In North Carolina, using SNAP benefits at farmers markets is easier than ever, and comes with exciting bonus incentives that help you stretch your food budget, support local farmers and enjoy fresh, seasonal produce.
How SNAP Works at Farmers’ Markets
- Check for EBT-accepting markets
Many markets across the state accept EBT/SNAP. In counties like Orange and Durham, markets such as Carrboro, Chapel Hill and Eno River participate. You can locate nearby markets via USDA’s SNAP Retailer Locator. - Visit the market welcome tent
At the entrance, the market manager will swipe your EBT card for the amount you’d like to spend. You’ll receive market scrip (tokens or paper vouchers) in equivalent value, usually in $1 or $5. - Spend your market scrip
Use the scrip like cash at vendor stalls selling approved items:
– Fresh fruits and vegetables
– Dairy, meat, poultry and fish
– Honey, jams, baked goods and even food-producing plants
Ineligible items include hot prepared foods or cut flowers.
Stretch Your SNAP Benefits: Incentive Programs
N.C. markets often participate in incentive programs that match your SNAP spending, sometimes dollar-for-dollar:
- Double Bucks / Dollar-Matching (DUNC): North Carolina’s DUNC program provides a 1:1 match for SNAP/EBT purchases at participating farmers markets, food hubs and direct agricultural outlets.
- Double Bucks in Orange/Durham County: Markets like Carrboro, Chapel Hill and Eno River offer Double Bucks, matching up to $50 per visit.
- WIC & Senior Market Nutrition Programs (FMNP & SFMNP):
- WIC FMNP vouchers are available from May through Sept. to WIC participants for purchasing fresh produce at certified markets.
- Senior FMNP (SFMNP) runs in N.C. from July 1 through Sept. 30, offering seniors vouchers for fruits, vegetables, honey and fresh-cut herbs.
Why Shop at Farmers Markets with SNAP?
- Great value: Compared to grocery stores, market prices are often competitive, or even better, when buying directly from farmers.
- Super fresh & seasonal: Market produce tends to be flavorful and harvested at peak ripeness.
- Boosts local economy: SNAP shoppers directly support NC farmers and local businesses.
- Nutrition Education & Support: Programs like NC State’s ‘More In My Basket At the Market’ help SNAP recipients learn to shop confidently and cook seasonally.
Budget-Smart Tips
- Plan how much SNAP to spend before arriving, matching is typically per visit.
- Shop in-season and in bulk; preserve extras by freezing, canning or pickling.
- Attend farmers markets regularly, they often rotate vendors with fresh weekly offerings.
Farmers markets in N.C. offer SNAP recipients not only affordable access to nutritious produce but also educational support and financial incentives, helping families spend smarter, eat healthier and keep dollars within local communities. Whether you’re a SNAP recipient, senior or WIC participant, take advantage of the matching programs and seasonal nutrition vouchers that make fresh food more accessible than ever.
You can find more information about utilizing SNAP benefits at your local farmers markets by visiting USDA’s SNAP-Ed Connection.