Navigating the world of EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) and SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) can be confusing, especially when it comes to understanding which items are eligible for purchase. At FOODS.EDU.VN, we clarify which non-food items qualify for EBT benefits at Walmart, helping you maximize your resources. This guide provides valuable insights into surprising SNAP-eligible items, shopping strategies, and nutritional support, ensuring you make informed choices while shopping with EBT, food stamps, and SNAP benefits.
1. What are the General SNAP/EBT Eligible Items?
Generally, SNAP/EBT benefits are designed to help low-income individuals and families purchase essential food items to maintain a healthy diet. These benefits can be used to buy a variety of food products, ensuring access to nutritious meals.
- Fruits and Vegetables
- Meat, Poultry, and Fish
- Dairy Products like Cheese and Yogurt
- Bread and Cereals
- Snack Foods like Chips, Popcorn, and Crackers
- Non-Alcoholic Beverages (that are not hot when sold)
- Food-Producing Seeds and Plants
- Ground Coffee, Coffee Beans, or Pods
1.1 Can SNAP/EBT Benefits Be Used for Non-Food Items?
While SNAP benefits primarily target food purchases, there are limited exceptions where non-food items related to food preparation or production may be eligible.
2. Surprising SNAP/EBT Eligible Items You Can Buy
Beyond the typical grocery items, several surprising products can be purchased using SNAP/EBT. These often fall into categories that support cooking at home or growing your own food.
2.1 Can You Buy Take-and-Bake Pizza with SNAP/EBT?
Ready-made pizza is typically not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. However, you can buy take-and-bake pizzas from supermarkets or places like Papa Murphy’s with SNAP and cook them at home. Frozen pizzas are also SNAP-eligible. This is because the intent is to purchase ingredients rather than prepared meals.
2.2 Are Middle Eastern (Halal) Foods SNAP/EBT Eligible?
According to Julianna Lai, a policy and community content specialist at Propel, some Middle Eastern meat stores with attached restaurants sell cold food that can be cooked for free or a small fee. This complies with USDA guidelines, as the food is sold raw or uncooked and only cooked after payment.
2.3 Does SNAP/EBT Cover Restaurant Meals and Fast Food?
Some states participate in the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP), allowing eligible SNAP recipients to buy meals at restaurants with their SNAP benefits. Eligibility often requires all household members to be over 60, disabled, or unhoused. Some states also allow spouses of eligible SNAP recipients to participate.
2.4 Can You Use SNAP/EBT for Online Grocery Pickup or Delivery?
Yes, you can use your SNAP benefits for online grocery shopping through services like Instacart or directly from stores like ALDI. You can schedule a pickup or delivery, adding your EBT card as a payment option and selecting SNAP at checkout. Note that SNAP typically won’t cover delivery fees, which may require another payment method.
2.5 Are Military Commissary Items SNAP/EBT Eligible?
Military commissaries offer discounted food rates to eligible personnel, including active-duty and retired members, Medal of Honor recipients, veterans with disabilities, and authorized family members. SNAP recipients can shop at these commissaries without paying the surcharge and can even shop online using the CLICK2GO app, filtering for SNAP/EBT-eligible items.
2.6 Can You Buy Foods at Farmers Markets with SNAP/EBT?
Farmers markets are excellent places to shop for local fruits, vegetables, herbs, meats, and honey with your SNAP benefits. Any item that is EBT-eligible at a grocery store should also be eligible at farmers markets, supporting local agriculture and providing fresh produce.
Fresh produce at a farmers market accepting SNAP/EBT, promoting access to local and healthy food
2.7 Are Food-Producing Plants and Seeds SNAP/EBT Eligible?
You can use your EBT benefits to buy plants and seeds for growing your own food, including herbs. Home gardens ease food insecurity and boost physical activity, mental health, and intake of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, according to a study in the National Library of Medicine. Homegrown food can also be preserved and stored, creating stores of jam, salsa, dried herbs, and frozen ingredients.
2.8 Can You Buy Seasonings, Oils, Condiments, Herbs, and Spices with SNAP/EBT?
Yes, these items are SNAP-eligible, making cooking more enjoyable and adding flavor to your meals. Having these on hand can significantly improve the variety and taste of your home-cooked meals.
2.9 Is Hunting and Fishing Gear SNAP/EBT Eligible?
In Alaska, residents with limited grocery store access can apply for an ID card to buy hunting and fishing gear with SNAP benefits. This gear cannot be used for commercial purposes. Eligible items include nets, lines, hooks, fishing rods, harpoons, and knives.
