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. A common question is whether milk qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Milk with EBT/ Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy milk with Food Stamps or SNAP.
Milk is considered a staple food item, which makes it eligible for purchase under SNAP guidelines. The program is designed to help low-income individuals and families access nutritious foods, and milk is a key source of essential nutrients like calcium and vitamin D.
How to Check If Milk Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if milk 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 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 milk, 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.
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 is not covered by SNAP benefits. You will need to pay for the ineligible item with another form of payment 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, 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 makes it simpler to save money while shopping. Learn more about Benny and start managing your SNAP benefits more effectively today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are all types of milk eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
Yes, all types of milk, including whole, skim, and plant-based alternatives like almond or soy milk, are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits as long as they are intended for human consumption and have a "Nutrition Facts" label.
2. Can I buy flavored milk with my EBT card?
Yes, flavored milk such as chocolate or strawberry milk is also eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. These products are considered staple food items and provide essential nutrients.
3. Are there any restrictions on the quantity of milk I can buy with SNAP benefits?
No, there are no specific restrictions on the quantity of milk you can purchase with SNAP benefits. You can buy as much milk as you need, provided you have sufficient funds in your EBT account.
4. Does the eligibility of milk for SNAP benefits vary by state?
No, the eligibility of milk for SNAP benefits does not vary by state. Milk is universally considered a staple food item and is covered under federal SNAP guidelines.
