Apr 24, 2025
Understanding what can and cannot be bought with SNAP, previously known as Food Stamps, helps recipients use their benefits effectively. Many wonder if wine is an eligible purchase.
Can I Buy Wine with Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy wine with Food Stamps or SNAP.
SNAP benefits are intended to help low-income individuals and families purchase nutritious food. Alcoholic beverages, including wine, are not considered essential for nutrition and are therefore excluded from the list of eligible items. This restriction ensures that the benefits are used to support a healthy diet.
How to Check If Wine is SNAP-Eligible
To check if wine is SNAP-eligible, look for "EBT/SNAP eligible" shelf tags or icons on retailer websites. Most major grocers label qualifying foods, making it easy 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?
While wine isn'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 I Not Buy with SNAP?
While SNAP benefits cover a wide range of essential food items, there are products like wine that cannot be purchased with these benefits, including:
Alcoholic Beverages: Beer, liquor, and other alcoholic drinks are not eligible.
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, the transaction will be declined at checkout. The cashier or the self-checkout system will notify you that the item cannot be purchased with your EBT card. You will need to use another form of payment for the ineligible item or remove it from your purchase altogether.
Manage Your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Managing your SNAP benefits can be 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. Does the rule on wine's SNAP eligibility vary by state?
No, the rule on wine's SNAP eligibility does not vary by state. Wine is universally ineligible for purchase with SNAP benefits across all states.
2. Can my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy wine with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you try to buy wine with SNAP. However, the transaction will be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment for the wine.
3. Are baskets containing wine eligible for purchase with SNAP?
No, baskets containing wine are not eligible for purchase with SNAP. You would need to remove the wine from the basket or pay for it separately using another form of payment.
4. Why is wine not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
Wine is not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits because it is considered an alcoholic beverage. SNAP benefits are intended to support the purchase of nutritious food, and alcoholic beverages do not fall under this category.
