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 gift cards are an eligible purchase.
Can I Buy Gift Cards with Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy gift cards with Food Stamps or SNAP.
The reason is that SNAP benefits are strictly intended for purchasing eligible food items. Gift cards, which can be used to buy non-food items, do not meet the program's guidelines. This ensures that the benefits are used directly for nutritional needs, supporting the program's goal of providing food security to low-income households.
How to Check If Gift Cards is SNAP-Eligible
To check if gift cards 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 gift cards 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 gift cards 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 toiletries are excluded.
Hot Foods: Foods that are hot at the point of sale, such as deli meals, are not covered.
Pet Foods: Pet food and supplies are not eligible for SNAP benefits.
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 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 for the ineligible item or remove it from your purchase.
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 to the rule that gift cards cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits?
No, there are no exceptions. Gift cards are universally ineligible for purchase with SNAP benefits, as they can be used to buy non-food items.
2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I attempt to buy a gift card with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted. However, the transaction for the gift card will be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment.
3. Can I purchase a basket that includes a gift card with my SNAP benefits?
No, if a basket contains a gift card, the entire basket is ineligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. You would need to remove the gift card to use your SNAP benefits for the remaining items.
4. Are there any penalties for repeatedly attempting to buy gift cards with SNAP benefits?
While there are no direct penalties for attempting to buy gift cards, repeated attempts may lead to scrutiny of your account. It's best to adhere to the guidelines to avoid any potential issues.
