Shopping with SNAP
Apr 24, 2025
Understanding what can and cannot be bought with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps recipients spend their benefits wisely. Many recipients may wonder whether flowers, previously known as food stamps, qualify as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Flowers with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy flowers with Food Stamps or EBT.
Flowers are considered non-food items and are not essential for nutrition. SNAP benefits are strictly intended for purchasing food and beverages that contribute to a household's dietary needs. Therefore, items like flowers, which do not provide nutritional value, are not eligible for purchase under the program.
How to Check If Flowers Is SNAP-Eligible
To determine if an item is SNAP-eligible, check its label. If it has a "Nutrition Facts" label, it is likely eligible. Conversely, items with a "Supplement Facts" label are not eligible. Additionally, hot, prepared foods meant for immediate consumption are generally not SNAP-eligible. For example:
Frozen vegetables: They have a "Nutrition Facts" label and are intended for home consumption. Therefore, they are SNAP-eligible.
Hot pizza: It’s hot, prepared, and meant for immediate consumption. Therefore, it is not SNAP-eligible.
If in doubt, compare the product to USDA rules to determine SNAP eligibility.
Large chain stores often use small shelf labels or icons that say "SNAP Eligible" or "EBT Accepted." Websites of large chains like Walmart, Amazon, or delivery platforms like Instacart often let you filter by SNAP-eligible items. If still unsure, ask the shop assistant before making a purchase.
What Else Can You Not Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?
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 other alcoholic drinks are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
Vitamins and Supplements: Items with a "Supplement Facts" label, such as vitamins and dietary supplements, are not covered.
Hot Foods: Prepared foods meant for immediate consumption, like hot deli items, are not eligible.
Non-Food Items: Household supplies, pet foods, and personal care products cannot be bought with SNAP benefits.
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 at checkout. 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. This ensures that SNAP benefits are used only for eligible food items.
Manage Your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Benny is a great option to manage your SNAP benefits effectively. With Benny, you can check your EBT balance and transactions in real-time, helping you stay on top of your EBT spending. Plus, you can earn cash back on groceries and other purchases at popular stores such as Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. Download Benny to start saving on your EBT benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any exceptions where flowers can be purchased with SNAP benefits?
No, there are no exceptions. Flowers are considered non-food items and do not provide nutritional value, making them ineligible for purchase with SNAP benefits under any circumstances.
Can baskets containing flowers be purchased with SNAP benefits?
No, baskets containing flowers cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits. Even if the basket includes food items, the presence of flowers disqualifies the entire basket from being eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
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. However, the transaction will be declined at checkout, and you will need to use another form of payment or remove the flowers from your purchase.
Do SNAP eligibility rules for flowers vary by state?
No, SNAP eligibility rules for flowers do not vary by state. Flowers are universally considered non-food items and are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits across all states.
