11 Surprising Things You Can Buy From Amazon With SNAP EBT

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This information is current as of June 14, 2022.

As a SNAP recipient, you know what you can purchase with Food Stamps. But what about items like coffee makers, toys, or gift baskets? Have you ever wondered if you could buy presents for family and friends on Amazon using your EBT card? This article looks closely at what you can get besides the typical essential food items.

*Surprising Things You Can Buy From Amazon With SNAP EBT*

From gift baskets to fancy coffee pods, various unexpected items are EBT-eligible. Read on to learn more about the SNAP program and check out these surprising things you can buy from Amazon with your EBT card.

What Is SNAP?

Before diving into unexpected items available for purchase with SNAP EBT, those new to SNAP or considering applying for SNAP, you may be wondering about the program.

Millions of Americans need assistance with purchasing food at some point in their lives. While many individuals are fortunate enough to have robust support systems to help provide meals, others don’t have that luxury. The pandemic has made it even worse.

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, known as SNAP, is beneficial and comes in handy for those who need it. This federal program (once known as Food Stamps) helps feed low-income Americans who otherwise may not have the means to put food on the table.

A SNAP Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card helps people buy nutritious food at EBT-participating stores. The program ensures that no one goes hungry – children can grow into adults and that seniors can afford to eat as healthily as working adults.

What Food Is Eligible With the SNAP EBT Card?

The USDA states “any food for the household” as eligible, but that leaves many unsure of miscellaneous-type food, such as restaurant orders, alcohol, and vitamins. Food for the household is covered with SNAP benefits and includes:

Produce like fruits and vegetables (in any form, such as canned, fresh, etc.)
Dairy products
Meat, fish, and poultry
Plants and seeds that produce food
Cereals

Acceptable food is considered “Staple Food,” and the USDA has extensive guidelines of items that your EBT card will support. Click here to read the SNAP overview on Staple Food.

Ineligible Food You Can’t Buy With SNAP EBT Card

The USDA clearly defines what can and can’t be purchased with SNAP EBT cards. The following are ineligible food and products.

Alcoholic products including liquor, wine, beer
Tobacco products
Medicine
Dietary supplements and any product with a Supplement Facts label
Live animals, except for fish and shellfish available at grocery stores
Products such as household and hygiene supplies, makeup, and pet food are not meant to be eaten.

There are some gray areas, though, and these may vary from city to city. Hot readymade food from restaurants is one example in some towns. Still, not all allow some disabled and/or elderly people to use food assistance for these purchases.

The guidelines depend upon your location, so it’s a good idea to make sure your purchase is eligible for EBT before completing your transaction.