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9What You Can and Cannot Buy With EBT
Understanding what can you buy with EBT matters because prohibited purchases can lead to transaction denials at checkout. SNAP benefits cover food and beverages intended for home consumption.
Eligible purchases
- Fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, dairy, bread, and cereals
- Seeds and plants that produce food for the household
- Snack foods, soft drinks, candy, and bakery items
- Groceries ordered online through approved SNAP Online Purchasing retailers (available in all 50 states and D.C. via Amazon, Walmart, and other retailers through Instacart)
Not eligible
- Alcohol and tobacco products
- Vitamins, supplements, and medicines
- Hot prepared foods or foods meant to be eaten in-store
- Non-food household items (cleaning supplies, paper products, pet food)
- Gift cards or cash-back transactions
The USDA maintains the final authority on eligible items. If a specific product is unclear, ask the retailer or contact the SNAP hotline at 1-800-221-5689.
10SNAP for Seniors and People With Disabilities
Seniors (age 60+) and individuals with disabilities receive several advantages under SNAP rules:
- No shelter deduction cap: Unlike other households (capped at $744/month), elderly and disabled households can deduct their full excess shelter costs.
- Medical expense deduction: Out-of-pocket medical costs exceeding $35/month — including prescriptions, co-pays, medical equipment, and transportation to medical appointments — are deductible. This deduction is only available to elderly and disabled members.
- Higher asset limit: The federal asset limit is $4,500, compared to $3,000 for other households — though many states have waived the asset test entirely through BBCE.
- Longer certification periods: All-elderly or all-disabled households may be certified for up to 36 months before SNAP recertification is required, compared to the typical 6–12 months for other households.
- Exemption from ABAWD rules: Individuals receiving disability benefits are not subject to the work requirements described above.
Seniors living alone who have limited income often qualify for the minimum benefit of $24/month even if their net income slightly reduces the calculated amount.
11Recertification and Renewal
SNAP recertification is required periodically to confirm you still meet eligibility criteria. Most households must recertify every 6 to 12 months. Households where all members are elderly or disabled may receive certification periods of up to 36 months.
What happens at recertification
- Your state sends a renewal notice before your certification period expires.
- You complete an updated application form reporting any changes in income, household size, or expenses.
- An interview (phone or in-person) may be required.
- Failure to complete recertification on time results in benefit termination. You can reapply, but there may be a gap in benefits.
12Frequently Asked Questions About SNAP
What are the SNAP income limits for 2026 by household size?
Gross income (before deductions) must be at or below 130% of the Federal Poverty Level: $1,696/month for one person, $2,292 for two, $2,888 for three, $3,483 for four, plus $596 for each additional member. Net income (after deductions) must be at or below 100% of FPL: $1,305 for one person, $1,763 for two, $2,221 for three, $2,680 for four, plus $459 per additional member.
How do I apply for SNAP / food stamps in my state?
Start by visiting your state’s human services website or calling the SNAP hotline at 1-800-221-5689. Applications are free and can be submitted online, in person, by mail, or by fax depending on your state. Processing takes up to 30 days, or 7 days for expedited cases.
How much will I receive in SNAP benefits each month?
Your benefit equals your household’s maximum allotment minus 30% of your net monthly income. A single person with zero net income would receive up to $298/month. The minimum benefit for one- and two-person households is $24/month.
Do I qualify for SNAP if I own a car or a home?
Your primary home is not counted. More than 40 states have eliminated the asset test through Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility (BBCE), so vehicles and savings may not affect your eligibility. In states that still apply the asset test, the limit is $3,000 (or $4,500 for households with an elderly or disabled member).
What are the SNAP work requirements for able-bodied adults?
ABAWDs ages 18–64 must complete 80 hours per month of work, volunteering, or job training to keep benefits beyond 3 months in a 36-month period. Exemptions exist for pregnant individuals, caregivers of young children, and those in waiver areas.
Can I use SNAP benefits to buy groceries online?
Yes. All 50 states and D.C. participate in SNAP Online Purchasing. You can use your EBT card at Amazon, Walmart, and other approved retailers, including through Instacart. Delivery or service fees cannot be paid with SNAP and require a separate payment method.
What is Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility (BBCE) and does my state use it?
BBCE is a state option that raises the gross income limit above the standard 130% of FPL and/or eliminates the asset test. More than 40 states currently use some form of BBCE. Contact your local SNAP office or visit USDA’s SNAP eligibility page to confirm your state’s rules.
What is expedited SNAP processing and do I qualify?
Expedited processing provides benefits within 7 days instead of the standard 30. It is available to households with very low or no income. Your state agency determines eligibility at the time of application.
Can immigrants or non-citizens receive SNAP benefits?
Some lawfully present non-citizens may qualify, including refugees, asylees, and lawful permanent residents who have held that status for five or more years. Undocumented individuals are not eligible. Eligible non-citizen household members can receive benefits without affecting the immigration status of other family members. Consult your state agency or an immigration legal aid organization for details specific to your situation.
What deductions can lower my countable income for SNAP?
Five main deductions apply: the standard deduction ($209/month for 1–3 persons in FY2026), the earned income deduction (20% of gross wages), the shelter deduction (capped at $744/month; uncapped for elderly/disabled), the dependent care deduction, and the medical expense deduction (costs above $35/month for elderly/disabled members only). — This article is published by an independent editorial team for informational purposes only. We are not a government agency and do not represent any federal, state, or local program. SNAP rules, income limits, and benefit amounts change periodically. Always verify current eligibility requirements and application procedures through official sources: the [USDA Food and Nutrition Service](https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program) or your state’s SNAP office. You can also call the SNAP hotline at 1-800-221-5689. No personal data is collected or requested by this publication.