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 vapes qualify as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Vapes with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy vapes with Food Stamps or EBT.
Vapes are considered non-food items and are not eligible for purchase under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The program is designed to help low-income individuals and families buy nutritious food, and vapes do not fall under this category. Therefore, they are excluded from the list of approved items.
How to Check If Vapes Is SNAP-Eligible
To determine if vapes are SNAP-eligible, look for "EBT/SNAP eligible" shelf tags or icons on retailer websites. Most major grocers label qualifying items, making it easier to identify approved products.
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 vapes 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 vapes 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.
Prepared Foods: Hot foods and foods meant for immediate consumption are not covered.
Non-Food Items: Vitamins, medicines, and cosmetics fall outside the program's scope.
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 point-of-sale 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 complete the transaction.
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 helps you earn cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. Learn more about how Benny can simplify your SNAP benefits management by visiting Benny.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are there any states where vapes are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
No, vapes are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits in any state. The federal guidelines for SNAP do not allow for the purchase of non-food items, including vapes.
2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy vapes with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you attempt to buy vapes. However, the transaction will be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment or remove the item from your purchase.
3. Can I buy a basket of groceries that includes vapes with my SNAP benefits?
No, you cannot use SNAP benefits to purchase a basket of groceries that includes vapes. You will need to separate the vapes from your other eligible items and pay for them with a different payment method.
4. Are there any penalties for repeatedly trying to buy vapes with SNAP benefits?
While there are no direct penalties for attempting to buy vapes with SNAP benefits, repeated attempts may draw attention to your account. It's best to avoid trying to purchase ineligible items to prevent any potential issues.
