Apr 24, 2025
Understanding what can and cannot be bought with SNAP benefits, previously known as Food Stamps, helps recipients spend their benefits wisely. Many recipients may wonder whether snacks qualify as an approved purchase.
Can I Buy Snacks with Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy snacks with Food Stamps or SNAP.
Snacks are considered eligible food items under SNAP because they fall under the category of foods intended for home consumption. This includes items like chips, cookies, and candy. The program aims to provide flexibility in food choices, allowing recipients to purchase a variety of foods to meet their dietary needs and preferences.
How to Check If Snacks is SNAP-Eligible
To check if snacks are 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 I Buy with SNAP?
Besides snacks, 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.
Special Dietary Foods: Gluten-free, diabetic-friendly, and allergen-free foods.
What Can I Not Buy with SNAP?
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 I Try to Buy an Ineligible Item with EBT?
If you try to buy an ineligible item with SNAP at checkout, 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 your EBT card. 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, helping you stay on top of your benefits.
Additionally, Benny lets you earn cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. Learn more about Benny and start managing your SNAP benefits more effectively today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are all types of snacks eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
Yes, most snacks are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits as long as they are intended for home consumption. This includes items like chips, cookies, and candy.
2. Can I buy energy bars with SNAP benefits?
Yes, you can buy energy bars with SNAP benefits if they are labeled with a "Nutrition Facts" panel. Bars labeled with "Supplement Facts" are not eligible.
3. Are there any restrictions on buying snacks with SNAP in different states?
No, the eligibility of snacks for purchase with SNAP benefits does not vary by state. The USDA sets the rules, and they apply uniformly across all states.
4. Can I use SNAP benefits to buy snack gift baskets?
Yes, you can use SNAP benefits to buy snack gift baskets as long as the basket contains only eligible food items. If the basket includes non-food items, those items must be paid for separately.
