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 fish qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Fish with EBT/ Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy fish with Food Stamps or SNAP.
Fish is considered a staple food item, which makes it eligible for purchase under SNAP. The program allows recipients to buy nutritious foods, including seafood, to ensure a balanced diet. This includes fresh, frozen, and canned fish, as long as it is intended for human consumption.
How to Check If Fish Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if fish 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.
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 fish, 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.
Snack Foods: Chips, ice cream, candy, and other snacks.
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: Prepared foods meant for immediate consumption, 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 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, helping you stay on top of your benefits without hassle.
Additionally, Benny offers cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. This means you can save more while shopping for essentials. Learn more about Benny and start managing your SNAP benefits more effectively today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are all types of fish eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
Yes, all types of fish, including fresh, frozen, and canned varieties, are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits as long as they are intended for human consumption.
2. Can you buy live fish with SNAP benefits?
No, live fish are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. Only fish that are processed and intended for human consumption can be bought using EBT cards.
3. Are there any state-specific rules regarding the purchase of fish with SNAP benefits?
No, the eligibility of fish for purchase with SNAP benefits does not vary by state. The USDA sets the guidelines, and fish is considered a staple food item nationwide.
4. Can you buy fish from a farmers' market with SNAP benefits?
Yes, you can buy fish from a farmers' market with SNAP benefits, provided the market and the vendor accept EBT payments. Many farmers' markets now participate in the SNAP program to offer fresh, local produce and seafood.
