Shopping with SNAP
May 4, 2025
Understanding what can and cannot be bought with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, previously known as food stamps, helps recipients spend their benefits wisely. Many wonder if melatonin is an eligible purchase.
Can You Buy Melatonin with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy melatonin with Food Stamps or EBT.
Melatonin is considered a dietary supplement, and SNAP benefits are restricted to purchasing food items. Supplements, vitamins, and medicines fall outside the program's guidelines, making them ineligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
How to Check If Melatonin Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if melatonin 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 melatonin 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 melatonin 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.
Non-Food Items: Cosmetics, hygiene products, and other non-food essentials 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 isn't covered by SNAP benefits. You'll need to pay for it using another form of payment, such as cash or a credit card, to complete 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, 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. Learn more about how Benny can help you manage your SNAP benefits effectively by visiting Benny.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is melatonin not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
Melatonin is classified as a dietary supplement, and SNAP benefits are restricted to food items. Supplements, vitamins, and medicines fall outside the program's guidelines, making them ineligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy melatonin with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you attempt to buy melatonin. The transaction for the ineligible item will simply be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment.
3. Are baskets containing melatonin eligible for purchase with SNAP?
No, if your shopping basket contains melatonin, the cost of the melatonin will not be covered by SNAP benefits. You will need to pay for the melatonin separately using another form of payment.
4. How can I ensure that I am not purchasing ineligible items like melatonin with my SNAP benefits?
To avoid purchasing ineligible items, look for "EBT/SNAP eligible" shelf tags or icons on retailer websites. If still unsure, ask the cashier or call your state SNAP hotline before making a purchase.
