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 charcoal qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Charcoal with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy charcoal with Food Stamps or EBT.
This is because SNAP benefits are intended to cover food items that are essential for preparing meals. Charcoal, while useful for cooking, is considered a non-food item and therefore does not qualify for purchase under the program. The guidelines are designed to ensure that recipients use their benefits for nutritious food rather than other household supplies.
How to Check If Charcoal Is SNAP-Eligible
To determine if an item is SNAP-eligible, check its label. If it has a "Nutrition Facts" label, it is likely eligible. Conversely, items with a "Supplement Facts" label are not eligible. Additionally, hot, prepared foods meant for immediate consumption are generally not SNAP-eligible. For example:
Frozen vegetables: They have a "Nutrition Facts" label and are intended for home consumption. Therefore, they are SNAP-eligible.
Hot pizza: 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.
Additionally, 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 charcoal that cannot be purchased with these benefits, including:
Alcoholic Beverages: Beer, wine, and other alcoholic drinks are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
Vitamins and Supplements: Items with a "Supplement Facts" label, such as vitamins and dietary supplements, are not covered.
Non-Food Items: Household supplies, pet foods, and personal care products are not eligible for purchase.
Hot Foods: Prepared foods meant for immediate consumption, like hot deli items, are not covered by SNAP benefits.
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 food items.
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Managing your SNAP benefits is easier with Benny. Our app lets you check your EBT balance and transactions in real-time, helping you stay on top of your spending. Plus, earn cash back on groceries and other purchases at popular stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. Download Benny to start saving on your EBT benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Charcoal Ever Eligible for Purchase with SNAP Benefits?
No, charcoal is not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. SNAP benefits are intended to cover food items necessary for meal preparation, and charcoal is classified as a non-food item.
Can You Purchase a Basket of Groceries with Charcoal Using SNAP?
If your basket contains both SNAP-eligible food items and ineligible items like charcoal, you will need to pay for the charcoal separately using another form of payment. The SNAP benefits will only cover the eligible food items in your basket.
Will Your EBT Benefits Be Halted If You Attempt to Buy Charcoal?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you attempt to buy charcoal. However, the transaction for the charcoal will be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment or remove the charcoal from your purchase.
Are There Any States Where Charcoal Is SNAP-Eligible?
No, the rule regarding charcoal's ineligibility for purchase with SNAP benefits is consistent across all states. Charcoal is considered a non-food item and does not qualify for purchase under the program.