2.10 Can You Buy Live Fish or Shellfish with SNAP/EBT?
Live fish, such as lobsters and other shellfish, can be purchased with SNAP benefits. However, live animals and birds (like live chickens) are not eligible.
2.11 Are Cakes SNAP/EBT Eligible?
Yes, you can buy a cake with your SNAP benefits for birthdays, anniversaries, or other special occasions. However, the value of any non-edible decorations cannot exceed 50% of the cake’s cost.
2.12 Can You Buy Food-Based Gift Baskets with SNAP/EBT?
Food-based gift baskets are eligible for SNAP/EBT if the value of the non-food items does not exceed 50% of the purchase price. These baskets often include non-food items but are still eligible for SNAP/EBT.
2.13 Are Pumpkins SNAP/EBT Eligible?
Edible pumpkins are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. However, inedible gourds and pumpkins used solely for ornamental purposes are not eligible items.
2.14 Can You Buy Energy Drinks with SNAP/EBT?
Whether energy drinks are SNAP-eligible depends on their label. Energy drinks with a nutrition facts label are eligible, while those with a supplement facts label are classified as supplements and are not eligible.
2.15 Are Cold Drinks SNAP/EBT Eligible?
Cold drinks, but not hot, are SNAP-eligible. This means you can buy iced coffee, fountain soda, and fruit smoothies with your EBT card.
2.16 Can You Buy Coffee, Tea, and Cocoa with SNAP/EBT?
Prepared hot beverages are not SNAP-eligible. However, you can buy ground coffee, whole beans, or pods, loose-leaf tea or teabags, and packets of hot cocoa powder. Iced coffee is also SNAP-eligible.
2.17 Is Bottled Water and Ice SNAP/EBT Eligible?
Yes, bottled water is a SNAP-eligible item. You can also buy bagged ice or block ice using your SNAP benefits.
2.18 Can You Buy Meal Replacement Shakes with SNAP/EBT?
Many meal-replacement shakes and protein powders are SNAP-eligible if they have a nutrition facts label. Products with a supplement facts label are not eligible.
2.19 Are Protein or Snack Bars SNAP/EBT Eligible?
Protein or snack bars count as food and are SNAP-eligible. Some protein powders are also EBT-eligible.
2.20 Can You Buy Infant Formula and Baby Food with SNAP/EBT?
If you have an infant or child in your household, you can use your SNAP benefits to buy necessary food items such as formula, cereals, juices, and baby food. You may also check your eligibility for WIC (Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children) benefits.
3. Non-Eligible Items with SNAP/EBT
Understanding what you can’t buy with SNAP is just as important as knowing what you can. Certain categories of items are universally excluded from SNAP eligibility.
3.1 What Items Are Not Eligible for Purchase with SNAP/EBT?
Several items are never SNAP-eligible, including alcohol, tobacco, vitamins, supplements, medications, and household non-food items like toilet paper and diapers. Dog and cat food are also not SNAP-eligible. Generally, if you can’t eat or drink it, it’s not SNAP-eligible.
- Alcohol
- Tobacco Products
- Vitamins and Supplements
- Medications
- Household Non-Food Items (e.g., Toilet Paper, Diapers)
- Pet Food
4. Optimizing Your SNAP/EBT Benefits
To make the most of your SNAP benefits, it’s essential to understand various strategies and resources available to you.
4.1 How Can You Stretch Your SNAP/EBT Benefits?
Research from 2017 indicates that SNAP benefits may not always be sufficient to support a healthy diet. Knowing all the possibilities of what you can buy is crucial. Healthy food incentive programs for SNAP recipients are available, especially at farmers markets. Programs like Double Up Food Bucks and Market Match provide a dollar-for-dollar match on produce purchases or offer 50% off fresh fruits and vegetables.
4.2 How Can I Find Local Support Programs?
Contacting local food banks, community centers, and social services can provide information on available resources and support programs in your area. These organizations often offer assistance with food, housing, and other essential needs.
4.3 Can You Use SNAP/EBT to Purchase Food Online?
Yes, many retailers now accept SNAP/EBT for online purchases, providing convenience and accessibility. Major retailers like Walmart, Amazon, and Kroger participate in the SNAP Online Purchasing Pilot, allowing recipients to use their benefits for online grocery shopping.
4.3.1 Retailers Accepting SNAP/EBT Online:
- Walmart
- Amazon
- Kroger
- ALDI (via Instacart)
4.4 What are the Benefits of Online SNAP/EBT Shopping?
Shopping online with SNAP/EBT offers numerous advantages, including:
- Convenience: Shop from home, saving time and transportation costs.
