Can You Buy Tomato Plants with EBT/Food Stamps? (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 tomato plants qualify as an approved purchase.

Can You Buy Tomato Plants with EBT/ Food Stamps?

Yes, you can buy tomato plants with EBT or Food Stamps.

This is because SNAP benefits cover seeds and plants that produce food for the household to eat. By allowing the purchase of tomato plants, SNAP supports recipients in growing their own food, which can be a cost-effective and nutritious option. This policy encourages self-sufficiency and helps families stretch their food budgets further.

How to Check If Tomato Plants Is SNAP-Eligible

To determine if an item is SNAP-eligible, check its label. If the item has a "Nutrition Facts" label, it is likely eligible. Conversely, if it has a "Supplement Facts" label, it is not eligible. Additionally, hot, prepared foods meant for immediate consumption are generally not covered by SNAP. For example:

• Packaged bread: It has a "Nutrition Facts" label and is intended for home consumption. Therefore, it is SNAP-eligible.

• Hot pizza: It’s hot, prepared, and meant for immediate consumption. Therefore, it is not SNAP-eligible.

If in doubt, compare the product to USDA rules to determine SNAP eligibility.

Additionally, 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.

Surprising Things You Can Buy with EBT

Besides tomato plants, 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.

• Snack Foods: Chips, ice cream, candy, and other snacks.

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 approved 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 restrictions on the type of tomato plants you can buy with SNAP benefits?

Yes, SNAP benefits can only be used to purchase tomato plants that are intended for growing food. Ornamental or decorative tomato plants that do not produce edible tomatoes are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.

Can you buy tomato seeds with SNAP benefits?

Yes, you can buy tomato seeds with SNAP benefits. Like tomato plants, seeds that produce food for the household to eat are covered under SNAP, supporting recipients in growing their own food.

Do all stores that accept EBT sell tomato plants?

No, not all stores that accept EBT sell tomato plants. Availability depends on the store's inventory and whether they carry gardening supplies. It's best to check with the store beforehand or visit a garden center that accepts EBT.

Can you use SNAP benefits to buy other gardening supplies along with tomato plants?

No, SNAP benefits cannot be used to buy gardening supplies such as pots, soil, or fertilizer. Only seeds and plants that produce food for the household to eat, like tomato plants, are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.