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 emergency food qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Emergency Food with EBT/ Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy emergency food with Food Stamps or SNAP.
Emergency food is eligible under SNAP because it falls under the category of food items intended for human consumption. This includes non-perishable items like canned goods, dried foods, and other shelf-stable products that can be used in emergencies. The program aims to ensure that recipients have access to essential nutrition, especially during times of crisis.
How to Check If Emergency Food Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if emergency food 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 while shopping.
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?
Besides emergency food, 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 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: Foods that are hot at the point of sale, such as deli meals, are not covered.
Vitamins and Supplements: Products labeled with "Supplement Facts" 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 funds 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, eliminating the need for phone calls or receipts.
Additionally, Benny helps 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 benefits more effectively today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are there any specific types of emergency food that are not eligible for purchase with SNAP?
Most emergency foods, such as canned goods and dried foods, are eligible for purchase with SNAP. However, items like hot foods or prepared meals that are hot at the point of sale are not covered.
2. Do SNAP eligibility rules for emergency food vary by state?
No, SNAP eligibility rules for emergency food are federally regulated and do not vary by state. All states follow the same guidelines set by the USDA.
3. Can I use SNAP benefits to buy emergency food kits?
Yes, you can use SNAP benefits to buy emergency food kits as long as the items within the kit are eligible food items. Always check the packaging for "EBT/SNAP eligible" labels to be sure.
4. Are there any restrictions on the quantity of emergency food I can buy with SNAP?
There are no specific restrictions on the quantity of emergency food you can buy with SNAP. You can purchase as much as your benefits allow, provided the items are eligible.
