Can You Buy Condoms with EBT/Food Stamps? (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 condoms qualify as an approved purchase.

Can You Buy Condoms with EBT/ Food Stamps?

No, you cannot buy condoms with Food Stamps or EBT.

SNAP benefits are intended to help low-income individuals and families purchase food and beverages. Condoms, being classified as non-food items, do not fall under the eligible categories for SNAP purchases. The program strictly limits purchases to items that provide nutritional value, excluding personal care products like condoms.

How to Check If Condoms Is SNAP-Eligible

To check if condoms are SNAP-eligible, look for "EBT/SNAP eligible" shelf tags or icons on retailer websites. Most major grocers label qualifying items, making it easy to identify eligible products.

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 condoms aren'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 condoms 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 Prepared Foods: Meals that are hot at the point of sale 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 at checkout. The cashier or the point-of-sale 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 complete 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, and 7-Eleven. This can help you stretch your benefits further. Learn more about Benny and start managing your SNAP benefits more effectively today.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are there any states where condoms are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?

No, condoms are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits in any state. The program's guidelines are federally mandated and do not vary by state.

2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy condoms with SNAP?

No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you attempt to buy condoms. The transaction will simply be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment.

3. Can I purchase a basket of items that includes condoms with my SNAP benefits?

No, if your basket contains condoms, you will need to pay for those separately. Only the eligible food items in your basket can be purchased with SNAP benefits.

4. Are there any exceptions to the rule that condoms cannot be bought with SNAP benefits?

No, there are no exceptions. Condoms are classified as non-food items and are universally ineligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.