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 prenatal vitamins qualify as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Prenatal Vitamins with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy prenatal vitamins with Food Stamps or EBT.
SNAP benefits are designed to cover essential food items and beverages. Prenatal vitamins, classified as supplements, do not fall under the category of eligible food items. Therefore, they are not covered by SNAP benefits.
How to Check If Prenatal Vitamins Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if prenatal vitamins 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?
While prenatal vitamins 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 prenatal vitamins 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 Prepared Foods: Meals that are hot at the point of sale, such as those from deli counters.
Non-Food Items: Cosmetics, hygiene products, and other non-edible goods.
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 isn't covered by SNAP benefits. You'll need to pay for it using another form of payment or remove it from your purchase. 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 helps you 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 more effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are prenatal vitamins ever eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
No, prenatal vitamins are classified as supplements and are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. They do not fall under the category of essential food items covered by the program.
2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy prenatal vitamins with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you attempt to buy prenatal vitamins. The transaction for the ineligible item will simply 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 items that includes prenatal vitamins with SNAP benefits?
No, if your basket contains prenatal vitamins, the cost of those vitamins will not be covered by SNAP benefits. You will need to pay for the prenatal vitamins separately using another form of payment.
4. Are there any exceptions to the rule that prenatal vitamins are not eligible for purchase with SNAP?
No, there are no exceptions. Prenatal vitamins are universally classified as supplements and are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits in any state.
