May 4, 2025
Understanding what can and cannot be bought with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, previously known as food stamps, helps recipients spend their benefits wisely. Many wonder if creatine is an eligible purchase.
Can You Buy Creatine with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy creatine with Food Stamps or EBT.
Creatine is considered a dietary supplement, and SNAP benefits are restricted to purchasing food items. The program does not cover supplements, vitamins, or any non-food products, which is why creatine is not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
How to Check If Creatine is SNAP-Eligible
To check if creatine 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.
Compare the product to USDA rules by visiting the official resource. If still unsure, ask the cashier or call your state SNAP hotline before purchasing.
What Can You Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?
While creatine 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 creatine 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: Prepared foods meant for immediate consumption, such as those from deli counters, are not covered.
Non-Food Items: Vitamins, medicines, and cosmetics fall outside the program's scope.
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 isn't covered by SNAP benefits. You'll need to pay for it using another form of payment, such as cash or a credit card, to complete your purchase.
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, 7-Eleven, and many more. 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. Why is creatine not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
Creatine is classified as a dietary supplement, and SNAP benefits are restricted to food items. Supplements, vitamins, and non-food products are not covered by the program.
2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy creatine with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted. The transaction for creatine will simply be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment to purchase it.
3. Are baskets containing creatine eligible for purchase with SNAP?
No, if your shopping basket contains creatine, the cost of the creatine will not be covered by SNAP benefits. You will need to pay for the creatine separately using another payment method.
4. How can I ensure I am not trying to buy ineligible items like creatine with SNAP benefits?
Look for “EBT/SNAP eligible” tags on shelves or online listings. If unsure, compare the product to USDA rules or ask a cashier before purchasing.
