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 non alcoholic beer qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Non Alcoholic Beer with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy non alcoholic beer with Food Stamps or EBT.
This is because SNAP benefits are intended for purchasing food items that provide nutritional value. Non alcoholic beer, despite its lack of alcohol, is classified as a beverage that does not meet the nutritional criteria set by the program. Therefore, it is not considered an eligible item under SNAP guidelines.
How to Check If Non Alcoholic Beer 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 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 non alcoholic beer that cannot be purchased with these benefits, including:
Alcoholic Beverages: Any drinks containing alcohol, such as beer, wine, and spirits, are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
Vitamins and Supplements: Items with a "Supplement Facts" label, including vitamins and dietary supplements, are not covered by SNAP.
Hot Foods: Prepared foods meant for immediate consumption, such as hot deli items or restaurant meals, are not eligible.
Non-Food Items: Household supplies, pet foods, and personal care products 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 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 or remove the item from your purchase. This ensures that SNAP benefits are used only for eligible food items.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does the SNAP eligibility of non alcoholic beer vary by state?
No, the SNAP eligibility of non alcoholic beer does not vary by state. The federal guidelines set by the USDA apply uniformly across all states, and non alcoholic beer is not considered an eligible item under these guidelines.
Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy non alcoholic beer with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you attempt to buy non alcoholic beer. However, the transaction will be declined at checkout, and you will need to use another form of payment or remove the item from your purchase.
Are baskets containing non alcoholic beer eligible for purchase with SNAP?
No, baskets containing non alcoholic beer are not eligible for purchase with SNAP. You will need to remove the non alcoholic beer from your basket or pay for it separately using another form of payment.
Why is non alcoholic beer not eligible for purchase with SNAP?
Non alcoholic beer is not eligible for purchase with SNAP because it does not meet the nutritional criteria set by the program. SNAP benefits are intended for food items that provide nutritional value, and non alcoholic beer is classified as a beverage that does not fulfill this requirement.
