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You have just received the wonderful news that you have been approved for a certain amount of money for food stamps or the SNAP program. You have got your EBT card and it is all loaded up and ready to go. However, you forgot to ask about what can and cannot be purchased with the money reserved for food. Could you buy a huge prime rib? What about wine and cigarettes? What is considered acceptable for food stamps and what isn’t?
Here is a look at what can and cannot be purchased with the EBT card and the funds reserved for the SNAP program.
Items that can be purchased. The items that can be purchased are pretty wide open as long as it is not listed in the cannot be purchased section you can purchase the item. This includes meats of all kinds, frozen food, canned goods, milk, cheese, vegetables, fruits and beverages. Pretty much if the store sells it you can purchase it. Even if you wanted to pick up some junk food like chips, gum and candy it will be included.
Alcohol. You cannot purchase alcoholic beverages of any kind using the EBT card and the funds reserved for food stamps.
Cigarettes. Tobacco and cigarette products are not included in the EBT card and the funds.
Other Goods. You cannot use the money on the EBT card for anything that is not food related. This includes paper products, bathroom items, household items, plates, napkins and pet food. All of these items must be purchased out of pocket and are actually rung up separately when you purchase these items with the EBT card.
Prepared Foods. Some stores might have little cafes or prepared food sections. These are not included in the EBT program. However, some state’s do have prepared food programs that can be included such as the program known as the meals on wheels program.
