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 herbs qualify as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Herbs with EBT/ Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy herbs with Food Stamps or SNAP.
Herbs are considered food items under SNAP guidelines, making them eligible for purchase. This includes fresh, dried, and packaged herbs, as long as they are intended for human consumption. The program aims to provide access to nutritious food, and herbs fall under this category due to their culinary and nutritional value.
How to Check If Herbs Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if herbs 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 while shopping.
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 herbs, 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.
Vitamins and Supplements: Items with a "Supplement Facts" label are excluded.
Prepared Foods: Hot foods and foods meant for immediate consumption are not covered.
Non-Food Items: Household supplies, pet foods, and hygiene products 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 specific 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 the ineligible item using another form of payment, such as cash or a credit card.
Manage Your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Managing your SNAP benefits is easier with Benny. Our app allows you to check your EBT balance and transactions instantly, ensuring you always know your available funds.
Additionally, you can earn cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. Learn more about Benny and start maximizing your benefits today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are all types of herbs eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
Yes, both fresh and dried herbs are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits as long as they are intended for human consumption. This includes packaged herbs found in the grocery store's produce or spice sections.
2. Can I buy potted herb plants with my EBT card?
Yes, you can buy potted herb plants with your EBT card. SNAP benefits cover plants and seeds that produce food for the household to eat.
3. Do SNAP rules for buying herbs vary by state?
No, SNAP rules for buying herbs do not vary by state. Herbs are considered food items under federal SNAP guidelines, making them eligible for purchase nationwide.
4. Are there any restrictions on the quantity of herbs I can buy with SNAP benefits?
No, there are no specific restrictions on the quantity of herbs you can buy with SNAP benefits. You can purchase as much as your benefits allow, just like with other eligible food items.
