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. Many recipients may wonder whether oil qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Oil with EBT/ Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy oil with Food Stamps or SNAP.
Oil is considered a staple food item, which makes it eligible for purchase under SNAP guidelines. The program allows for the purchase of essential cooking ingredients, and oil falls into this category as it is commonly used in meal preparation.
How to Check If Oil Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if oil is SNAP-eligible, look for "EBT/SNAP eligible" shelf tags in stores 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 making a purchase.
What Can You Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?
Besides oil, 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 soap, paper products, and cleaning supplies are excluded.
Vitamins and Supplements: Products labeled with "Supplement Facts" are not covered.
Hot Prepared Foods: Meals that are hot at the point of sale 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, 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. 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 all types of oil eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
Yes, all types of cooking oils, including vegetable oil, olive oil, and coconut oil, are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits as they are considered essential cooking ingredients.
2. Can I buy specialty oils like truffle oil with SNAP benefits?
Yes, specialty oils such as truffle oil are also eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits, as long as they are used for cooking or meal preparation.
3. Do SNAP eligibility rules for oil vary by state?
No, the eligibility rules for purchasing oil with SNAP benefits do not vary by state. All cooking oils are universally covered under federal SNAP guidelines.
4. Can I use SNAP benefits to buy oil online?
Yes, you can use SNAP benefits to buy oil online from retailers that accept EBT payments. Make sure to check if the online store is authorized to accept SNAP benefits.
