Exploring The World Of Possibilities - Things You Can Buy With Ebt On Amazon
Among the platforms that have embraced this change, Amazon stands out as a versatile marketplace where individuals can purchase a wide array of products. In this article, we'll delve into the exciting possibilities and explore the diverse things you can buy with EBT on Amazon.
Author:Buttskin FamilyReviewer:Caden SteelheartJan 11, 2024541 Shares23.5K Views
In recent years, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) has evolved to meet the changing needs of its beneficiaries. One notable development is the ability to use Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards for online purchases, opening up a world of convenience and choices for those relying on government assistance.
Among the platforms that have embraced this change, Amazon stands out as a versatile marketplace where individuals can purchase a wide array of products. In this article, we'll delve into the exciting possibilities and explore the diverse things you can buy with EBT on Amazon.
What Is SNAP?
If you're new to SNAP or thinking about applying for it, you might have questions about the program before plunging into the unexpected things that can be bought with SNAP EBT. Assistance with food purchases is a need for millions of Americans at some point in their lives. While many people are lucky enough to have strong support networks that enable them to buy food, others are not as fortunate. It has gotten worse because of the pandemic.
For individuals in need, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, is helpful and convenient. Previously known as Food Stamps, this federal program assists low-income Americans who might not otherwise be able to put food on the table. Those who use a SNAP Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card can purchase wholesome food at participating retailers. Through the program, no one will go hungry; elders will be able to afford to eat as healthily as working individuals, and youngsters will be able to develop into adults.
What Can’t You Buy On Amazon With EBT?
Just like when you shop in the grocery store or a big box store there are items that you can’t buy with SNAP benefits on Amazon. The items on Amazon that aren’t eligible for SNAP include:
- Clothing
- Toys
- Electronics
- Household goods
- Beer, wine, and other alcoholic beverages
- Tobacco products
- Cleaning and household supplies
- Cosmetics
- Hygiene products
- Pet foods
- Medicines, vitamins, and supplements
Things You Can Buy With Ebt On Amazon
Items that are available for purchase on Amazon that meet the requirements for SNAP/EBT benefits are labeled as SNAP/EBT eligible. You can buy a wide range of groceries and food items on Amazon with your SNAP benefits like:
- Fruits and vegetables (fresh, frozen, and canned)
- Fish and other seafood (fresh, frozen, and canned)
- Dairy products such as milk, butter, cheese, and yogurt (fresh and shelf-stable food)
- Pork, beef, poultry, and other meat products (fresh, frozen, and canned)
- Fish and other seafood items (fresh, frozen, and canned)
- Sugar, oil, flour, cake mixes, and other baking items
- Soda and juice
- Cooked goods such as cookies, pies, cakes, and other such items
- Nuts, crackers, pretzels, chips, and other snacks
- Pizza, potatoes, and other freezer aisle items
- Mustard, ketchup, and other condiments
- Honey, sugar, maple syrup, and other natural and artificial sweeteners
- Spices and seasonings (dried, powdered, and extracted)
Always look for the SNAP/EBT eligible label on listing for food items. And if you’re buying items from a third-party seller be sure to check their payment policies before ordering.
What Are The Most Surprising Things You Can Buy With EBT On Amazon?
Without further ado, let's discuss the most bizarre EBT-eligible products I discovered this month on Amazon. Working our way up to the most costly, we'll begin with the least expensive. If you’re looking for an up-to-date list of surprising things you can buy with EBT on Amazon, be sure to check this link!
Toys That Include Food
I'm a homeschooling mother who enjoys a good science project, therefore I think this is a great resource that low-income families can use to engage their children in science education. These kits appear to be qualified for purchase with food stamps because they generate edible food. I purchased several, such as a whole Candy Chemistry kit, several Popin Cookin kits, and a Gross Gummy Candy Lab! The cost of the kits varied from $6 to $39.
Toys That Look Like Food
I believe that's why Amazon has this adorable Cotton Candy Color Mix Surprise slime toy listed as EBT eligible it looks like food. If Amazon uses AI to categorize EBT-eligible products, the $10 price tag and the abundance of food-related terms like "lollipop" and "cotton candy" likely led the system to believe the item was food. To find out that the Cotton Candy Color Mix is not food and shouldn't be consumed, you must read the fine print.
Chia Pets
I was taken aback by this one! Yes, I am aware that EBT can be used to purchase seeds and produce-bearing plants, but chia pets? Amazon listed this $20 Chia Pet Troll as EBT-eligible, which I had never truly considered until now. At first, this surprised me the most among the items you could purchase on Amazon with EBT, but I believe it's because sprouts and chia seeds are typically edible.
However, it appears that you have little options as the only EBT-eligible chia pet I could find on Amazon was this one with a troll motif. Go ahead and grow your sprouts on a Troll head, though, if that's what you want to do.
Weight Loss Supplements
A wide range of EBT-eligible weight loss items are available on Amazon. While some items cost as little as $10 and others as much as $40, the average price was about $20. Since most of these goods are regarded as meal replacements, they are also eligible for EBT at Amazon and most other stores.
Dog Treats
For some reason, there seems to be an issue with this that makes it incredibly tough to correct. There are moments when this Cadet Gourmet Twist pack looks to be EBT-Eligible and moments when it does not. I suppose it just depends on when you look.
Unfortunately, pet food is not allowed to be purchased with food stamps, according to the USDA, so this item shouldn't be listed as EBT eligible. Though one of my kids mistook these for some kind of snack item when they were watching from a distance, so perhaps the Amazon AI was also baffled by this glitch? I'm not sure.
