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 popcorn tins qualify as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Popcorn Tins with EBT/ Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy popcorn tins with Food Stamps or SNAP.
Popcorn tins are considered a food item, which makes them eligible for purchase under SNAP guidelines. The program allows for the purchase of most food products intended for human consumption, and popcorn tins fall into this category. As long as the popcorn is not marketed as a gift item or part of a decorative package, it qualifies for SNAP benefits.
How to Check If Popcorn Tins Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if popcorn tins 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.
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 popcorn tins, 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 strictly prohibited.
Household Supplies: Items like soap, paper products, and cleaning supplies are not eligible.
Vitamins and Supplements: Products labeled with "Supplement Facts" are excluded.
Hot Prepared Foods: Meals that are hot at the point of sale cannot be bought with SNAP.
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 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 is 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, and 7-Eleven. Learn more about how Benny can help you manage your SNAP benefits effectively by visiting Benny.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are all types of popcorn tins eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
Not all types of popcorn tins are eligible. Popcorn tins marketed as gift items or part of a decorative package are not covered by SNAP benefits. Only those intended for direct consumption qualify.
2. Do SNAP eligibility rules for popcorn tins vary by state?
No, SNAP eligibility rules for popcorn tins do not vary by state. The USDA sets the guidelines, and they apply uniformly across all states.
3. Can I buy a gift basket containing a popcorn tin with SNAP benefits?
No, gift baskets containing popcorn tins are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. SNAP only covers food items intended for direct consumption, not those marketed as gifts.
4. How can I confirm if a specific popcorn tin is SNAP-eligible before purchasing?
Look for “EBT/SNAP eligible” shelf tags or icons on retailer websites. If still unsure, ask the cashier or call your state SNAP hotline for confirmation.
