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 steamed crab legs qualify as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Steamed Crab Legs with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy steamed crab legs with Food Stamps or EBT.
This is because SNAP benefits can only be used to purchase food items that are meant for home preparation and consumption. Steamed crab legs are considered a prepared or hot food item, which falls outside the eligible categories under SNAP guidelines. Therefore, they do not qualify for purchase with EBT or Food Stamps.
How to Check If Steamed 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, 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 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 steamed crab legs that cannot be purchased with these benefits, including:
Alcoholic Beverages: Beer, wine, and other alcoholic drinks are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
Vitamins and Supplements: Items with a "Supplement Facts" label, such as vitamins and dietary supplements, are not covered.
Hot Foods: Foods that are hot at the point of sale, like deli meals or hot sandwiches, are not eligible.
Non-Food Items: Household supplies, pet foods, and other non-food 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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Benny is a great option to manage your SNAP benefits. Our app allows you to check your EBT balance and transactions in real-time, helping you stay on top of your spending. Plus, you can earn cash back on groceries and other purchases at popular stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are Steamed Crab Legs Ever Eligible for Purchase with SNAP Benefits?
No, steamed crab legs are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. This is because they are considered a prepared or hot food item, which is not covered under SNAP guidelines.
Can You Buy a Basket of Groceries Containing Steamed Crab Legs with SNAP?
No, if your basket contains steamed crab legs, you will need to pay for them separately using another form of payment. SNAP benefits can only be used for eligible items, and the presence of ineligible items like steamed crab legs will require a separate transaction.
Will Your EBT Benefits Be Halted If You Try to Buy Steamed Crab Legs?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you attempt to buy steamed crab legs. However, the transaction will be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment or remove the item from your purchase.
Do SNAP Eligibility Rules for Steamed Crab Legs Vary by State?
No, the eligibility rules for steamed crab legs do not vary by state. Under federal SNAP guidelines, steamed crab legs are considered a prepared or hot food item and are therefore not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits in any state.
