College students are eligible for numerous benefits while they attend college. These include discounts on everyday items and Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT), and are valid until a student graduates.
Students can take advantage of discounts for streaming services, technology, fashion, food and travel. Some examples of companies that offer student discounts are Best Buy, Apple, Adobe Creative Cloud, Samsung, Squarespace, Nike, Target, Stanley, United Airlines, DoorDash and Zipcar.
Streaming services discounts include Hulu, Spotify, Amazon Prime, Paramount+, Peacock Premium and Youtube Premium.
To apply for discounts, students must use their “.edu” email address or student ID to have these benefits applied to them.
Aside from discounts, students can also check if they are eligible for EBT, which is an electronic system for distributing Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) cash benefits in a debit-style card like the Lone Star Card in Texas. These funds are used specifically for eligible food items.
Students can apply through the state Health and Human Services offices online, via mail or in-person. Students enrolled at least half-time can qualify for EBT if they meet income guidance and have an exemption, such as working more than 20 hours a week, having federal work-study or caring for a young child.
Students can visit YourTexasBenefits.com, or use the Your Texas Benefits mobile app to check balance, renew and report changes. For general assistance and status check call 2-1-1 or 1-877-541-7905.
For direct card issues, like a lost/stolen card, call the Lone Star Help Desk at 1-800-777-7328. To mail application/documents send this information to HHSC, P.O Box 149024, Austin, TX 78714-9024. For an in-person office locator use the “Find an Office” feature on the website.
When applying, students must be prepared to provide proof of identity, income, bank statements and household expenses. In order to determine eligibility, an application and interview must take place.