Kinder Joy Eggs
This could be among the most surprising items you can purchase on Amazon with EBT, depending on where you reside. In terms of EBT, Kinder Joy eggs are a bit of a contentious topic. Are these toys or food? It usually depends on the store where you are buying. Some retailers designate them as EBT eligible, while others don't, since this is one of those ambiguous areas we discussed. This $25 bulk bundle was listed as EBT-eligible on Amazon.
Games That Include Food
Some games, such as this $26 Truth or Dab hot sauce game, feature food components. With its 250 questions, the game "pits players against each other, burns bridges, and brings up past stories we were all trying to forget," according to the description. Considering the spicy sauce's 10/10 heat level and over 2 million Scoville ratings, this game is perhaps not the ideal choice for a family game night.
Flowering Tea Set
This tea set, which retails for $26, comes with five tea flowers and a 16-ounce glass teapot. Even though I don't drink tea, this thing intrigues me. According to the description, "These uncommon Leaves of Art slowly unfold into a bouquet of beautiful shapes and exquisite flavors when steeped in hot water... Watching your tea bloom is more enjoyable than just drinking it. Amazon's Choice for EBT Tea Gift Set indicates that it must be a popular buy among EBT customers.
Decorating Supplies
My daughter was thrilled to see me open this sugar cookie decorating kit because she has just developed a serious interest in baking and decorating. The kit costs $29 and comes with meringue powder, cookie tools, an icing bottle, and icing colors. It looks like this should be a valid EBT buy because I actually took the effort to price each item separately and found that the edible components (food coloring and meringue powder) were worth at least half the set price. She's going to love this $12 Royal Icing 101 kit that I also purchased; it was almost designated as EBT qualifying.
Expensive Gift Crates
The USDA states that you can purchase specific gift baskets as long as the food within accounts for at least half of the item's worth. Evidently, that has also been a recurrent subject in this post. Consequently, there are a ton of unique gift crates on Amazon that are designated as EBT-eligible. Some are non-food gifts such as socks, baskets, floral arrangements, and even a gorgeous mahogany photo box that serves as a keepsake. That categorically places these among the most startling items you can get on Amazon with EBT!
Things You Can Buy With Ebt On Amazon - FAQs
What Is EBT, And How Does It Work On Amazon?
EBT stands for Electronic Benefit Transfer, which is the system used by state welfare departments to issue benefits to recipients. Amazon allows eligible customers to use their EBT cards to make online purchases, including groceries and other essential items.
What Types Of Groceries Can I Buy With EBT On Amazon?
EBT can be used to purchase a wide variety of groceries on Amazon, including fresh produce, dairy products, canned goods, snacks, and more. Amazon has a specific section where eligible items for EBT purchase are listed, making it easy for users to identify qualifying products.
Can I Buy Baby Products With EBT On Amazon?
Yes, EBT can be used to purchase essential baby and child care items on Amazon. This includes diapers, formula, baby food, and other necessary supplies for families with young children.
Are There Restrictions On Non-food Items When Using EBT On Amazon?
While EBT is primarily intended for purchasing food items, there are some non-food items that qualify. Household supplies, personal care products, and certain electronic devices like Amazon Kindle e-readers may be eligible for purchase with EBT on Amazon.
Can I Use EBT To Buy Electronics Or Non-essential Items On Amazon?
Generally, EBT is intended for essential items like food and household necessities. However, there are some exceptions, and eligible customers may be able to use EBT to purchase certain electronic devices. It's important to check Amazon's specific guidelines and the list of eligible items.
Conclusion
The integration of EBT on Amazon has transformed the shopping experience for those relying on government assistance. From groceries and health products to household supplies and educational materials, the platform offers a diverse range of items that cater to the varied needs of individuals and families.
This inclusivity not only enhances convenience but also ensures that EBT users have access to a broad spectrum of goods, promoting a more equitable and accessible shopping environment. As technology continues to shape the landscape of commerce, the collaboration between government assistance programs and online marketplaces like Amazon reflects a positive step towards fostering inclusivity and meeting the evolving needs of society.
Buttskin Family
Author
The Buttskins are a crazy author family who love writing, laughter, and eating an unhealthy amount of junk food. Mom Rockita started scribbling stories as soon as she could hold a pen, and Dad John didn't realize authoring children's books was a real job until after they were married.
Their kids have embraced storytelling at an early age. Little Lucy, age 5, dictates her colorful tales about dragons and princesses to her parents. Her 8-year old brother Jake collects scraps of paper to diagram his latest imaginary adventure involving ninjas and dinosaurs.
Caden Steelheart
Reviewer
Caden Steelheart, an enigmatic author, weaves tales that immerse readers in the depths of sin city's underbelly. With his words as a weapon, he crafts literary masterpieces that reflect the dark and dangerous spirit of the city. Caden's writing captures the gritty essence of sin city, delving into the intricacies of its characters and the moral complexities that define their existence.
Born amidst the shadows, Caden draws inspiration from the relentless chaos and unforgiving nature of the city. His words carry the weight of experience, creating a vivid and haunting portrayal of sin city's undercurrents. Through his stories, he explores the blurred lines between right and wrong, exploring themes of power, deception, and redemption.
Caden Steelheart's literary prowess has made him a name whispered in literary circles, captivating readers with his ability to immerse them in sin city's intricately woven tapestry. With each written word, he invites readers to journey into the darker realms of the human experience, offering them a glimpse into the secrets and sins that shape the city's inhabitants. Caden Steelheart, a master of capturing the essence of sin city through his writing, continues to captivate audiences with his haunting and evocative narratives.
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