Can You Buy Non Food Items with EBT/Food Stamps? (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 recipients may wonder whether non-food items qualify as an approved purchase.

Can You Buy Non Food Items with EBT/ Food Stamps?

No, you cannot buy non food items with Food Stamps or EBT.

The SNAP program is designed to assist low-income households in purchasing nutritious food. Non food items, such as household supplies, toiletries, and other essentials, are not covered because the program's primary goal is to ensure that recipients have access to food. This restriction helps maintain the focus on nutritional support.

How to Check If Non Food Items Is SNAP-Eligible

To determine if a non-food item is SNAP-eligible, look for "EBT/SNAP eligible" shelf tags in stores or icons on retailer websites. Most major grocers label qualifying items, making it easier to identify approved purchases.

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 non food items 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 non food items that cannot be purchased with these benefits, including:

• Alcoholic Beverages: Beer, wine, and liquor are not eligible for purchase.

• Vitamins and Supplements: Items with a "Supplement Facts" label are excluded.

• Prepared Foods: Hot foods and foods meant to be eaten in-store are not covered.

• Pet Foods: Any food intended for pets is 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 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 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, 7-Eleven, and many more. This can help you stretch your benefits further. Learn more about Benny and start managing your SNAP benefits more effectively today.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are there any exceptions to the rule that non food items cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits?

No, there are no exceptions. Non food items are strictly ineligible for purchase with SNAP benefits, regardless of the state or retailer.

2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I attempt to buy non food items with SNAP?

No, your EBT benefits will not be halted. However, the transaction for the ineligible item 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 containing non food items with my SNAP benefits?

No, if a basket contains non food items, those specific items will not be covered by SNAP benefits. You will need to pay for the non food items separately using another form of payment.

4. Do the rules regarding non food items' SNAP eligibility vary by state?

No, the rules are consistent across all states. Non food items are universally ineligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.