Shopping with SNAP
May 4, 2025
Understanding what you can and cannot buy with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps recipients spend their benefits wisely. A common question is whether Walmart gift cards qualify as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy a Walmart Gift Card with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy a Walmart gift card with Food Stamps or EBT.
SNAP benefits are intended to help recipients purchase eligible food items directly. Gift cards, including those from Walmart, are not considered eligible because they can be used to buy non-food items, which falls outside the program's guidelines. This restriction ensures that SNAP benefits are used exclusively for their intended purpose: to provide nutritional assistance to those in need.
How to Check If a Walmart Gift Card Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if a Walmart gift card is SNAP-eligible, look for "EBT/SNAP eligible" shelf tags or icons on retailer websites. Most major grocers label qualifying foods, making it easier to identify eligible items.
Additionally, compare the product to USDA rules by visiting the official resource. If still unsure, ask the cashier or call your state SNAP hotline before making a purchase.
What Can You Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?
While Walmart gift cards aren't eligible, you might be surprised to know that SNAP benefits cover many of these items:
Plants: Vegetable seeds, fruit plants, and starters used to grow food at home.
Farmers’ Markets: Eligible at many markets, often via tokens or electronic payments.
Energy Drinks: Eligible if labeled with a "Nutrition Facts" panel (not "Supplement Facts").
Bakery Items and Birthday Cakes: Decorated birthday cakes and baked goods.
Seafood and Fresh Meat: Fresh, frozen, or canned seafood and meats.
What Can You Not Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?
While SNAP benefits cover a wide range of essential food items, there are products like Walmart gift card that cannot be purchased with these benefits, including:
Alcoholic Beverages: Beer, wine, and liquor are not eligible for purchase.
Household Supplies: Items like cleaning products, paper goods, and pet food are excluded.
Hot Prepared Foods: Meals that are hot at the point of sale, such as deli foods, are not covered.
Vitamins and Supplements: Products labeled with "Supplement Facts" are ineligible.
What Happens If You Try to Buy an Ineligible Item with an EBT Card?
If you try to buy an ineligible item with your EBT card, the transaction will be declined at checkout. The cashier or the self-checkout system will notify you that the item cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits. You will need to use another form of payment for that item or remove it from your purchase altogether.
Manage Your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Managing your SNAP benefits can be easier with Benny. Our app allows you to check your EBT balance and transactions instantly, eliminating the need for phone calls or checking receipts.
Additionally, Benny offers cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, 7-Eleven, and many more. Learn more about how Benny can help you manage your SNAP benefits more effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are Walmart gift cards eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
No, Walmart gift cards are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. SNAP benefits are intended for direct food purchases, and gift cards can be used for non-food items, which is outside the program's guidelines.
2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy a Walmart gift card with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you attempt to buy a Walmart gift card. However, the transaction will be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment or remove the gift card from your purchase.
3. Can I purchase a basket containing a Walmart gift card with SNAP benefits?
No, baskets containing a Walmart gift card are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. The gift card itself is ineligible, making the entire basket ineligible for purchase with SNAP.
4. Are there any exceptions where Walmart gift cards can be bought with SNAP benefits?
No, there are no exceptions. Walmart gift cards cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits under any circumstances, as they do not meet the program's criteria for eligible food items.
