Apr 24, 2025
Understanding what can and cannot be bought with SNAP, previously known as Food Stamps, helps recipients spend their benefits wisely. Many recipients may wonder whether chips qualify as an approved purchase.
Can I Buy Chips with Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy chips with Food Stamps or SNAP.
Chips are considered a snack food, which falls under the category of eligible food items that can be purchased with SNAP benefits. The program allows for the purchase of most food products intended for home consumption, and chips fit within these guidelines.
How to Check If Chips is SNAP-Eligible
To check if chips are SNAP-eligible, look for “EBT/SNAP eligible” shelf tags in stores 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 I Buy with SNAP?
Besides chips, 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 I Not Buy with SNAP?
While SNAP benefits cover a wide range of essential food items, there are products 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 Foods: Foods that are hot at the point of sale, such as deli meals, are ineligible.
What Happens If I Try to Buy an Ineligible Item with EBT?
If you try to buy an ineligible item with SNAP, 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 your EBT card. You will need to use another form of payment to complete the purchase for that item or remove it from your cart.
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, helping you stay on top of your benefits.
Additionally, Benny lets you earn cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. Learn more about Benny and start managing your SNAP benefits more effectively today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are all types of chips eligible for purchase with SNAP?
Yes, most types of chips, including potato chips, tortilla chips, and other snack chips, are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits as they are considered snack foods intended for home consumption.
2. Can I buy chips in bulk with my SNAP benefits?
Yes, you can buy chips in bulk with your SNAP benefits as long as the store accepts EBT and the chips are intended for home consumption.
3. Are there any restrictions on the brands of chips I can buy with SNAP?
No, there are no restrictions on the brands of chips you can buy with SNAP. You can choose any brand available at a retailer that accepts EBT.
4. Can I use SNAP benefits to buy chips at convenience stores?
Yes, you can use SNAP benefits to buy chips at convenience stores, provided the store is authorized to accept EBT payments.
