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. Many recipients may wonder whether a Walmart gift card qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy a Walmart Gift Card with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy a Walmart gift card with Food Stamps or EBT.
This is because SNAP benefits are intended to be used for purchasing eligible food items. Gift cards, including those from Walmart, do not fall under the category of approved food purchases. The program aims to ensure that recipients use their benefits directly for nutritional needs rather than for items that can be exchanged for non-food products.
How to Check If a Walmart Gift Card 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, items with a "Supplement Facts" label are not eligible. Additionally, hot, prepared foods meant for immediate consumption are generally not SNAP-eligible. 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 Walmart gift card 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 with a "Supplement Facts" label, such as vitamins and protein powders, are not eligible for purchase.
Non-Food Items: Household supplies, pet food, and personal care products cannot be bought with SNAP benefits.
Hot Foods: Prepared foods meant for immediate consumption, like hot deli items, are not covered by SNAP.
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 for the ineligible item or remove it 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
Are Walmart gift cards eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits in any state?
No, Walmart gift cards are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits in any state. SNAP benefits are strictly for purchasing food items that meet specific nutritional guidelines, and gift cards do not fall under this category.
Will my EBT benefits be halted if I attempt to buy a Walmart gift card with SNAP?
Your EBT benefits will not be halted if you attempt to buy a Walmart gift card with SNAP. However, the transaction will be declined at checkout, and you will need to use another form of payment or remove the gift card from your purchase.
Can I purchase a basket of items that includes a Walmart gift card with SNAP benefits?
No, you cannot purchase a basket of items that includes a Walmart gift card with SNAP benefits. The gift card will need to be removed from the basket or paid for with a different form of payment, as it is not an eligible item under SNAP guidelines.
Are there any exceptions to the rule that Walmart gift cards cannot be bought with SNAP benefits?
There are no exceptions to the rule that Walmart gift cards cannot be bought with SNAP benefits. The guidelines are clear that SNAP benefits are intended solely for the purchase of eligible food items, and gift cards do not qualify.
