If you’re into crafts, Michaels is probably one of your go-to stores. They’ve got everything from paint and yarn to picture frames and fake flowers. But if you’re using food stamps, also known as EBT, you might be wondering if you can actually use them there. This essay will answer the question: Does Michaels accept EBT? And we’ll explore some other important stuff you should know if you’re planning a crafting spree.
What EBT Covers at Michaels
So, the big question: Does Michaels accept EBT? No, Michaels does not accept EBT cards for payment. EBT cards are primarily for buying food. Even though Michaels sells things that you could *potentially* use for food (like cake decorating supplies or ingredients for your own craft projects), they aren’t actually considered groceries.
Understanding EBT Restrictions
EBT cards are meant to help people afford food. The government sets specific rules about what you can and can’t buy with them. Generally, you can use your EBT to purchase items like:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Meats and poultry
- Dairy products
- Breads and cereals
These are considered “eligible food items.” Non-food items, like craft supplies, usually aren’t covered. Also, be aware that the items that are considered “eligible food items” may be different depending on your state. For example, in some states, you can use EBT to purchase seeds or plants to grow your own food.
Because of these restrictions, Michaels, which focuses on craft and art supplies, isn’t set up to accept EBT. It’s just not the type of store the EBT program is designed for.
Think of it this way: EBT is like a special gift card for groceries. You can’t use a grocery store gift card to buy paint at Michaels. Similarly, you can’t use your EBT card for art supplies.
Alternatives for Purchasing Craft Supplies
Even though you can’t use EBT at Michaels, you still have options if you want to get your craft on. The most obvious is to use cash or a debit/credit card. You can also consider:
- Saving up some money specifically for craft supplies.
- Asking for craft supplies as gifts.
Another option is to look for discounts. Michaels often has sales and coupons, and sometimes you can find great deals. Check their website or app for the latest offers. Some teachers and military personnel qualify for extra discounts, too. You may have to sign up for their rewards program to take advantage of them, though.
If you’re on a tight budget, consider repurposing materials. Upcycling is a great way to get creative and save money! Think about using old containers, fabric scraps, or things you already have around the house to create new projects. This can also be a fun challenge to get your creative juices flowing.
You could also ask friends and family if they have any craft supplies they aren’t using. Sometimes, people are happy to share their extras, and this can be a great way to get started with a new hobby.
Budgeting for Crafting
Crafting can be a fun and rewarding hobby, but it’s easy to overspend. Before you start buying supplies, it’s smart to create a budget. This will help you stay in control of your spending.
- Figure out how much money you can realistically spend on crafting each month.
- Make a list of the supplies you need and estimate how much each item will cost.
- Compare prices at different stores (online and in person) to find the best deals.
Don’t forget to factor in things like shipping costs if you’re buying online. Sometimes, a small shipping fee can eat up your budget pretty quickly. Always check the terms and conditions before you check out.
A simple way to track your spending is by keeping a spreadsheet or using a budgeting app. That way you can visually see how much you are spending and know where your money is going. Also, make sure you check the prices, as they fluctuate! Don’t be afraid to wait for a sale.
Another option is to set a limit for each project. Decide how much you want to spend before you begin and stick to it. You can make some pretty amazing crafts within budget! Just take the time to plan ahead.
Finding Deals and Discounts
Finding deals can make crafting more affordable. Here’s how to maximize your savings:
| Strategy | Description |
|---|---|
| Coupons | Look online, in the app, or in store for coupons. |
| Sales | Take advantage of seasonal sales and clearance events. |
| Rewards Programs | Sign up for rewards programs to earn points and get exclusive discounts. |
Michaels often has weekly sales, so check their flyers. You can also sign up for their email list to get coupons and special offers sent directly to your inbox. Be sure to check the fine print on the coupons, though. Some may be for certain types of projects.
Another great trick is to check for clearance items. Michaels has clearance sections where you can often find supplies at drastically reduced prices. It might take some digging, but you could find some real treasures. You can also check online retailers and compare prices.
Consider buying in bulk. If you know you will be using a lot of a certain supply, purchasing a larger quantity can often save you money in the long run. Just be sure you’ll actually use the product before you buy a ton of it!
Understanding Michaels’ Policies
Knowing Michaels’ policies can help you have a smooth shopping experience. Here’s some useful information:
- Returns: Make sure you have your receipt for any returns. The return policy varies, so make sure you are aware of their policy on the items you are purchasing.
- Price Matching: Michaels might price match competitors, so check their policy if you find a lower price somewhere else.
Knowing the return policy is important. You need the receipt to make a return or exchange, unless you are making a return without a receipt. You also have to be within a certain timeframe. If you are worried about whether or not you need a receipt, call and ask the store prior to making your purchase.
Michaels frequently has sales and deals, so comparing prices before you buy something can save you money. Sometimes, they will price match a competitor’s lower price, so that is something to keep in mind. However, be aware that some rules or conditions may apply, and the item has to be exactly the same.
Also, Michaels might offer classes and workshops. Sometimes, these can be a good way to learn new skills and get access to supplies. Checking their website or in-store signage can help you keep track of these events. These classes might have an additional cost associated with them, though.
Other Payment Options at Michaels
Since Michaels doesn’t take EBT, you’ll need to use other forms of payment. These options include:
- Cash
- Credit Cards (Visa, Mastercard, etc.)
- Debit Cards
- Michaels Gift Cards
If you’re planning to make a large purchase, it’s a good idea to check your credit limit on your credit card. Or, if you’re using a debit card, be sure you have enough money in your bank account to cover the purchase. You definitely don’t want to get stuck at the checkout counter!
Michaels gift cards can be another great option. You can either purchase them yourself or ask for them as a gift. Sometimes, family or friends might contribute to a gift card for your birthday or the holidays! You can also use digital gift cards or physical gift cards.
You can also use PayPal or other digital payment apps. You can typically only use these to purchase items online. Before shopping in person, though, it’s always a good idea to double-check with the store to confirm what forms of payment they currently accept.
Conclusion
So, does Michaels accept EBT? No, it does not. While it might seem disappointing if you’re using EBT, there are other ways to get the craft supplies you need. You can plan a budget, look for deals, or use cash, a debit or credit card, or a gift card. With a little planning and creativity, you can still enjoy your crafting hobbies even if you’re using EBT!