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. Many recipients may wonder whether candy qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Candy with EBT/ Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy candy with EBT or Food Stamps.
This is because candy is classified as a food item under the SNAP guidelines. The program allows the purchase of most edible items, including sweets and snacks, as long as they are intended for human consumption. Therefore, recipients can use their benefits to buy candy along with other eligible food items.
How to Check If Candy Is SNAP-Eligible
To determine if candy is SNAP-eligible, check its label. If it has a "Nutrition Facts" label, it is likely eligible. Conversely, if it has a "Supplement Facts" label, it is not. Additionally, hot, prepared foods meant for immediate consumption are generally ineligible. For example:
Chocolate bar: It has a "Nutrition Facts" label and is packaged for home consumption. Therefore, it is SNAP-eligible.
Hot pizza slice: It’s hot, prepared, and meant for immediate consumption. Therefore, it is not SNAP-eligible.
If in doubt, compare the item to USDA rules to determine 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.
Surprising Things You Can Buy with EBT
Besides candy, 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.
Special Dietary Foods: Gluten-free, diabetic-friendly, and allergen-free foods.
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 is not covered by SNAP benefits. You can either remove the item from your purchase or pay for it using another form of payment. This ensures that only eligible items are bought with SNAP benefits.
Manage Your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
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.
Download Benny to start saving on your EBT benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any restrictions on the types of candy you can buy with EBT?
Yes, there are some restrictions. Candy that is labeled with "Supplement Facts" instead of "Nutrition Facts" is not eligible for purchase with EBT. Additionally, hot, prepared candies meant for immediate consumption are also ineligible.
Can you buy candy gift baskets with EBT?
It depends on the contents of the gift basket. If the basket contains mostly eligible food items and the value of the ineligible items is minimal, it can be purchased with EBT. However, if the basket is primarily non-food items or contains hot, prepared foods, it will not be eligible.
Does the eligibility of candy for SNAP benefits vary by state?
No, the eligibility of candy for SNAP benefits does not vary by state. SNAP is a federal program, and its guidelines are consistent across all states. Therefore, candy that meets the federal criteria is eligible for purchase with EBT in any state.
Will your EBT benefits be halted if you try to buy ineligible candy?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you try to buy ineligible candy. The transaction for that specific item will simply be declined, and you will need to either remove the item or pay for it using another form of payment.
