Shopping with SNAP
May 4, 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 coals qualify as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Coals with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy coals with Food Stamps or EBT.
Coals are considered a non-food item, and SNAP benefits are strictly designated for purchasing food products. The program aims to assist low-income households in accessing nutritious food, and non-food items like coals do not fall under this category. Therefore, they are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
How to Check If Coals Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if coals are SNAP-eligible, look for "EBT/SNAP eligible" shelf tags or icons on retailer websites. Most major grocers label qualifying items, making it easier to identify what can be purchased with SNAP benefits.
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 You Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?
While coals isn't eligible, 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 You Not Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?
While SNAP benefits cover a wide range of essential food items, there are products like coals 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.
Prepared Foods: Hot foods and foods meant for immediate consumption are ineligible.
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 item. 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 to proceed with the transaction.
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 without hassle.
Additionally, Benny offers cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, 7-Eleven, and many more. This means you can stretch your benefits further while shopping at your favorite stores.
Learn more about how Benny can help you manage your SNAP benefits effectively by visiting Benny today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are there any states where coals are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
No, coals are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits in any state. SNAP benefits are strictly for food items, and coals are considered a non-food item.
2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy coals with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you try to buy coals. However, the transaction for the coals will be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment or remove the item from your purchase.
3. Can I purchase a basket containing coals with my SNAP benefits?
No, if a basket contains coals, the coals portion of the purchase will not be covered by SNAP benefits. You will need to pay for the coals separately using another form of payment.
4. Why are coals not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
Coals are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits because they are classified as a non-food item. SNAP benefits are intended to help low-income households buy nutritious food, and non-food items like coals do not meet this criterion.
