Shopping with SNAP
May 4, 2025
Understanding what can and cannot be bought with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps recipients use their benefits effectively. Many wonder if MiraLAX, a common laxative, is an eligible purchase.
Can You Buy Miralax with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy MiraLAX with Food Stamps or EBT.
MiraLAX is considered a medication, and SNAP benefits are restricted to purchasing food items. Non-food items, including over-the-counter medications like MiraLAX, are not covered under the program. This limitation ensures that SNAP benefits are used exclusively for nutritional needs.
How to Check If Miralax Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if MiraLAX 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 purchasing.
What Can You Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?
While MiraLAX 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 MiraLAX 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 Prepared Foods: Meals that are hot at the point of sale, such as those from deli counters, 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 isn't covered by SNAP benefits. You'll need to pay for it using another form of payment or remove it from your purchase. This ensures SNAP funds are used only for eligible food items.
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, eliminating the need for phone calls or receipt checks.
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 here.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is MiraLAX not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
MiraLAX is classified as an over-the-counter medication, and SNAP benefits are restricted to food items. Non-food items, including medications, are not covered under the program.
2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy MiraLAX with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted. The transaction for MiraLAX will simply be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment or remove it from your purchase.
3. Are baskets containing MiraLAX eligible for purchase with SNAP?
No, baskets containing MiraLAX are not eligible for purchase with SNAP. You will need to separate the ineligible item and pay for it separately.
4. Can I use my SNAP benefits to buy other medications similar to MiraLAX?
No, other over-the-counter medications similar to MiraLAX are also not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. The program strictly covers food items only.
