Apr 24, 2025
Understanding what can and cannot be bought with SNAP, previously known as Food Stamps, helps recipients use their benefits effectively. Many wonder if flowers are an eligible purchase.
Can I Buy Flowers with Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy flowers with Food Stamps or SNAP.
SNAP benefits are intended to help low-income households purchase food and beverages for home consumption. Since flowers are not considered essential food items, they do not qualify for purchase under the program. The primary goal of SNAP is to ensure recipients have access to nutritious food, and non-food items like flowers fall outside this scope.
How to Check If Flowers is SNAP-Eligible
To check if flowers 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.
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 I Buy with SNAP?
While flowers 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 I Not Buy with SNAP?
While SNAP benefits cover a wide range of essential food items, there are products like flowers 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 I Try to Buy an Ineligible Item with EBT?
If you try to buy an ineligible item with SNAP at checkout, the transaction will be declined for that specific item. The cashier or the self-checkout system will notify you that the item cannot be purchased with your EBT card. You will need to use another form of payment or remove the item from your purchase to complete the transaction.
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.
Additionally, Benny lets 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 SNAP benefits more effectively today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are there any exceptions where flowers can be purchased with SNAP?
No, flowers are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits under any circumstances. The program strictly covers food items meant for home consumption.
2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy flowers with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you attempt to buy flowers. The transaction will simply be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment.
3. Can I buy gift baskets containing flowers with SNAP?
No, gift baskets containing flowers are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. Only food items within the basket that meet SNAP guidelines can be purchased.
4. Do SNAP rules regarding flower purchases vary by state?
No, SNAP rules are federally regulated, and flowers are universally ineligible for purchase with SNAP benefits across all states.
