Using SNAP Benefits at the Market

It’s easy to use SNAP benefits at Illinois farmers markets. Just bring your LINK card to the Market and you’re all set!

The Market is continuing it’s participation in a universal SNAP system. This means any market tokens you may have from past seasons from either Urbana’s Market at the Square, or from the Champaign Farmer’s Market, can be spent at both markets. Continue reading to learn how the SNAP/LINK system works…

How the LINK token system works:

  • The patron brings their LINK card to the City tent, located at the northwest entrance to the Market.
  • The card is swiped for the desired amount at the City’s wireless terminal.
  • Upon approval, the patron receives the desired amount in Market Scratch – wooden tokens for LINK purchases. LINK tokens are worth $1.00 each.
  • Urbana’s Market at the Square will match the desired amount with Coupon Vouchers up to $20 per Saturday.
  • Triple LINK! You can TRIPLE the value of your LINK or P-EBT card for up to $20 (swiped). This means if you swipe for $20, you’ll receive $20 in tokens for all SNAP-eligible items and $40 in vouchers to use on fresh LOCAL fruits and vegetables at the Champaign Farmer’s Market and Urbana’s Market at the Square.​
  • Patron goes into the Market and spends their tokens and vouchers at vendor booths selling SNAP-eligible foods.
  • Match vouchers expire at the end of October. Tokens do not expire.

Does every vendor accept LINK and WIC/Senior farmers market nutrition program vouchers?

Only vendors selling SNAP-eligible foods will accept LINK Market Scratch. WIC/Senior farmers market nutrition program vouchers may only be redeemed at produce stands displaying the Illinois WIC banner (pictured above.)

Does it cost anything to use LINK?

There is no charge whatsoever for LINK transactions.

Do I get change back for my LINK tokens?

Change cannot be given for LINK tokens or vouchers, so the purchase is rounded up or down as appropriate by the vendor.

What happens if I don’t spend all my LINK tokens or vouchers? Can I use them the following week?

Market tokens and vouchers can be used week-to-week and season-to-season. WIC/Senior farmers market nutrition program vouchers have specific time frames in which they may be used. The dates are listed on each voucher. If you have any questions please ask one of our Market Staff members at the information tent located in the north row of the Market.

For more information about using LINK and WIC/Senior at the Market please watch the following video: