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. A common question is whether wine qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Wine with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy wine with Food Stamps or EBT.
Wine is considered an alcoholic beverage, and SNAP benefits are strictly prohibited from being used to purchase any form of alcohol. The program is designed to help low-income individuals and families buy nutritious food, and alcoholic beverages do not fall under this category. Therefore, wine and other alcoholic drinks are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
How to Check If Wine 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 eligible. For example:
Frozen pizza: It has a "Nutrition Facts" label and is intended for home consumption. Therefore, it is SNAP-eligible.
Hot deli sandwich: 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.
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 wine that cannot be purchased with these benefits, including:
Household Supplies: Items such as cleaning products, paper goods, and other non-food essentials are not covered by SNAP benefits.
Vitamins and Supplements: Products with a "Supplement Facts" label, including vitamins and dietary supplements, are ineligible for purchase.
Pet Food: Food intended for pets is not considered a food item for human consumption and thus cannot be bought with SNAP benefits.
Hot Prepared Foods: Meals that are hot and ready for immediate consumption, such as those from a deli counter, are not eligible for purchase.
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
Managing your SNAP benefits is easier with Benny. Our app lets you check your EBT balance and transactions in real-time, helping you stay on top of your spending. Plus, earn cash back on groceries and other purchases at popular stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven.
Download Benny to start saving on your EBT benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is wine ever eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
No, wine is never eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. The program strictly prohibits the use of benefits for any alcoholic beverages, including wine.
Can a basket containing wine be purchased with SNAP benefits?
No, if your shopping basket contains wine, the wine itself cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits. You will need to use another form of payment for the wine, while eligible items in the basket can be bought with your EBT card.
Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy wine with SNAP?
Your EBT benefits will not be halted if you attempt to buy wine with SNAP. However, the transaction will be declined at checkout, and you will need to use another form of payment for the wine.
Are there any exceptions to the rule that wine cannot be bought with SNAP?
There are no exceptions to the rule. Wine and all other alcoholic beverages are universally ineligible for purchase with SNAP benefits, regardless of the state or store.
