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 crab legs qualify as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Crab Legs with EBT/ Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy crab legs with EBT or Food Stamps.
Crab legs are considered a food item, which makes them eligible for purchase under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The program allows recipients to buy most grocery items, including seafood, as long as they are not hot or prepared foods meant for immediate consumption.
How to Check If Crab Legs 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, items that are hot, prepared, and 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 deli sandwich: 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 crab legs, 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.
Farmers’ Markets: Eligible at many markets, often via tokens or electronic payments.
Energy Drinks: Eligible if labeled with a "Nutrition Facts" panel (not "Supplement Facts").
Bakery Items and Birthday Cakes: Decorated birthday cakes and baked goods.
Seafood and Fresh Meat: Fresh, frozen, or canned seafood and meats.
Snack Foods: Chips, ice cream, candy, and other snacks.
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 for that specific item. The cashier or the self-checkout system will notify you that the item is not covered by SNAP benefits. You will need to pay for the ineligible item using another form of payment, such as cash or a credit card, to complete your purchase.
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 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 restrictions on the type of crab legs you can buy with EBT?
Yes, there are restrictions. You can only buy crab legs that are not hot or prepared for immediate consumption. Frozen, fresh, or canned crab legs are eligible, but those sold hot or ready-to-eat from a deli counter are not.
Can you buy crab legs from a seafood market with EBT?
Yes, you can buy crab legs from a seafood market with EBT as long as they are not hot or prepared for immediate consumption. The same rules apply as in grocery stores, meaning the crab legs must be intended for home preparation and consumption.
Are there any state-specific rules for buying crab legs with EBT?
No, the eligibility of crab legs for purchase with EBT is governed by federal SNAP guidelines, which apply uniformly across all states. As long as the crab legs are not hot or prepared for immediate consumption, they are eligible for purchase with EBT.
Can you buy crab legs online with EBT?
Yes, you can buy crab legs online with EBT from retailers that accept EBT payments for online orders. Websites like Amazon and Walmart allow you to filter for SNAP-eligible items, including crab legs, making it easier to shop within the program's guidelines.
