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 fruit trees qualify as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Fruit Trees with EBT/ Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy fruit trees with Food Stamps or SNAP.
Fruit trees are considered eligible because they produce food that can be consumed by the household. The goal of SNAP is to support access to nutritious food, and growing your own fruit aligns with this objective. By allowing the purchase of fruit trees, SNAP encourages self-sufficiency and long-term food security for recipients.
How to Check If Fruit Trees Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if fruit trees 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 You Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?
Besides fruit trees, 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.
Vitamins and Supplements: Products with a "Supplement Facts" label are not covered.
Hot Prepared Foods: Meals that are hot at the point of sale 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 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 it using another form of payment or remove it from your purchase altogether.
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 checking 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 all types of fruit trees eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
Yes, all types of fruit trees that produce food for household consumption are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. This includes apple trees, orange trees, and other fruit-bearing trees.
2. Do I need to buy fruit trees from specific retailers to use my SNAP benefits?
You can buy fruit trees from any retailer that accepts EBT and sells eligible food items. Look for “EBT/SNAP eligible” tags or ask the retailer to confirm.
3. Can I use SNAP benefits to buy fruit trees online?
Yes, you can use SNAP benefits to buy fruit trees online from retailers that accept EBT payments. Make sure the online store is authorized to process EBT transactions.
4. Are there any restrictions on the size or type of fruit trees I can buy with SNAP benefits?
No, there are no specific restrictions on the size or type of fruit trees you can buy with SNAP benefits. As long as the tree produces food for household consumption, it is eligible.