- Accessibility: Ideal for individuals with limited mobility or transportation options.
- Budgeting: Easily track your spending and stay within your budget.
- Reduced Exposure: Minimize exposure to crowded stores, especially during flu seasons or pandemics.
4.5 Tips for Maximizing Your SNAP/EBT Benefits:
- Plan Your Meals: Planning meals helps you create a grocery list and avoid impulse purchases.
- Check Weekly Ads: Review weekly ads to identify sales and discounts on SNAP-eligible items.
- Buy in Bulk: Purchase non-perishable items in bulk to save money in the long run.
- Use Coupons: Combine SNAP benefits with coupons for additional savings.
- Shop at Farmers Markets: Take advantage of local farmers markets to purchase fresh, local produce.
- Grow Your Own Food: Use SNAP benefits to buy seeds and plants and grow your own fruits and vegetables.
- Preserve Food: Learn how to preserve food through canning, freezing, or drying to extend its shelf life.
- Cook at Home: Cooking at home is typically more cost-effective than eating out.
- Join a Food Co-op: Food co-ops offer discounted prices on food items to their members.
- Utilize Food Banks: Food banks provide free food to individuals and families in need.
5. How SNAP/EBT Promotes Healthy Eating
SNAP/EBT is designed to not only alleviate food insecurity but also promote healthy eating habits among low-income individuals and families. By providing access to nutritious food, SNAP helps improve overall health outcomes and reduces healthcare costs.
5.1 Impact on Food Security
SNAP has a significant impact on reducing food insecurity in the United States. Studies have shown that SNAP benefits help families afford a more nutritious diet and decrease the likelihood of experiencing hunger.
5.2 SNAP and Nutritional Health
SNAP plays a vital role in improving the nutritional health of recipients. Access to a variety of food items, including fruits, vegetables, and dairy products, ensures that individuals receive essential vitamins and minerals.
5.3 Encouraging Healthy Choices
SNAP encourages healthy choices by providing incentives for purchasing nutritious foods. Programs like the Healthy Incentives Program (HIP) reward SNAP recipients for buying fruits and vegetables, promoting healthier eating habits.
6. Common Misconceptions About SNAP/EBT
Several misconceptions surround SNAP/EBT, leading to confusion and misinformation. Clarifying these misconceptions is essential to ensure that individuals understand the program’s purpose and benefits.
6.1 “SNAP/EBT is Only for Unemployed People”
SNAP is available to low-income individuals and families, regardless of their employment status. Many SNAP recipients are employed but still struggle to afford adequate food.
6.2 “SNAP/EBT Recipients Don’t Need to Work”
Most SNAP recipients are employed, seeking employment, or unable to work due to age or disability. SNAP provides temporary assistance to supplement their income.
6.3 “SNAP/EBT Benefits are Too Generous”
SNAP benefits are designed to provide a modest amount of assistance to help individuals and families afford nutritious food. The average SNAP benefit is relatively low and often insufficient to cover all food expenses.
6.4 “SNAP/EBT Fraud is Rampant”
The rate of SNAP fraud is relatively low. The USDA has implemented measures to prevent and detect fraud, ensuring that benefits are used appropriately.
6.5 “SNAP/EBT Recipients Only Buy Junk Food”
SNAP recipients purchase a variety of food items, including fruits, vegetables, and other healthy foods. While some recipients may buy less nutritious foods, this is not representative of all SNAP participants.
7. EBT Cards at Walmart: A Comprehensive Guide
Walmart is a popular shopping destination for many SNAP recipients due to its wide selection of food items and affordable prices. Understanding how to use your EBT card at Walmart can help you make the most of your benefits.
7.1 How to Use Your EBT Card at Walmart
Using your EBT card at Walmart is similar to using a debit card. Simply swipe your card at the checkout terminal and enter your PIN. The amount of your purchase will be deducted from your SNAP balance.
7.2 SNAP-Eligible Items at Walmart
Walmart offers a wide range of SNAP-eligible items, including:
- Fresh Produce
- Meat and Poultry
- Dairy Products
- Bread and Grains
- Canned Goods
- Frozen Foods
7.3 Non-SNAP-Eligible Items at Walmart
It’s important to remember that certain items are not SNAP-eligible at Walmart, including:
- Alcohol
- Tobacco Products
- Household Supplies
- Pet Food
- Vitamins and Supplements
7.4 Walmart’s Online EBT Payment Option
Walmart participates in the SNAP Online Purchasing Pilot, allowing you to use your EBT card for online grocery orders. Simply add your EBT card to your Walmart account and select SNAP as your payment method at checkout.
