Ice with Food Stamps: The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps people with low incomes buy food that is good for them. People who are eligible for benefits get them on an EBT card, which works like a bank card. It works at grocery shops, farmers’ markets, and other places that sell food.
What Can You Buy with SNAP?
SNAP benefits mainly cover staple food items like bread, milk, fruits, and vegetables. But did you know they also cover some surprising things? Here are a few:
- Plant seeds and seedlings for gardening
- Bottled water and cold drinks
- Meal replacement shakes and protein powders
- Live seafood
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However, there are some restrictions. EBT cards cannot be used for:
- Hot, prepared foods
- Vitamins and supplements
- Alcoholic beverages
- Non-food items like pet food and household supplies
Who Qualifies for SNAP?
Households who want SNAP benefits must meet specific income and resource requirements. Everybody living in the house needs to have or apply for a Social Security number. Parents can apply for their citizen children and permanent residents who are not U.S. citizens can also qualify.
Additional Benefits
Besides food, being on SNAP can sometimes qualify you for other benefits, like free or low-cost internet service. This can be handy for online shopping, which is becoming more common. When shopping online with SNAP, you can buy food without paying for delivery or shipping fees.
Can You Buy Ice with Food Stamps?
Yes, you can use SNAP benefits to buy crushed or block ice. You can use your benefits for many food-related purchases, both in-store and online. But remember, you can only buy food items online, not pay for delivery.
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SNAP benefits cover some unique items you might not expect:
- Fishing and hunting gear in remote areas of Alaska
- Baby formula, cereals, and juices
- Bakery cakes with minimal non-edible decorations
- Gift baskets with mostly food items
SNAP even covers certain cold drinks like iced coffee and smoothies, but not hot coffee. Brew-it-yourself coffee and tea are okay. Meal replacement shakes, protein powders, bars, and energy drinks are allowed if they have Nutrition Facts labels, but not if labeled as supplements.
