Shopping with SNAP
May 4, 2025
Understanding what can and cannot be bought with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, previously known as food stamps, helps recipients spend their benefits wisely. Many recipients may wonder whether cold medicine qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Cold Medicine with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy cold medicine with Food Stamps or EBT.
Cold medicine is classified as a non-food item, which makes it ineligible for purchase under SNAP guidelines. The program is designed to assist with the purchase of food and beverages, excluding items like medications, vitamins, and supplements. This restriction ensures that benefits are used primarily for nutritional needs.
How to Check If Cold Medicine Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if cold medicine is SNAP-eligible, look for “EBT/SNAP eligible” shelf tags 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 You Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?
While cold medicine 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 cold medicine 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.
Prepared Foods: Hot foods and foods meant for immediate consumption are not covered.
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. This ensures SNAP benefits are used only for eligible items.
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, and 7-Eleven. This means you can save more while shopping for essentials. Learn more about Benny and start managing your SNAP benefits more effectively today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are there any exceptions where cold medicine can be purchased with SNAP benefits?
No, there are no exceptions. Cold medicine is classified as a non-food item and is not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits under any circumstances.
2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy cold medicine with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted. However, the transaction for the cold medicine 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 of groceries that includes cold medicine with my SNAP benefits?
Yes, you can purchase the eligible items in your basket with SNAP benefits. However, the cold medicine will need to be paid for separately using another form of payment.
4. How can I ensure that I am not accidentally trying to buy ineligible items like cold medicine with my SNAP benefits?
Look for “EBT/SNAP eligible” shelf tags or icons on retailer websites. If still unsure, ask the cashier or call your state SNAP hotline before making a purchase.
