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 chips qualify as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Chips with EBT/ Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy chips with EBT or Food Stamps.
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 items intended for home consumption, making chips a permissible choice for recipients.
How to Check If Chips Is SNAP-Eligible
To determine if an item is SNAP-eligible, check its label. If the item has a "Nutrition Facts" label, it is likely eligible. Conversely, if it has a "Supplement Facts" label, it is not eligible. Additionally, hot, prepared foods meant for immediate consumption are generally not eligible. For example:
Bag of chips: It has a "Nutrition Facts" label and is intended 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 product to USDA rules to determine SNAP 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 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.
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 eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. You can either remove the item from your purchase or pay for it using another form of payment, such as cash or a debit card.
Manage Your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
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
Are all types of chips eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
Yes, all types of chips, including potato chips, tortilla chips, and other varieties, are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. As long as the chips have a "Nutrition Facts" label and are intended for home consumption, they qualify under SNAP guidelines.
Can I buy chips in bulk with my EBT card?
Yes, you can buy chips in bulk with your EBT card. Whether you purchase a single bag or a large multipack, as long as the chips are for home consumption and have a "Nutrition Facts" label, they are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
Are there any restrictions on the brands of chips I can buy with SNAP benefits?
No, there are no restrictions on the brands of chips you can buy with SNAP benefits. You are free to choose any brand, from store brands to premium brands, as long as the chips meet the eligibility criteria of having a "Nutrition Facts" label and being intended for home consumption.
Can I use my EBT card to buy chips from online retailers?
Yes, you can use your EBT card to buy chips from online retailers that accept SNAP benefits. Websites like Amazon and Walmart allow you to filter for SNAP-eligible items, making it easy to find and purchase chips online using your EBT card.
