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 cigarettes qualify as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Cigarettes with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy cigarettes with Food Stamps or EBT.
This is because the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is designed to help low-income individuals and families purchase nutritious food. Cigarettes are considered a non-food item and do not contribute to a healthy diet, which is why they are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
How to Check If Cigarettes 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:
Frozen pizza: It has a "Nutrition Facts" label and is intended for home consumption. Therefore, it is SNAP-eligible.
Hot deli sandwich: 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.
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 cigarettes that cannot be purchased with these benefits, including:
Alcoholic Beverages: Beer, wine, and other alcoholic drinks are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
Pet Foods: Food items intended for pets are not covered under SNAP benefits.
Household Supplies: Items such as cleaning products, paper goods, and other household essentials are not eligible.
Vitamins and Supplements: Products with a "Supplement Facts" label, including vitamins and dietary supplements, cannot be bought with 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 for the ineligible item or remove it from your purchase. This ensures that SNAP benefits are used only for approved 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
Are there any states where cigarettes are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
No, cigarettes are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits in any state. The federal guidelines for SNAP explicitly prohibit the purchase of tobacco products, including cigarettes, regardless of the state.
Can your EBT benefits be halted if you attempt to buy cigarettes with them?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you attempt to buy cigarettes. However, the transaction will be declined at the point of sale, and you will need to use another form of payment or remove the cigarettes from your purchase.
Are baskets containing cigarettes eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
No, if your shopping basket contains cigarettes, the cigarettes themselves will not be eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. You will need to separate the cigarettes from the rest of your items and pay for them using a different payment method.
Why are cigarettes not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
Cigarettes are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits because the program is designed to help low-income individuals and families buy nutritious food. Cigarettes are considered a non-food item and do not contribute to a healthy diet, which is why they are excluded from the list of approved purchases.
