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 household items qualify as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Household Items with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy household items with Food Stamps or EBT.
This is because SNAP benefits are specifically designed to help low-income individuals and families purchase food and beverages. The program aims to ensure that recipients have access to nutritious meals, which is why non-food items, including household supplies, are not covered. This restriction helps maintain the program's focus on addressing food insecurity.
How to Check If Household Items 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 covered by SNAP. 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 item 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 household items 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 dietary supplements, are not eligible for purchase.
Pet Foods: Food intended for pets is not covered by SNAP benefits, as the program is designed to support human nutrition.
Hot Prepared Foods: Foods that are hot at the point of sale, like rotisserie chickens or hot deli items, are not eligible for purchase 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 to complete the purchase for that item. This ensures that SNAP benefits are used only for eligible food items.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any states where household items are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
No, household items are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits in any state. The federal guidelines for SNAP are consistent across all states, and they specifically exclude non-food items, including household supplies, from being purchased with EBT cards.
Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy household items with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you attempt to buy household items with SNAP. However, the transaction will be declined at checkout, and you will need to use another form of payment to complete the purchase for those items.
Can I purchase a basket of items that includes household items with SNAP benefits?
No, if your basket contains household items, you will need to separate those items from your SNAP-eligible food items. Only the food items can be purchased with SNAP benefits, while the household items must be paid for using another form of payment.
What should I do if I'm unsure whether a household item is SNAP-eligible?
If you're unsure whether a household item is SNAP-eligible, check the label. Items with a "Nutrition Facts" label are generally eligible, while those with a "Supplement Facts" label are not. You can also ask a store assistant or refer to the USDA's guidelines for more information.
