If you’ve recently enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly known as food stamps, you might wonder, “What am I allowed to buy with these benefits?”
Understanding the ins and outs of eligible purchases can help you maximize your SNAP benefits while keeping your household fed. This guide will outline what you can and can’t buy with food stamps, clarify some common misconceptions, and offer tips for maximizing your food budget.
Any food for the household, such as:
- Fruits and vegetables;
- Meat, poultry, and fish;
- Dairy products;
- Breads and cereals;
- Other foods, such as snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages, and
- Seeds and plants which produce food for the household to eat.
What is SNAP, and How Does it Work?
SNAP is a federal program that helps low-income families and individuals purchase food. Benefits are loaded onto an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, which looks like a typical debit card. You can use this card at authorized retailers, grocery stores, supermarkets, and farmers’ markets.
Your SNAP benefits are calculated based on your household size, income, and certain expenses, and the funds are replenished monthly for you to spend on qualifying food items.
What Can You Buy With Food Stamps?
SNAP benefits are specifically allocated to purchase food items that meet basic household nutritional needs. Here’s a breakdown of the items you’re allowed to buy:
1. Fruits and Vegetables
Healthy eating starts here. You can use SNAP benefits to buy fresh, canned, or frozen fruits and vegetables. These are eligible purchases: apples and carrots from the produce aisle or canned green beans and peaches.
Tip: Look for farmers’ markets that accept EBT. Some even offer incentives like “Double Up Food Bucks,” giving you extra produce for the exact cost.
2. Meat, Poultry, and Fish
SNAP covers fresh or frozen meats, poultry, and fish. You can also purchase meats with bones or cuts that are often less expensive. To stretch your funds further, look for weekly specials.
Example Products You Can Buy:
- Ground beef or turkey
- Fresh salmon or tilapia
- Chicken thighs, breasts, or drumsticks
3. Dairy Products
Milk, cheese, yogurt, and other dairy items are SNAP-eligible. Whether you prefer whole milk or almond milk alternatives, you can include these in your grocery list.
Pro Tip: Many grocers offer private-label (store-brand) dairy products. These often cost less and deliver the same quality as national brands.
4. Bread and Cereals
SNAP covers staples like bread, tortillas, rice, and breakfast cereals. For better nutrition, choose whole-grain options where possible.
5. Snacks
Yes, snacks are included! Bagged popcorn, granola bars, and crackers are all SNAP-eligible. While it’s crucial to prioritize essentials, treating yourself occasionally is okay.
6. Beverages
Most non-alcoholic beverages, including bottled water, coffee, tea, and juices, qualify under SNAP. However, energy drinks with nutritional labels (like Gatorade) are covered, while those labeled as supplements (think Red Bull) are not.
7. Seeds and Plants
One surprising benefit of SNAP is that you can purchase seeds and plants to grow your food! Consider starting a small vegetable garden as a cost-effective way to supplement your diet.
8. Frozen Foods
Frozen fruits, vegetables, dinners, and snacks are eligible under SNAP. Stocking up on frozen options can help you preserve meals for longer, ensuring nothing goes to waste.
9. Packaged and Canned Goods
Canned soups, pasta sauces, and ready-to-eat packaged meals are all SNAP-eligible. Canned goods are a great way to keep your pantry stocked and ready for quick meal prep.
Items You Can’t Buy with Food Stamps
While SNAP covers a broad range of food items, not all products in the grocery store are eligible. Here’s what you buy using food stamps:
1. Hot Foods and Prepared Meals
Items like rotisserie chicken, buffet meals, or deli sandwiches typically don’t qualify. However, there may be exceptions during emergencies or disasters where hot food purchases are temporarily allowed.
2. Non-Food Items
You can’t use SNAP benefits for household supplies like:
- Cleaning products
- Paper goods (toilet paper, diapers, etc.)
- Toothpaste or soap
For non-food essentials, consider exploring local assistance programs or low-cost retailers.
3. Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco
Alcohol, cigarettes, cigars, and related items are strictly prohibited under SNAP guidelines.
4. Vitamins, Supplements, and Medicines
Multivitamins, protein powders, and other supplements with a “Supplement Facts” label are not eligible under SNAP. However, certain nutritional products for medical use may qualify under different programs like WIC.
5. Pet Foods
While you may care deeply about your pets, SNAP benefits are for human consumption and cannot be used to buy pet food.
Common Misconceptions About Food Stamps
“Can I buy junk food with SNAP?”
Surprisingly, yes. While it’s encouraged to spend benefits on nutritious meals, items like chips, soda, and candy are allowed. However, making healthy choices can help stretch your benefits and improve your family’s overall well-being.
“Can I shop online using SNAP?”
Increasingly, yes! Big retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and certain regional chains now accept EBT payments online. Be aware of delivery or service fees, as SNAP does not cover these.
“Can I use EBT at convenience stores?”
Yes, as long as the store is an authorized SNAP retailer. However, these locations often have limited healthy options, so use them sparingly.
Tips for Stretching Your SNAP Benefits
Plan Your Meals: A weekly meal plan can help you stick to your budget and avoid impulse buys.
Buy in Bulk: Purchase larger quantities of staples like rice, beans, and pasta to save costs in the long run.
Use Coupons: Combine SNAP benefits with manufacturer or store coupons for additional savings.
Shop Sales: Pay attention to weekly grocery store ads to find discounts on items you typically buy.
Take Advantage of Community Resources: Food pantries and SNAP-Ed classes can provide additional support and education.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is SNAP?
SNAP, or the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, is a federal program that provides financial assistance to help low-income individuals and families purchase nutritious food.
How do I apply for SNAP benefits?
You can apply for SNAP through your local or state human services office. Many states offer online applications to make the process easier and more accessible.
What are the income eligibility requirements for SNAP?
Eligibility requirements vary by state, but generally, they consider household size, income, and expenses. It’s best to check with your local SNAP office for specific guidelines.
How long will it take to receive my SNAP benefits once approved?
Processing times can vary by state, but typically, it takes about 30 days to receive benefits once your application is approved. In some cases, expedited benefits may be available if you qualify.
Can my SNAP benefits be used in any state?
Yes, SNAP benefits can be used at any authorized retailer across the United States. If you move to a different state, you must inform your local SNAP office to transfer your benefits.
How often do I need to recertify for SNAP?
Recertification is generally required every 6-12 months, though this can depend on your state’s specific requirements. Watch for notifications from your local office to maintain your benefits.
What happens if my SNAP application is denied?
If your SNAP application is denied, you can appeal the decision. Contact your local SNAP office to understand the reason for the denial and get information on how to file an appeal.
Final Thoughts
SNAP is designed to provide nutrition and security to needy individuals and families. You can make the most of this program by understanding what you can and can’t buy with food stamps and learning strategies to stretch your benefits.
Local SNAP offices and community groups are excellent resources if you still need to figure out how to maximize your benefits or where to shop with EBT.
Every meal is an opportunity for nourishment; with SNAP, millions can access nutritious food.our benefits or where to shop with EBT.
Every meal is an opportunity for nourishment, and with SNAP, millions can have access to nutritious food.
