable; if not, we’ll send a free, pre-programmed terminal.

Can I take EBT online?

Online EBT is limited and approved on a case-by-case basis under USDA programs; many national retailers support it, but availability varies. Talk to us about your use case.

What are some EBT processing rules?

Here is the checklist for businesses to understand common rules when processing EBT payments:

Sell only SNAP-eligible foods for SNAP transactions.
No cash refunds on SNAP purchases.
Don’t charge sales tax on SNAP-eligible items paid with EBT.
Card + PIN required at time of purchase; no delayed/credit EBT transactions.

What if I need more than EBT?

We can bundle credit/debit and other payment types on the same account with interchange-plus pricing and next-day funding.