Apr 24, 2025
Understanding what can and cannot be bought with SNAP, previously known as Food Stamps, helps recipients use their benefits effectively. Many wonder if cooking oil is an eligible purchase.
Can I Buy Cooking Oil with Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy cooking oil with Food Stamps or SNAP.
Cooking oil is considered a staple food item, which makes it eligible for purchase under SNAP guidelines. The program allows for the purchase of essential food products that contribute to a balanced diet, and cooking oil falls into this category as it is commonly used in meal preparation.
How to Check If Cooking Oil is SNAP-Eligible
To check if cooking oil is SNAP-eligible, look for “EBT/SNAP eligible” shelf tags in stores 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 I Buy with SNAP?
Besides cooking oil, 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 I Not Buy with SNAP?
While SNAP benefits cover a wide range of essential food items, there are products 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.
Hot Foods: Foods that are hot at the point of sale, such as deli meals, are not covered.
Vitamins and Supplements: Products labeled with "Supplement Facts" are ineligible.
What Happens If I Try to Buy an Ineligible Item with EBT?
If you try to buy an ineligible item with SNAP, 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 your EBT card. You will need to use another form of payment or remove the item from your purchase. This ensures that SNAP benefits are used only for eligible food 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.
Additionally, Benny offers cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. Learn more about Benny and start managing your SNAP benefits more effectively today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are all types of cooking oil eligible for purchase with SNAP?
Yes, all types of cooking oil, including vegetable, olive, and canola oil, are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits as they are considered staple food items.
2. Can I buy cooking oil online with my SNAP benefits?
Yes, you can buy cooking oil online with your SNAP benefits if the retailer accepts EBT payments. Many major online grocery stores now accept SNAP for eligible food items.
3. Is there a limit on how much cooking oil I can buy with SNAP?
No, there is no specific limit on the quantity of cooking oil you can purchase with SNAP benefits. However, your total purchase must stay within your available SNAP balance.
4. Can I use SNAP benefits to buy cooking oil at farmers' markets?
Yes, you can use SNAP benefits to buy cooking oil at farmers' markets if the market participates in the SNAP program and the vendor sells eligible food items.
