Apr 24, 2025
Understanding what can and cannot be bought with SNAP, previously known as Food Stamps, helps recipients use their benefits wisely. Many wonder if pumpkins qualify as an approved purchase.
Can I Buy Pumpkins with Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy pumpkins with Food Stamps or SNAP.
Pumpkins are considered an edible food item, which makes them eligible for purchase under SNAP guidelines. As long as the pumpkin is intended for consumption and not solely for decoration, it qualifies as an approved purchase. This means you can use your benefits to buy pumpkins for cooking or baking purposes.
How to Check If Pumpkins is SNAP-Eligible
To check if pumpkins are SNAP-eligible, look for "EBT/SNAP eligible" shelf tags in stores or icons on retailer websites. Most major grocers label qualifying foods, making it easier to identify eligible items.
Additionally, compare the product to USDA rules by visiting the official resource. If still unsure, ask the cashier or call your state SNAP hotline before making a purchase.
What Can I Buy with SNAP?
Besides pumpkins, you might be surprised to know that SNAP benefits cover many of these items:
Plants: Vegetable seeds, fruit plants, and starters used to grow food at home.
Farmers’ Markets: Eligible at many markets, often via tokens or electronic payments.
Energy Drinks: Eligible if labeled with a "Nutrition Facts" panel (not "Supplement Facts").
Bakery Items and Birthday Cakes: Decorated birthday cakes and baked goods.
Seafood and Fresh Meat: Fresh, frozen, or canned seafood and meats.
What Can I Not Buy with SNAP?
While SNAP benefits cover a wide range of essential food items, there are products that cannot be purchased with these benefits, including:
Alcohol and Tobacco: These items are strictly prohibited under SNAP guidelines.
Non-Food Items: Household supplies, pet foods, and hygiene products are not eligible.
Hot Foods: Foods that are hot at the point of sale, such as deli meals, are excluded.
Vitamins and Supplements: Items labeled with "Supplement Facts" are not covered.
What Happens If I Try to Buy an Ineligible Item with EBT?
If you try to buy an ineligible item with SNAP, the transaction will be declined at checkout. The cashier or the point-of-sale system will notify you that the item cannot be purchased with your EBT card. You will need to use another form of payment for the ineligible item or remove it from your purchase altogether.
Manage Your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Managing your SNAP benefits is easier with Benny. Our app allows you to check your EBT balance and transactions instantly, helping you stay on top of your benefits.
Additionally, Benny lets you earn cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. Learn more about Benny and start managing your SNAP benefits more effectively today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are all types of pumpkins eligible for purchase with SNAP?
Yes, all types of pumpkins are eligible for purchase with SNAP as long as they are intended for consumption. Decorative pumpkins that are not meant to be eaten do not qualify.
2. Can I buy pumpkin seeds with SNAP benefits?
Yes, you can buy pumpkin seeds with SNAP benefits if they are intended for planting and growing food. Edible pumpkin seeds are also eligible if they are meant for consumption.
3. Do SNAP eligibility rules for pumpkins vary by state?
No, SNAP eligibility rules for pumpkins do not vary by state. The USDA sets the guidelines, and pumpkins intended for consumption are eligible nationwide.
4. Can I use SNAP benefits to buy pumpkin-based products like pumpkin pie or pumpkin puree?
Yes, you can use SNAP benefits to buy pumpkin-based products like pumpkin pie or pumpkin puree, as long as they are intended for consumption and not hot at the point of sale.
