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 school supplies qualify as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy School Supplies with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy school supplies with Food Stamps or EBT.
SNAP benefits are strictly designated for purchasing food items to ensure recipients have access to nutritious meals. Non-food items, including school supplies, do not qualify under the program's guidelines. This restriction helps maintain the program's focus on addressing food insecurity.
How to Check If School Supplies Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if school supplies 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 school supplies 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 school supplies 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 toiletries 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 isn't covered by SNAP benefits. You'll need to pay for it using another form of payment, such as cash or a credit card, to complete your purchase.
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. This makes it simpler to stretch your benefits further. Learn more about Benny and start managing your SNAP benefits more effectively today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are there any exceptions to the rule that school supplies cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits?
No, there are no exceptions. School supplies are universally ineligible for purchase with SNAP benefits, as the program is strictly for food items.
2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I attempt to buy school supplies with them?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted. However, the transaction for the ineligible item will be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment.
3. Can I purchase a basket containing school supplies with my SNAP benefits?
No, if a basket contains school supplies, those items will not be covered by SNAP benefits. You will need to separate the school supplies and pay for them with another form of payment.
4. Are there any programs that help with purchasing school supplies for families on SNAP?
Yes, some local charities and community organizations offer programs to help families in need with school supplies. It's worth checking with local resources for assistance.
