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 Costco membership qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy a Costco Membership with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy a Costco membership with Food Stamps or EBT.
This is because SNAP benefits are strictly designated for purchasing eligible food items. Membership fees, including those for wholesale clubs like Costco, do not fall under the approved categories for SNAP purchases. The program aims to ensure that recipients use their benefits to buy essential groceries, not services or memberships.
How to Check If a Costco Membership Is SNAP-Eligible
To determine if an item is SNAP-eligible, check its label. Items with a "Nutrition Facts" label are likely eligible, while those with a "Supplement Facts" label are not. Additionally, hot, prepared foods meant for immediate consumption are generally ineligible. For example:
Frozen vegetables: They have a "Nutrition Facts" label and are intended for home consumption. Therefore, they are SNAP-eligible.
Hot pizza: 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 Costco membership that cannot be purchased with these benefits, including:
Alcoholic Beverages: Beer, wine, and other alcoholic drinks are strictly prohibited under SNAP guidelines.
Vitamins and Supplements: Items labeled with "Supplement Facts" are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
Non-Food Items: Household supplies, pet food, and personal care products are not covered by SNAP.
Hot Prepared Foods: Meals that are hot and ready for immediate consumption, such as those from a deli or restaurant, are not eligible.
What Happens If You Try to Buy an Ineligible Item with an EBT Card?
If you attempt 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 is not covered by SNAP benefits. You will need to use another form of payment to complete the purchase or remove the item from your order. 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 for managing your SNAP benefits effectively. With Benny, you can 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
Are there any exceptions to the rule that Costco memberships cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits?
No, there are no exceptions. Costco memberships are considered a service, and SNAP benefits are strictly for purchasing eligible food items. Therefore, memberships cannot be bought with EBT cards under any circumstances.
Will my EBT benefits be halted if I attempt to buy a Costco membership with them?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you try to buy a Costco membership. However, the transaction will be declined at checkout, and you will need to use another form of payment or remove the membership from your order.
Can I purchase a basket of items that includes a Costco membership with my EBT card?
No, you cannot purchase a basket of items that includes a Costco membership with your EBT card. The membership fee will need to be paid separately using another form of payment, while the eligible food items can be purchased with your SNAP benefits.
Does the rule about Costco membership eligibility for SNAP benefits vary by state?
No, the rule does not vary by state. SNAP is a federal program, and its guidelines are consistent across all states. Therefore, Costco memberships are universally ineligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
