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 salt qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Salt with EBT/ Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy salt with Food Stamps or SNAP.
Salt is considered a staple food item, which makes it eligible for purchase under SNAP guidelines. The program allows for the purchase of most food items intended for human consumption, and salt falls into this category as a basic cooking ingredient.
How to Check If Salt Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if salt 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 salt, 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 cleaning products, paper goods, and pet food are excluded.
Vitamins and Supplements: Products labeled with "Supplement Facts" are not covered.
Prepared Foods: Hot foods and foods meant for immediate consumption 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 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 benefits are used only for approved items.
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.
Additionally, Benny offers 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 salt eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
Yes, all types of salt, including table salt, sea salt, and kosher salt, are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits as they are considered staple food items.
2. Can I buy flavored or specialty salts with my EBT card?
Yes, flavored or specialty salts, such as garlic salt or Himalayan pink salt, can be purchased with your EBT card as long as they are intended for human consumption.
3. Are there any restrictions on the quantity of salt I can buy with SNAP benefits?
No, there are no specific restrictions on the quantity of salt you can buy with SNAP benefits. You can purchase as much as you need for your household.
4. Do SNAP eligibility rules for salt vary by state?
No, SNAP eligibility rules for salt do not vary by state. Salt is universally considered a staple food item and is eligible for purchase under federal SNAP guidelines.