7.5 Tips for Shopping at Walmart with SNAP/EBT
- Check Your EBT Balance: Before shopping, check your EBT balance to ensure you have sufficient funds.
- Make a List: Create a grocery list to avoid impulse purchases.
- Compare Prices: Compare prices to find the best deals on SNAP-eligible items.
- Use Coupons: Use coupons to save even more money on your purchases.
- Shop During Off-Peak Hours: Shopping during off-peak hours can help you avoid crowds and reduce stress.
8. The Role of Technology in SNAP/EBT Management
Technology plays an increasingly important role in managing SNAP/EBT benefits. Mobile apps and online resources provide recipients with convenient tools for checking balances, finding nearby retailers, and accessing healthy recipes.
8.1 Mobile Apps for SNAP/EBT Management
Several mobile apps are available to help SNAP recipients manage their benefits, including:
- Fresh EBT: Allows you to check your SNAP balance and find nearby retailers.
- SNAP Benefit Calculator: Helps you estimate your SNAP eligibility and potential benefit amount.
- USDA Food and Nutrition Service App: Provides information on SNAP and other food assistance programs.
8.2 Online Resources for SNAP/EBT Recipients
Numerous online resources offer valuable information and support to SNAP recipients, including:
- USDA Food and Nutrition Service Website: Provides comprehensive information on SNAP and other food assistance programs.
- Food Research and Action Center (FRAC): Advocates for policies to reduce hunger and improve nutrition.
- Feeding America: A national network of food banks providing food assistance to individuals and families in need.
9. Overcoming Challenges with SNAP/EBT
Despite its benefits, SNAP/EBT recipients may face several challenges, including stigma, limited access to healthy food, and insufficient benefit amounts. Addressing these challenges requires comprehensive solutions and support.
9.1 Reducing Stigma
Stigma can be a significant barrier for SNAP recipients. Reducing stigma requires education and awareness to promote understanding and empathy.
9.2 Increasing Access to Healthy Food
Limited access to healthy food, particularly in low-income communities, is a major challenge. Expanding access to farmers markets, community gardens, and mobile grocery stores can help improve access to nutritious food.
9.3 Advocating for Increased Benefit Amounts
SNAP benefit amounts are often insufficient to meet the nutritional needs of recipients. Advocating for increased benefit amounts and adjustments to the Thrifty Food Plan can help ensure that individuals have access to adequate food.
10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Non-Food EBT Eligible Items at Walmart
10.1 Can I Buy Diapers with EBT at Walmart?
No, diapers are not eligible for purchase with EBT at Walmart or any other retailer, as they are classified as non-food household items.
10.2 Can I Buy Pet Food with EBT at Walmart?
No, pet food is not an EBT-eligible item. EBT benefits are strictly for human consumption.
10.3 Are Cleaning Supplies EBT Eligible at Walmart?
No, cleaning supplies are not eligible for purchase with EBT as they are non-food household items.
10.4 Can I Purchase Toiletries with EBT at Walmart?
No, toiletries such as shampoo, soap, and toothpaste are not EBT-eligible.
10.5 Are Paper Towels and Toilet Paper EBT Eligible at Walmart?
No, paper towels and toilet paper are not EBT-eligible as they are considered household items.
10.6 Can I Buy Vitamins or Supplements with EBT at Walmart?
No, vitamins and supplements are not EBT-eligible items.
10.7 Are Prepared Hot Foods EBT Eligible at Walmart?
No, prepared hot foods intended for immediate consumption are not EBT-eligible.
10.8 Can I Buy Alcohol or Tobacco with EBT at Walmart?
No, alcohol and tobacco products are strictly prohibited from purchase with EBT benefits.
10.9 Are Gardening Supplies EBT Eligible at Walmart?
Yes, seeds and plants that produce food are EBT-eligible. However, tools and other gardening supplies are not.
10.10 Can I Buy Ice with EBT at Walmart?
Yes, ice is considered an EBT-eligible item as it is used to preserve food.
Understanding the nuances of SNAP/EBT eligibility can empower you to make informed choices and maximize your benefits. At FOODS.EDU.VN, we are committed to providing you with clear, accurate, and actionable information to navigate the world of food assistance with confidence. Explore our site for more in-depth guides, recipes, and resources to help you and your family thrive. For further assistance, visit us at 1946 Campus Dr, Hyde Park, NY 12538, United States, contact us via WhatsApp at +1 845-452-9600, or explore our website at FOODS.EDU.VN. Let foods.edu.vn be your trusted partner in achieving food security and nutritional well-being.
