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 5 hour Energy qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy 5 Hour Energy with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy 5 hour Energy with Food Stamps or EBT.
This is because 5 hour Energy is classified as a supplement, not a food item. SNAP benefits are intended for purchasing food and beverages that provide nutritional value. Since 5 hour Energy is labeled as a dietary supplement, it does not meet the criteria for SNAP eligibility.
How to Check If 5 Hour Energy Is SNAP-Eligible
To determine if an item is SNAP-eligible, check its label. If it 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 SNAP-eligible. For example:
Frozen pizza: It’s cold, packaged, and intended for home consumption. Therefore, it is SNAP-eligible.
Hot soup from a deli: 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 5 hour Energy that cannot be purchased with these benefits, including:
Alcoholic Beverages: Beer, wine, and other alcoholic drinks are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
Vitamins and Supplements: Items with a "Supplement Facts" label, such as vitamins and dietary supplements, are not covered.
Non-Food Items: Household supplies, pet foods, and other non-food products are not eligible for purchase.
Prepared Foods: Hot foods and foods meant for immediate consumption, like deli meals, are not covered by SNAP benefits.
What Happens If You Try to Buy an Ineligible Item with an EBT Card?
If you try to buy an ineligible item with an 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 our app, you can check your EBT balance and transactions in real-time, helping you stay on top of your spending. Plus, you can 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 5 hour Energy eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
No, 5 hour Energy is not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. It is classified as a dietary supplement, which does not meet the criteria for SNAP eligibility.
Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy 5 hour Energy with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you attempt to buy 5 hour Energy. However, the transaction will be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment or remove the item from your purchase.
Are baskets containing 5 hour Energy eligible for purchase with SNAP?
No, if your shopping basket contains 5 hour Energy, the entire basket is not disqualified. Only the ineligible item, 5 hour Energy, will be declined at checkout, while the rest of your SNAP-eligible items can still be purchased.
Does the rule on 5 hour Energy's SNAP eligibility vary by state?
No, the rule on 5 hour Energy's SNAP eligibility does not vary by state. Since it is classified as a dietary supplement, it is universally ineligible for purchase with SNAP benefits across all states.
