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 ice is an eligible purchase.
Can I Buy Ice with Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy ice with Food Stamps or SNAP.
Ice is considered a food item under SNAP guidelines, making it eligible for purchase. This includes both bagged ice and block ice, as they are used for food preservation and consumption purposes.
How to Check If Ice is SNAP-Eligible
To check if ice is SNAP-eligible, look for “EBT/SNAP eligible” shelf tags or icons on retailer websites. Most major grocers label qualifying foods, making it easy 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?
Besides ice, 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.
Snack Foods: Chips, ice cream, candy, and other snacks.
What Can I Not Buy with SNAP?
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 soap, paper products, and cleaning supplies are excluded.
Vitamins and Supplements: Products labeled with "Supplement Facts" are not covered.
Hot Foods: Foods that are hot at the point of sale, such as deli meals, are ineligible.
What Happens If I Try to Buy an Ineligible Item with EBT?
If you try to buy an ineligible item with SNAP, 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 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 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. Is bagged ice eligible for purchase with SNAP?
Yes, bagged ice is eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. It is considered a food item under SNAP guidelines.
2. Can I buy block ice with my EBT card?
Yes, block ice can be purchased with your EBT card. Like bagged ice, it is classified as a food item and is therefore eligible.
3. Are there any states where ice is not eligible for purchase with SNAP?
No, ice is universally eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits across all states. The USDA guidelines apply nationwide, making ice a consistent SNAP-eligible item.
4. How can I confirm if a store accepts SNAP for ice purchases?
Look for “EBT/SNAP eligible” shelf tags or icons on retailer websites. You can also ask the cashier or check with your state SNAP hotline for confirmation.
