More retailers say yes to food stamps - USATODAY.com

More retailers say yes to food stamps - USATODAY.com: "More retailers are accepting food stamps, as a record number of consumers are turning to government aid to pay for groceries.

Nearly 39 million people received food stamps — now known as Electronic Benefit Transfers — in April 2009, up about 20% over April 2008. Retailers ranging from some Costco (COST) stores — yes, quarts of capers do qualify — to 7-Eleven to Target (TGT) are moving quickly to cater to cash-strapped customers.

To accept the debit-card-like EBT cards, stores must meet at least one of the following conditions:

•They regularly sell at least three varieties of foods in each of four categories — breads/cereals; dairy products; fruits and vegetables; and meat, fish or poultry — and at least two of the categories must include perishable foods.

•Or more than half of total gross sales must be in 'staple foods,' which means no candy, soft drinks or prepared foods."