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. A common question is whether multivitamins qualify as an approved purchase, as SNAP, previously known as food stamps, has specific guidelines.
Can You Buy Multivitamins with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy multivitamins with Food Stamps or EBT.
Multivitamins are not eligible under SNAP because the program only covers food items that provide nutritional value. Since multivitamins are considered supplements rather than food, they do not meet the criteria set by the USDA for SNAP-eligible purchases. The program aims to support the purchase of essential groceries, such as fruits, vegetables, and meats, to ensure recipients have access to nutritious meals.
How to Check If Multivitamins Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if multivitamins are 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.
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 multivitamins aren'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 multivitamins 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: Prepared 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-edible goods 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 cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits. You will need to use another form of payment or remove the item from your purchase to proceed. This ensures SNAP funds are used only for approved 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, helping you stay on top of your benefits without hassle.
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 more effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are there any exceptions to the rule that multivitamins are not eligible for purchase with SNAP?
No, there are no exceptions. Multivitamins are classified as supplements and are not covered under SNAP guidelines, which only include food items that provide direct nutritional value.
2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy multivitamins with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted. However, the transaction for the multivitamins will be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment or remove the item from your purchase.
3. Can I purchase a basket of groceries that includes multivitamins with my SNAP benefits?
Yes, you can purchase the rest of the groceries with your SNAP benefits, but the cost of the multivitamins will need to be covered by another form of payment.
4. How can I ensure that I am not accidentally trying to buy ineligible items like multivitamins with my EBT card?
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.
