BenefitType Property

Indicates whether the EBT card is a Food Stamps card or Cash Benefits card.

Syntax

public int getBenefitType();
public void setBenefitType(int benefitType);


Enumerated values:
  public final static int btFoodStamps = 0;
  public final static int btCashBenefits = 1;

Remarks

Under the EBT system, food stamp clients apply for their benefits in the usual way, by filling out a form at their local food stamp office. Once eligibility and the level of benefits have been determined, an account is established in the client's name, and food stamp benefits are deposited electronically into the account each month. A plastic card similar to a Debit card is issued, and a personal identification number (PIN) is assigned or chosen by the client to provide access to the account.

When a food stamp client is ready to purchase groceries, the client's card is run through an electronic reader or a POS (point-of-sale) terminal, and the client enters the secret PIN to access the food stamp account. A transaction request is transmitted to the processor for the issuing state. The processor electronically verifies the PIN and account balance and sends either an authorization or a denial back to the retailer. The client's account is debited for the amount of the purchase, and the retailer's account is credited. No money or food stamps change hands.

The following are valid btFoodStamps (0) transactions:

• Sale
• Credit
• Voucher Clear (force) of previously voice-authorized Sale or Credit
• BalanceInquiry
• Any of the above transactions may be manually-keyed if track data cannot be read.

The following transactions are NOT ALLOWED for food stamp accounts:

• Sale with CashBack
• CashWithdrawal
• Non-food related items (including alcohol)

Various state and county agencies issue cash benefits for various needs; the most familiar is Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF). If the benefit is issued electronically, it can be spent like cash wherever EBT payments are accepted, it works much like a regular debit card.

The following are valid btCashBenefits (1) transactions:

• Sale
• Sale with CashBack
• BalanceInquiry
• CashWithdrawal (amount is not to be limited, client is permitted to access the remaining available balance)

The following transactions are NOT ALLOWED for cash accounts:

• Credit (refund to a cash account not permitted)
• Voice authorizations with a voucher clear
• Manually keyed transactions (Track2 is required)

Default Value

0