Can You Buy Plants with EBT/Food Stamps? (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 plants qualify as an approved purchase.

Can You Buy Plants with EBT/ Food Stamps?

Yes, you can buy plants with Food Stamps or SNAP.

Plants that produce food, such as vegetable seeds and fruit trees, are eligible because they help recipients grow their own food. This aligns with SNAP's goal of promoting self-sufficiency and access to nutritious food options.

How to Check If Plants is SNAP-Eligible

To check if plants are SNAP-eligible, look for "EBT/SNAP eligible" shelf tags or icons on retailer websites. Most major grocers label qualifying items, making it easier to identify eligible plants.

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?

Besides plants, you might be surprised to know that SNAP benefits cover many of these items:

• 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.

• Snack Foods: Chips, ice cream, candy, and other snacks.

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 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 using another form of payment, such as cash or a credit card.

Manage Your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny

Managing your SNAP benefits just got easier with Benny. Our app allows you to check your EBT balance and transactions instantly, eliminating the need for phone calls or receipt checks.

With Benny, you can also earn cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, 7-Eleven, and many more. This makes managing your benefits more effective and rewarding.

Learn more about how Benny can help you by visiting Benny today.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are all types of plants eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?

No, only plants that produce food, such as vegetable seeds and fruit trees, are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. Ornamental plants and flowers are not covered.

2. Do SNAP eligibility rules for plants vary by state?

No, the eligibility rules for purchasing plants with SNAP benefits are federally regulated and do not vary by state. All states follow the same guidelines set by the USDA.

3. Can I buy gardening supplies with SNAP benefits?

No, SNAP benefits do not cover gardening supplies such as soil, pots, or tools. Only the plants and seeds that produce food are eligible.

4. Are there any restrictions on the amount of plants I can buy with SNAP benefits?

There are no specific restrictions on the amount of eligible plants you can buy with SNAP benefits. However, your total purchase must stay within your available SNAP balance.