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 beef jerky qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Beef Jerky with EBT/ Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy beef jerky with EBT or Food Stamps.
Beef jerky is considered a staple food item under SNAP guidelines. Since it is a form of meat, it falls under the category of eligible food items that can be purchased with SNAP benefits. This includes most foods meant for home consumption, making beef jerky a permissible choice for those using EBT or Food Stamps.
How to Check If Beef Jerky 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, items with a "Supplement Facts" label are not eligible. Additionally, hot, prepared foods meant for immediate consumption are generally not SNAP-eligible. For example:
Packaged cheese: It has a "Nutrition Facts" label and is intended for home consumption. Therefore, it is 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.
Additionally, 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.
Surprising Things You Can Buy with EBT
Besides beef jerky, 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 are eligible. This allows recipients to cultivate their own fresh produce.
Farmers’ Markets: Many markets accept SNAP benefits, often through tokens or electronic payments, providing access to fresh, local produce.
Energy Drinks: If labeled with a "Nutrition Facts" panel, these drinks are eligible. However, those with a "Supplement Facts" label are not.
Bakery Items and Birthday Cakes: Decorated birthday cakes and baked goods are eligible, making celebrations more accessible.
Seafood and Fresh Meat: Fresh, frozen, or canned seafood and meats are covered, ensuring a variety of protein sources.
Snack Foods: Items like chips, ice cream, and candy are also eligible, allowing for occasional treats.
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 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 Benny, you can check your EBT balance and transactions in real-time, helping you stay on top of your EBT spending. Plus, you can earn cash back on groceries and other purchases at popular stores such as Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. Download Benny to start saving on your EBT benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a limit on how much beef jerky you can buy with EBT?
There is no specific limit on the amount of beef jerky you can purchase with EBT. As long as the total cost of your eligible items does not exceed your available SNAP benefits, you can buy as much beef jerky as you need.
Can you buy flavored beef jerky with EBT?
Yes, flavored beef jerky is eligible for purchase with EBT. Whether it’s teriyaki, peppered, or any other flavor, as long as it has a "Nutrition Facts" label, it qualifies under SNAP guidelines.
Are there any brands of beef jerky that are not eligible for purchase with EBT?
Most brands of beef jerky are eligible for purchase with EBT as long as they have a "Nutrition Facts" label. However, if a brand markets its beef jerky as a dietary supplement and uses a "Supplement Facts" label, it would not be eligible.
Can you buy beef jerky from online retailers with EBT?
Yes, you can buy beef jerky from online retailers that accept EBT. Websites like Amazon and Walmart allow you to filter for SNAP-eligible items, making it easy to find and purchase beef jerky with your benefits.
