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 worms qualify as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Worms with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy worms with Food Stamps or EBT.
Worms are not considered eligible under SNAP because they are not classified as food items intended for human consumption. SNAP benefits are designed to help recipients purchase groceries and other food products, and worms do not fall into this category. Therefore, they cannot be bought using EBT cards.
How to Check If Worms Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if worms are SNAP-eligible, look for "EBT/SNAP eligible" shelf tags or icons on retailer websites. Most major grocers label qualifying foods, making it easier 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 You Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?
While worms 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 worms 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.
Hot Foods: Foods that are hot at the point of sale, such as deli meals, are not covered.
Vitamins and Supplements: Products labeled with "Supplement Facts" are ineligible.
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 for that item. 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 to complete the transaction.
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 without hassle.
Additionally, Benny offers cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. This can help you stretch your benefits further. Learn more about Benny and start managing your SNAP benefits more effectively today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are worms ever eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
No, worms are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. They are not classified as food items intended for human consumption.
2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy worms with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you try to buy worms. However, the transaction for the worms will be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment.
3. Are baskets containing worms eligible for purchase with SNAP?
No, baskets containing worms are not eligible for purchase with SNAP. Since worms are not considered food items, any product containing them would also be ineligible.
4. Can I buy fishing bait with SNAP benefits?
No, fishing bait, including worms, is not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. SNAP is intended for food items meant for human consumption, and fishing bait does not fall into this category.
