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 deer corn qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Deer Corn with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy deer corn with Food Stamps or EBT.
Deer corn is considered a non-food item under SNAP guidelines. The program is designed to assist with purchasing food for human consumption, and items intended for feeding wildlife do not qualify. Therefore, deer corn falls outside the scope of eligible purchases.
How to Check If Deer Corn Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if deer corn 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.
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 deer corn 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 deer corn 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, such as those from deli counters.
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 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, eliminating the need for phone calls or receipts.
Additionally, Benny offers cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, 7-Eleven, and many more. Learn more about how Benny can help you manage your SNAP benefits effectively by visiting Benny.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is deer corn not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
Deer corn is considered a non-food item under SNAP guidelines. The program is designed to assist with purchasing food for human consumption, and items intended for feeding wildlife do not qualify.
2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy deer corn with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you attempt to buy deer corn. The transaction will simply be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment or remove the item from your purchase.
3. Are baskets containing deer corn eligible for purchase with SNAP?
No, baskets containing deer corn are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. Since deer corn itself is ineligible, any product or basket containing it would also be excluded.
4. How can I ensure that I am not purchasing ineligible items like deer corn with my SNAP benefits?
To avoid purchasing ineligible items, look for "EBT/SNAP eligible" shelf tags or icons on retailer websites. You can also compare the product to USDA rules or ask the cashier for assistance.
