Shopping with SNAP
Apr 24, 2025
Understanding what can and cannot be bought with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps recipients spend their benefits wisely. Many recipients may wonder whether dog treats qualify as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Dog Treats with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy dog treats with Food Stamps or EBT.
This is because SNAP benefits are intended to assist with the purchase of food for human consumption. Items like dog treats are considered non-food items and therefore do not qualify under the program's guidelines. The primary goal of SNAP is to ensure that recipients have access to nutritious food for themselves and their families.
How to Check If Dog Treats Is SNAP-Eligible
To determine if an item is SNAP-eligible, check its label. If it has a "Nutrition Facts" label, it is likely eligible. Conversely, items with a "Supplement Facts" label are not eligible. Additionally, if the item is hot, prepared, and meant for immediate consumption, it is likely not SNAP-eligible. For example:
Packaged salad: It has a "Nutrition Facts" label and is intended for home consumption. Therefore, it is SNAP-eligible.
Hot soup from the deli: It’s hot, prepared, and meant for immediate consumption. Therefore, it is not SNAP-eligible.
If in doubt, compare the product to USDA rules to determine SNAP eligibility.
Additionally, large chain stores often use small shelf labels or icons that say "SNAP Eligible" or "EBT Accepted." Websites of large chains like Walmart, Amazon, or delivery platforms like Instacart often let you filter by SNAP-eligible items. If still unsure, ask the shop assistant before making a purchase.
What Else Can You Not Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?
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 other alcoholic drinks are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
Vitamins and Supplements: Items with a "Supplement Facts" label, such as vitamins and dietary supplements, are not covered.
Hot Foods: Foods that are hot at the point of sale or meant for immediate consumption, like deli hot soups, are not eligible.
Non-Food Items: Household supplies, pet foods, and hygiene products fall outside the scope of SNAP benefits.
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 at checkout. 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 for the ineligible item or remove it from your purchase. This ensures that 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 in real-time, helping you stay on top of your spending. Plus, earn cash back on groceries and other purchases at popular stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. Download Benny to start saving on your EBT benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any exceptions to the rule that dog treats are not eligible for purchase with SNAP?
No, there are no exceptions. Dog treats are classified as non-food items and are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits under any circumstances.
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 attempt to buy dog treats. However, the transaction will be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment or remove the dog treats from your purchase.
Can I purchase a basket containing dog treats with SNAP benefits?
No, if a basket contains dog treats, the entire basket cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits. You would need to remove the dog treats and pay for them separately using another form of payment.
Why are dog treats not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
Dog treats are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits because they are considered non-food items. SNAP benefits are intended to assist with the purchase of food for human consumption only.
