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 dog treats are an eligible purchase.
Can I Buy Dog Treats with Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy dog treats with Food Stamps or SNAP.
SNAP benefits are strictly for purchasing food items meant for human consumption. Since dog treats are considered pet food, they fall outside the program's guidelines. The primary goal of SNAP is to ensure that recipients have access to nutritious food for themselves and their families, not for their pets.
How to Check If Dog Treats is SNAP-Eligible
To check if dog treats 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.
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 dog treats 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 dog treats 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 toiletries 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 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 self-checkout system will notify you that the item cannot be purchased with your EBT card. You will need to use another form of payment for that item or remove it from your purchase. This ensures SNAP benefits are used only for approved items.
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, 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 dog treats ever eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
No, dog treats are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. SNAP is designed to cover food items meant for human consumption only.
2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy dog treats with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you try to buy dog treats. However, the transaction will be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment for the dog treats.
3. Can I buy a basket containing dog treats with SNAP benefits?
No, if a basket contains dog treats, it is not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. You would need to remove the dog treats from the basket to use your SNAP benefits for the remaining items.
4. How can I ensure I am not accidentally trying to buy dog treats 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.
