Shopping with SNAP
Apr 24, 2025
Understanding what can and cannot be bought with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps recipients spend their benefits wisely. A common question is whether beer qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Beer with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy beer with Food Stamps or EBT.
Beer is not eligible for purchase under SNAP because it is classified as an alcoholic beverage. SNAP benefits are intended to help recipients buy essential food items and non-alcoholic beverages. The program specifically excludes alcohol, tobacco, and other non-food items to ensure that the benefits are used to support nutritional needs.
How to Check If Beer Is SNAP-Eligible
To determine if an item is SNAP-eligible, check its label. Items with a "Nutrition Facts" label are generally eligible, while those with a "Supplement Facts" label are not. Additionally, hot, prepared foods meant for immediate consumption are typically ineligible. For example:
Frozen pizza: It has a "Nutrition Facts" label and is intended for home consumption. Therefore, it is SNAP-eligible.
Hot deli sandwich: It’s hot, prepared, and meant for immediate consumption. Therefore, it is not SNAP-eligible.
If in doubt, compare the product to USDA rules to determine SNAP eligibility.
Large chain stores often use small shelf labels or icons that say "SNAP Eligible" or "EBT Accepted." Websites of large chains like Walmart, Amazon, or delivery platforms like Instacart often let you filter by SNAP-eligible items. If still unsure, ask the shop assistant before making a purchase.
What Else Can You Not Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?
While SNAP benefits cover a wide range of essential food items, there are products like beer that cannot be purchased with these benefits, including:
Tobacco Products: Cigarettes, cigars, and other tobacco-related items are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
Vitamins and Supplements: Items with a "Supplement Facts" label, such as vitamins and dietary supplements, are excluded from SNAP eligibility.
Non-Food Items: Household supplies, pet foods, and personal care products cannot be bought with SNAP benefits.
Hot Prepared Foods: Meals and foods that are hot at the point of sale, like those from a deli counter, are not covered by SNAP.
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 or remove the item from your purchase. This ensures that SNAP benefits are used only for eligible items.
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Benny is a great option to manage your SNAP benefits effectively. With Benny, you can check your EBT balance and transactions in real-time, helping you stay on top of your EBT spending. Plus, you can earn cash back on groceries and other purchases at popular stores such as Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if you try to buy beer with an EBT card?
If you attempt to purchase beer with your EBT card, the transaction will be declined at the checkout. The system will notify you that the item is not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits, and you will need to use another form of payment or remove the beer from your cart.
Can your EBT benefits be halted if you try to buy beer?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you try to buy beer. However, repeatedly attempting to purchase ineligible items could lead to scrutiny of your account and potential penalties, such as temporary suspension of benefits.
Are baskets containing beer eligible for purchase with SNAP?
No, baskets containing beer are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. You will need to remove the beer from your basket and pay for it separately using another form of payment to complete the transaction with your EBT card.
Does the rule on beer's SNAP eligibility vary by state?
No, the rule on beer's SNAP eligibility does not vary by state. Beer is classified as an alcoholic beverage and is universally ineligible for purchase with SNAP benefits across all states.
