If you’re new to using EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) cards, also known as food stamps, it’s important to understand what you can and can’t buy with them. EBT cards help people with low incomes purchase food. But, there are some definite rules about what qualifies as a “food” item. Let’s break down what you need to know to avoid any problems at the checkout.
Non-Food Items and EBT
One of the biggest things to remember is that EBT cards are for food, not for anything else. You can’t use your EBT card to buy things like paper towels, diapers, or cleaning supplies. These items are considered household goods, not food. Think of it this way: the goal is to help you get groceries, not other necessities.
Alcoholic Beverages and EBT
Alcohol is off-limits. That includes beer, wine, and liquor. This restriction is pretty straightforward. The EBT program is designed to support your ability to get healthy, nutritious meals. Alcoholic beverages don’t fit into that goal, which is why they’re not covered by EBT funds.
It’s important to understand that this applies even if you’re buying it for a special occasion. Even if you are of age, your EBT funds cannot be used. This is a federal rule, so it applies across the entire country.
Here’s a quick summary:
- Beer
- Wine
- Liquor
These cannot be purchased with an EBT card.
Tobacco Products and EBT
Just like alcohol, tobacco products are not eligible. This covers cigarettes, chewing tobacco, and any other tobacco-related items. It is important to note that many stores will not allow tobacco products to be purchased with an EBT card. This includes most gas stations and grocery stores.
This rule is in place because, similar to alcohol, tobacco isn’t considered a food item and it doesn’t align with the program’s goal of supporting healthy eating. The government is trying to encourage healthier choices.
Here’s a list of tobacco products that can’t be bought with EBT:
- Cigarettes
- Cigars
- Smokeless tobacco
Remember, even if a store sells food and tobacco, you can’t use your EBT card for the tobacco purchase.
Vitamins, Medicines, and Supplements and EBT
Over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements generally aren’t covered. This rule can sometimes be confusing because these items are often found in the food aisles. EBT is meant for groceries, not medicine.
This means items like cold medicine, pain relievers, and vitamins are typically not eligible. However, there are some exceptions with special medical foods and sometimes, if you have a prescription, you can use your EBT card.
Here’s a table that gives you an idea:
| Item | EBT Eligibility |
|---|---|
| Aspirin | No |
| Vitamins | No |
| Prescription medication | Usually No |
| Protein shakes | Sometimes |
Always check with the store or the EBT program if you’re unsure.
Hot Foods and Prepared Meals and EBT
Generally, you can’t buy hot prepared foods with your EBT card. This means that food that’s ready to eat and prepared by the store or restaurant is typically not covered. You’ll be able to buy the ingredients to make the food, but not the prepared meal.
This is true even if the food is sold in the grocery store. For instance, you can’t buy a rotisserie chicken or a hot deli sandwich. However, there are some exceptions in some states, or if you are using SNAP to purchase restaurant meals.
Here’s what you typically can’t buy:
- Hot pizza
- Deli counter meals
- Ready-to-eat sandwiches
This rule is designed to support healthy eating and home cooking, as well as preventing abuse of the program.
Pet Food and EBT
While you may consider your pets part of the family, pet food is not eligible. Your EBT card is only for food for humans, not for animals. This is a strict rule, and it’s important to follow.
The EBT program is focused on providing food assistance to people, not to pets. If you have pets, you’ll need to use other resources to get their food.
So, what can’t you buy for your furry friends?
- Dog food
- Cat food
- Birdseed
- Other pet supplies
Always remember that it is for the humans, not the animals.
Non-Food Household Items and EBT
As previously mentioned, your EBT card is only for food. This means any non-food household items aren’t covered. This also includes things like cleaning supplies, laundry detergent, and other household essentials. While these items are necessary, they don’t fall under the EBT definition of “food.”
Stores will often separate food and non-food items, to help you keep track of what you can and cannot buy. The goal is to make sure that EBT benefits are used specifically for the intended purpose: providing food for the household.
Here are some examples of household items you cannot purchase with EBT:
- Paper towels
- Soap
- Detergent
- Toilet paper
If you are unsure, always check with the store.
Conclusion
Understanding the rules of what you can and can’t buy with your EBT card is crucial to avoid any issues. Remember, EBT is mainly for buying groceries. Be sure to check the item before you try to pay with your EBT card, and always be respectful of the store’s policies. Knowing these guidelines will help you make the most of your benefits and ensure a smooth shopping experience!