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. Many wonder if Monster, a popular energy drink, is an eligible purchase.
Can You Buy Monster with EBT/ Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy Monster with Food Stamps or SNAP.
Monster is eligible because it is classified as a food item. SNAP benefits cover most beverages, including energy drinks, as long as they have a nutrition facts label. This label indicates that the product is considered a consumable food item, making it eligible for purchase with EBT.
How to Check If Monster Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if Monster 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 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 Monster, 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.
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.
Special Dietary Foods: Gluten-free, diabetic-friendly, and allergen-free foods.
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 soap, paper products, and cleaning supplies are excluded.
Vitamins and Supplements: Products with a supplement facts label are not covered.
Hot Prepared Foods: Meals that are hot at the point of sale, such as those from deli counters, 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 cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits. You will need to use another form of payment or remove the item 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 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
Here are some frequently asked questions about buying Monster with food stamps:
1. Are all flavors of Monster eligible for purchase with SNAP? Yes, all flavors of Monster are eligible for purchase with SNAP as long as they have a nutrition facts label, indicating they are considered food items.
2. Can I buy Monster at any store with my EBT card? Yes, you can buy Monster at any store that accepts EBT and sells the product. Most major grocery stores and convenience stores carry Monster and accept SNAP benefits.
3. Does the eligibility of Monster vary by state? No, the eligibility of Monster does not vary by state. As long as the product has a nutrition facts label, it is considered a food item and is eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits nationwide.
4. Can I buy Monster online with my EBT card? Yes, you can buy Monster online with your EBT card if the retailer accepts SNAP benefits for online purchases. Check the retailer's website for EBT acceptance and eligible items.
