Shopping with SNAP
Apr 24, 2025
Understanding what can and cannot be bought with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps recipients spend their benefits wisely. Many recipients may wonder whether supplements qualify as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Supplements with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy supplements with Food Stamps or EBT.
Supplements are not eligible under SNAP because they are classified as non-food items. The program is designed to assist with purchasing essential food items, and supplements do not fall under this category. Only items with a "Nutrition Facts" label are considered food, while those with a "Supplement Facts" label are not covered by SNAP benefits.
How to Check If Supplements Is SNAP-Eligible
To determine if an item is SNAP-eligible, check its label. Items with a "Nutrition Facts" label are generally eligible, while those with a "Supplement Facts" label are not. Additionally, hot, prepared foods meant for immediate consumption are typically ineligible. For example:
Frozen vegetables: They have a "Nutrition Facts" label and are intended for home consumption. Therefore, they are SNAP-eligible.
Hot pizza: It’s hot, prepared, and meant for immediate consumption. Therefore, it is not SNAP-eligible.
If in doubt, compare the item to USDA rules to determine SNAP eligibility.
Large chain stores often use small shelf labels or icons that say "SNAP Eligible" or "EBT Accepted." Websites of large chains like Walmart, Amazon, or delivery platforms like Instacart often let you filter by SNAP-eligible items. If still unsure, ask the shop assistant before making a purchase.
What Else Can You Not Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?
While SNAP benefits cover a wide range of essential food items, there are products like supplements that cannot be purchased with these benefits, including:
Alcoholic Beverages: Beer, wine, and other alcoholic drinks are not covered by SNAP benefits.
Pet Foods: Items intended for pets, such as dog or cat food, are ineligible for purchase with EBT.
Household Supplies: Cleaning products, paper goods, and other household items are not eligible.
Vitamins and Medicines: Over-the-counter medications and vitamins are not covered by SNAP benefits.
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 at checkout. 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. This ensures that SNAP benefits are used only for eligible food items.
Manage Your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Benny is a great option to manage your SNAP benefits effectively. With Benny, you can check your EBT balance and transactions in real-time, helping you stay on top of your EBT spending. Plus, you can earn cash back on groceries and other purchases at popular stores such as Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven.
Download Benny to start saving on your EBT benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any exceptions to the rule that supplements are not eligible for purchase with SNAP?
No, there are no exceptions. Supplements, regardless of their type or intended use, are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. This rule applies uniformly across all states and retailers.
Can a basket containing both eligible food items and supplements be purchased with SNAP benefits?
Yes, but only the eligible food items will be covered by SNAP benefits. The cost of the supplements will need to be paid with another form of payment. The checkout system will automatically separate the eligible and ineligible items.
Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy supplements with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted. However, the transaction for the supplements will be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment or remove the supplements from your purchase.
Do the rules regarding the eligibility of supplements for SNAP benefits vary by state?
No, the rules do not vary by state. Supplements are universally ineligible for purchase with SNAP benefits across all states. This is a federal regulation that applies to the entire SNAP program.
