Apr 24, 2025
Understanding what can and cannot be bought with SNAP, previously known as Food Stamps, helps recipients use their benefits wisely. Many wonder if cough drops are an eligible purchase.
Can I Buy Cough Drops with Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy cough drops with Food Stamps or SNAP.
Cough drops are considered an over-the-counter medication, which is not covered under SNAP benefits. SNAP is designed to assist with purchasing food items and beverages, but it does not extend to non-food items, including medicines and supplements. This restriction ensures that the benefits are used primarily for nutritional needs.
How to Check If Cough Drops is SNAP-Eligible
To check if cough drops are 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 I Buy with SNAP?
While cough drops 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 I Not Buy with SNAP?
While SNAP benefits cover a wide range of essential food items, there are products like cough drops 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 I Try to Buy an Ineligible Item with EBT?
If you try to buy an ineligible item with SNAP at checkout, the system will automatically reject that part of your purchase. You will need to pay for the ineligible items with another form of payment, such as cash or a credit card. The cashier will inform you of the issue, and you can decide how 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.
Additionally, Benny lets you earn 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 there any exceptions to the rule that cough drops are not eligible for purchase with SNAP?
No, there are no exceptions. Cough drops are classified as over-the-counter medications and are universally ineligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy cough drops with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted. The system will simply reject the purchase of ineligible items, and you will need to use another form of payment.
3. Can I buy a basket containing cough drops with SNAP?
No, if a basket contains cough drops, the cost of the cough drops will need to be paid separately with another form of payment. Only the eligible items in the basket can be purchased with SNAP benefits.
4. How can I ensure that I am not accidentally trying to buy ineligible items like cough drops with SNAP?
Check 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.
