Shopping with SNAP
May 4, 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 Benefiber qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Benefiber with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy Benefiber with Food Stamps or EBT.
Benefiber is considered a dietary supplement, which is not covered under SNAP guidelines. SNAP benefits are intended for purchasing food items that provide nutritional value, and supplements, vitamins, and medicines fall outside this category. Therefore, products like Benefiber are not eligible for purchase with EBT cards.
How to Check If Benefiber Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if Benefiber 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 Benefiber 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 You Not Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?
While SNAP benefits cover a wide range of essential food items, there are products like Benefiber 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 Foods: Foods that are hot at the point of sale, such as deli meals, are not covered.
Non-Food Items: Cosmetics, hygiene products, and other non-edible goods 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 for that specific item. 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.
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 receipts.
Additionally, Benny offers cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. Learn more about how Benny can help you manage your SNAP benefits effectively by visiting Benny today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is Benefiber not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
Benefiber is classified as a dietary supplement, which falls outside the scope of SNAP-eligible items. SNAP benefits are intended for food items that provide nutritional value, and supplements do not meet this criterion.
2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy Benefiber with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you attempt to buy Benefiber. The transaction for the ineligible item will simply be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment or remove the item from your purchase.
3. Are baskets containing Benefiber eligible for purchase with SNAP?
No, if your shopping basket contains Benefiber, the cost of Benefiber will not be covered by SNAP benefits. You will need to pay for Benefiber separately using another form of payment.
4. How can I confirm if a product like Benefiber is SNAP-eligible before purchasing?
Check for “EBT/SNAP eligible” shelf tags or icons on retailer websites. You can also compare the product to USDA rules or ask the cashier for confirmation.
