FoodShare, Wisconsin’s version of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), helps individuals and families afford groceries. Administered through an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) system using the Wisconsin QUEST card, FoodShare benefits can be used at authorized retailers like grocery stores and farmers’ markets. Understanding what you can and can’t buy with your FoodShare benefits is crucial. This article focuses on whether nutritional drinks like Ensure are eligible for purchase using food stamps.
FoodShare benefits are deposited into your account monthly, allowing you to purchase essential food items. Here’s a breakdown of what is typically covered:
- Breads and cereals
- Fruits and vegetables
- Meats, fish, and poultry
- Dairy products
- Snack foods
- Non-alcoholic beverages
- Seeds and plants to grow food for your family
However, certain items are not eligible for purchase with FoodShare benefits. These include:
- Alcoholic beverages (beer, wine, liquor)
- Cigarettes or tobacco products
- Vitamins, medicines, or supplements
- Live animals (with exceptions for shellfish, fish removed from water, and animals slaughtered before pick-up)
- Hot, prepared foods (food cooked and served hot at the store)
- Food intended to be eaten in the store
- Non-food items such as pet food, cleaning supplies, hygiene products.
Is Ensure Considered an Eligible Food Item?
The key question is whether Ensure falls under the category of eligible food items or is considered a supplement, similar to vitamins or medicine, which are not covered by FoodShare.
Generally, meal replacement drinks like Ensure can be purchased with food stamps if they are labeled as food and intended for nutritional use rather than as a medicine or supplement. Ensure typically contains a mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fats and is marketed as a nutritional drink. Therefore, it can generally be purchased with SNAP benefits.
However, it’s important to note that eligibility can vary based on state regulations and how the product is classified.
How to Determine if You Can Buy Ensure with Food Stamps
- Check the Label: Look for language that identifies the product as a food item, such as “nutritional shake” or “meal replacement.”
- Verify with Your Local SNAP Office: If you are unsure, contact your local SNAP office or visit their website for clarification on specific product eligibility.
- Check with the Store: Some stores may have specific policies on which items can be purchased with EBT cards.
Understanding Your FoodShare Benefit Schedule
Your FoodShare benefits are typically available based on the eighth digit of your Social Security number. Here’s the schedule:
| 8th digit of your Social Security number: | When you get benefits |
|---|---|
| 0 | 2nd day of the month |
| 1 | 3rd day of the month |
| 2 | 5th day of the month |
| 3 | 6th day of the month |
| 4 | 8th day of the month |
| 5 | 9th day of the month |
| 6 | 11th day of the month |
| 7 | 12th day of the month |
| 8 | 14th day of the month |
| 9 | 15th day of the month |
For instance, if your Social Security number is 123-45-6789, the 8th digit is 8, meaning your benefits are available on the 14th of each month.
Conclusion
While Ensure generally falls under the category of food items eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits, it’s essential to verify the specific product’s eligibility with your local SNAP office and retailer. Being informed ensures you can maximize your FoodShare benefits to meet your nutritional needs. Always prioritize checking product labels and consulting local resources for the most accurate information.
If you are not yet enrolled in FoodShare, you can apply for FoodShare online.
