Shopping with SNAP
May 4, 2025
Understanding what can and cannot be bought with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps recipients use their benefits effectively. Many wonder if Easter baskets are an eligible purchase under SNAP, previously known as food stamps.
Can You Buy Easter Baskets with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy Easter baskets with Food Stamps or EBT.
The reason is that SNAP benefits are intended for purchasing food items only. Easter baskets often contain non-food items like toys, decorations, and other gifts, which are not covered under SNAP guidelines. Even if the basket includes some food items, the presence of non-food items makes it ineligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
How to Check If Easter Baskets Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if Easter baskets 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 You Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?
While Easter baskets 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 You Not Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?
While SNAP benefits cover a wide range of essential food items, there are products like Easter baskets 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 are ineligible.
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 proceed. This ensures SNAP benefits are used only for eligible 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, eliminating the need for phone calls or receipts.
Additionally, Benny offers cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. Learn more about how Benny can help you manage your SNAP benefits more effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are there any exceptions where Easter baskets can be purchased with SNAP benefits?
No, Easter baskets cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits because they typically contain non-food items like toys and decorations, which are not covered under SNAP guidelines.
2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy an Easter basket with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted. However, the transaction for the Easter basket will be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment or remove the item from your purchase.
3. Can I buy a basket containing only food items for Easter with SNAP benefits?
Yes, if the basket contains only food items and no non-food items, it can be purchased with SNAP benefits. Ensure that the basket does not include any toys, decorations, or other non-food items.
4. Are there any states where the rule on Easter baskets' SNAP eligibility varies?
No, the rule on Easter baskets' SNAP eligibility does not vary by state. SNAP guidelines are federally regulated, and non-food items are universally ineligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
