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 flour qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Flour with EBT/ Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy flour with Food Stamps or SNAP.
Flour is considered a staple food item, which makes it eligible for purchase under SNAP guidelines. The program allows recipients to buy essential ingredients used in home cooking and baking, ensuring they can prepare nutritious meals. This includes various types of flour, such as all-purpose, whole wheat, and specialty flours.
How to Check If Flour Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if flour 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 flour, 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 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 with another form of payment or remove it from your purchase.
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 checking receipts.
Additionally, Benny helps you earn 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. What types of flour can be purchased with SNAP benefits?
You can buy various types of flour with SNAP benefits, including all-purpose, whole wheat, and specialty flours like almond or coconut flour.
2. Are there any restrictions on the brands of flour that can be bought with SNAP?
No, there are no brand restrictions. As long as the flour is a staple food item, it is eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
3. Can I buy flour in bulk with my EBT card?
Yes, you can buy flour in bulk with your EBT card. There are no quantity restrictions as long as the flour is for personal use and not for resale.
4. Is organic flour eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
Yes, organic flour is eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. The program covers both conventional and organic food items.
