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 cornstarch qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Cornstarch with EBT/ Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy cornstarch with Food Stamps or SNAP.
Cornstarch is considered a staple food item, which makes it eligible for purchase under SNAP guidelines. The program allows for the purchase of most food products intended for home preparation and consumption, and cornstarch fits within this category. It is commonly used in cooking and baking, making it a qualifying item for SNAP benefits.
How to Check If Cornstarch Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if cornstarch is SNAP-eligible, look for “EBT/SNAP eligible” shelf tags or icons on retailer websites. Most major grocers label qualifying foods, making it easy to identify eligible items while shopping.
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?
Besides cornstarch, 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 that cannot be purchased with these benefits, including:
Alcohol and Tobacco: These items are strictly prohibited under SNAP guidelines.
Non-Food Items: Household supplies, pet foods, and hygiene products are not eligible.
Hot Prepared Foods: Foods that are hot at the point of sale, such as deli meals, are excluded.
Vitamins and Supplements: Items labeled with "Supplement Facts" 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 specific item. The cashier or the self-checkout system will notify you that the item is not covered by SNAP benefits. You will need to pay for the ineligible item using another form of payment, such as cash or a credit card.
Manage Your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Managing your SNAP benefits is easier with Benny. Our app allows you to check your EBT balance and transactions instantly, eliminating the need for phone calls or checking receipts.
With Benny, you can also earn cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, 7-Eleven, and many more. This makes managing your benefits more effective and rewarding.
Learn more about how Benny can help you by visiting Benny today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Where can I find cornstarch in the store to purchase with SNAP benefits?
Cornstarch is typically found in the baking aisle of most grocery stores. Look for it near other baking essentials like flour and sugar.
2. Are there any specific brands of cornstarch that are not eligible for purchase with SNAP?
No, all brands of cornstarch are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits as long as they are intended for home preparation and consumption.
3. Can I use my SNAP benefits to buy cornstarch online?
Yes, you can use your SNAP benefits to buy cornstarch online from retailers that accept EBT payments. Make sure to check if the online store participates in the SNAP Online Purchasing Pilot.
4. Is there a limit to how much cornstarch I can buy with my SNAP benefits?
There is no specific limit on the amount of cornstarch you can buy with your SNAP benefits. However, your total purchase must stay within your available SNAP balance.
