Apr 24, 2025
Understanding what can and cannot be bought with SNAP, previously known as Food Stamps, helps recipients use their benefits effectively. Many recipients may wonder whether alcohol is an eligible purchase.
Can I Buy Alcohol with Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy alcohol with Food Stamps or SNAP.
Alcohol is not eligible for purchase under SNAP because the program is designed to assist low-income households in purchasing nutritious food. The goal is to ensure that recipients have access to essential food items that contribute to a healthy diet. Alcoholic beverages do not meet these criteria and are therefore excluded from the list of approved items.
How to Check If Alcohol is SNAP-Eligible
To check if alcohol 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 I Buy with SNAP?
While alcohol isn'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 I Not Buy with SNAP?
While SNAP benefits cover a wide range of essential food items, there are products like alcohol that cannot be purchased with these benefits, including:
Household Supplies: Items such as cleaning products, paper goods, and pet food.
Vitamins and Supplements: Products labeled with "Supplement Facts" instead of "Nutrition Facts".
Hot Foods: Foods that are hot at the point of sale, like deli meals or restaurant items.
Non-Food Items: Cosmetics, hygiene products, and other non-edible goods.
What Happens If I Try to Buy an Ineligible Item with EBT?
If you try to buy an ineligible item with SNAP at checkout, the system will automatically reject that part of your purchase. You will need to pay for the ineligible items using another form of payment, such as cash or a credit card. The cashier can help you complete the transaction, ensuring you only use SNAP benefits for eligible items.
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, helping you stay on top of your benefits.
Additionally, Benny lets you earn cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. Learn more about Benny and start managing your SNAP benefits more effectively today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are there any exceptions to the rule that alcohol cannot be purchased with SNAP?
No, there are no exceptions. Alcohol is universally ineligible for purchase with SNAP benefits across all states.
2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy alcohol with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted. However, the system will reject the purchase, and you will need to use another form of payment for the alcohol.
3. Can I purchase a basket of groceries that includes alcohol with SNAP?
No, you cannot use SNAP benefits to purchase a basket that includes alcohol. You will need to separate the alcohol from the rest of your groceries and pay for it with another form of payment.
4. What should I do if I'm unsure whether a beverage is considered alcohol under SNAP rules?
If you're unsure, check the label for alcohol content or ask the cashier. You can also refer to the USDA's official guidelines for more information.
