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 essential oils are an eligible purchase under SNAP, previously known as food stamps.
Can You Buy Essential Oils with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy essential oils with Food Stamps or EBT.
Essential oils are not considered food items or beverages, which are the primary categories covered by SNAP benefits. The program is designed to assist with purchasing groceries and other food-related products, excluding non-food items like essential oils. This restriction ensures that SNAP benefits are used to support nutritional needs.
How to Check If Essential Oils Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if essential oils 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 essential oils 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 essential oils 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.
Prepared Foods: Hot foods and foods meant for immediate consumption 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 specific item. The cashier or the self-checkout system will notify you that the item is not covered by SNAP benefits. You will need to pay for the ineligible item using another form of payment, such as cash or a credit card.
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, and 7-Eleven. This can help you stretch your benefits further. Learn more about Benny and start managing your SNAP benefits more effectively today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are there any exceptions where essential oils can be purchased with SNAP benefits?
No, essential oils are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits under any circumstances. They are classified as non-food items, which are not covered by the program.
2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I attempt to buy essential oils?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you attempt to buy essential oils. However, the transaction for the essential oils will be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment.
3. Can I purchase a basket containing essential oils with my SNAP benefits?
No, if a basket contains essential oils, the cost of the essential oils will not be covered by SNAP benefits. You will need to pay for the essential oils separately using another form of payment.
4. Are there any food-related products similar to essential oils that are eligible for purchase with SNAP?
Yes, certain food-related products like cooking oils and spices are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. These items are considered food products and are covered by the program.
