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. Many recipients may wonder if Halls, a common cough drop, is an eligible purchase.
Can You Buy Halls with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy Halls with Food Stamps or EBT.
The reason Halls is not eligible under SNAP is that it is classified as a medicinal product rather than a food item. SNAP benefits are intended for purchasing food and beverages, and items like cough drops fall outside the program's guidelines. Therefore, products that are primarily used for health or medical purposes are not covered.
How to Check If Halls Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if Halls 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.
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?
While Halls isn'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 You Not Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?
While SNAP benefits cover a wide range of essential food items, there are products like Halls 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 item. 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 to proceed.
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 helps you stretch your benefits further. Learn more about Benny and start maximizing your SNAP benefits today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is Halls not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
Halls is classified as a medicinal product rather than a food item. SNAP benefits are intended for purchasing food and beverages, and items like cough drops fall outside the program's guidelines.
2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy Halls with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted. The transaction for Halls will simply be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment or remove the item from your purchase.
3. Are baskets containing Halls eligible for purchase with SNAP?
No, if your shopping basket contains Halls, the cost of the Halls will not be covered by SNAP benefits. You will need to pay for the Halls separately using another form of payment.
4. How can I confirm if a product similar to Halls is eligible for purchase with SNAP?
Check for “EBT/SNAP eligible” shelf tags or icons on retailer websites. You can also compare the product to USDA rules or ask the cashier for assistance.
