Vendor-Level System for SNAP/EBT Acceptance Checklist Using a vendor-level system allows each individual vendor to accept SNAP/ EBT/P-EBT and credit/ debit payments, and MMM e-incentives where available, directly from customers.
A bank account. (Required) Individual vendors must have a bank account. Sales will be wirelessly transferred to the account within 48 business hours of the transactions. A completed application for USDA SNAP authorization. (Required) Each vendor must complete the USDA’s e-Authentication Account Registration and then apply to be a SNAP-authorized retailer. At the end of the application, the vendor will receive an identification number from the USDA Food Nutrition Services (FNS). Refer to page 12 of this guide for more information. Vendors cannot receive equipment to participate in the vendor-level market system without first completing this process. Budgeting for direct and indirect costs. Each vendor is responsible for transaction fees for any SNAP/EBT, credit/debit transactions that they process. Through Market Link, there are no per-transaction SNAP/EBT processing fees ever. Fees for credit/debit depend on which processor the farmer picks. Strong vendor buy-in and compliance. A farmers market manager and additional staff as needed. Each market needs dedicated vendors who wish to participate in the vendor- level system, comply with necessary procedures and responsibilities, and process transactions on every market day. Additional time is required for program outreach, as well as weekly accounting and data collection. Some markets hire a food access coordinator to manage these tasks, while others are able to integrate these tasks into the roles of market staff and committed volunteers. An existing or potential customer base of consumers using federal assistance benefits. Consider reaching out to your community partners, including local Departments of Social Services (the agency that issues SNAP/EBT benefits), senior centers, churches, food pantries, soup kitchens, recreation centers, community centers, schools, and aid organizations.
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