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 cold medicine qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Cold Medicine with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy cold medicine with Food Stamps or EBT.
This is because SNAP benefits are intended to cover food items and beverages that are essential for nutrition. Non-food items, including over-the-counter medications like cold medicine, are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. The program's guidelines are designed to ensure that recipients use their benefits for nutritional needs rather than medical or other non-food expenses.
How to Check If Cold Medicine 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, 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 has a "Nutrition Facts" label and is 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.
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.
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 cold medicine that cannot be purchased with these benefits, including:
Alcoholic Beverages: Beer, wine, and other alcoholic drinks are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
Household Supplies: Items such as cleaning products, paper goods, and other household necessities are not covered.
Pet Food: Food for pets is not considered a necessity for human nutrition and is therefore ineligible.
Vitamins and Supplements: Products with a "Supplement Facts" label, including vitamins and dietary supplements, cannot be bought with 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 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 for the ineligible item or remove it from your purchase altogether.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any states where cold medicine is eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
No, cold medicine is not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits in any state. The federal guidelines for SNAP benefits are consistent across all states, and they do not allow for the purchase of over-the-counter medications, including cold medicine.
Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy cold medicine with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you attempt to buy cold medicine with SNAP. However, the transaction will be declined at checkout, and you will need to use another form of payment for the cold medicine or remove it from your purchase.
Can I purchase a basket of groceries that includes cold medicine with my EBT card?
You can purchase the eligible food items in your basket with your EBT card, but the cold medicine will need to be paid for separately using another form of payment. The checkout system will automatically separate the ineligible item from the rest of your purchase.
What should I do if I'm unsure whether a cold medicine is SNAP-eligible?
If you're unsure whether a cold medicine is SNAP-eligible, check the label. Items with a "Supplement Facts" label are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. You can also ask a store assistant or refer to the USDA's guidelines for more information.
