Shopping with SNAP
May 4, 2025
Understanding what you can and cannot buy with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), previously known as food stamps, helps recipients spend their benefits wisely. Many wonder if bloom is an eligible purchase.
Can You Buy Bloom with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy bloom with Food Stamps or EBT.
Bloom is not considered a food item or essential grocery under SNAP guidelines. The program is designed to assist with purchasing nutritious food, and non-food items like bloom do not qualify. This ensures that benefits are used to support a healthy diet for recipients.
How to Check If Bloom Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if bloom 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 bloom 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.
Snack Foods: Chips, ice cream, candy, and other snacks.
What Can You Not Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?
While SNAP benefits cover a wide range of essential food items, there are products like bloom 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.
Vitamins and Supplements: Products labeled with "Supplement Facts" are not covered.
Hot Prepared Foods: Meals that are hot at the point of sale, such as those from deli counters.
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 item. The cashier or the self-checkout system will notify you that the item isn't covered by SNAP benefits. You'll need to pay for it using another form of payment, such as cash or a credit card, to complete 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 checking receipts.
With Benny, you can also earn cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, 7-Eleven, and many more. This helps you stretch your benefits further and make the most out of your shopping.
Learn more about how Benny can help you manage your SNAP benefits effectively by visiting Benny today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is bloom not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
Bloom is not considered a food item or essential grocery under SNAP guidelines. The program focuses on providing nutritious food, and non-food items like bloom do not qualify.
2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy bloom with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you attempt to buy bloom. The transaction will simply be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment.
3. Are baskets containing bloom eligible for purchase with SNAP?
No, baskets containing bloom are not eligible for purchase with SNAP. Since bloom itself is not a qualifying item, any basket including it would also be ineligible.
4. How can I confirm if an item similar to bloom is SNAP-eligible?
To confirm if an item similar to bloom is SNAP-eligible, look 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 assistance.
