Access to safe drinking water is essential, and if you are a SNAP recipient, you might wonder whether bottled water is something you can buy with your benefits. Understanding what is covered by food stamps can help you make the most of your SNAP benefits. Here is a breakdown of how it works, along with key details you need to know.
Can bottled water be purchased with SNAP benefits?
Yes, you can use your SNAP benefits to purchase bottled water. Water is considered a basic necessity, making it eligible for purchase under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Here is what you need to know:
- Eligible purchases include:
- Bottled water (individual bottles or multipacks)
- Gallon jugs of water
- Sparkling or carbonated water (as long as it is not flavored or enhanced with vitamins)
- What is not covered:
- Flavored waters, vitamin water, or energy drinks
- Water meant for pets or plants
Does VA benefits count as income for SNAP and what to take into account if you’re applying?
What other items are covered by SNAP?
SNAP benefits cover a wide range of food and beverage items. However, the program is designed to provide nutrition, so only certain products qualify. Here is a quick overview:
- Allowed items:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Dairy products
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Breads, cereals, and pasta
- Non-alcoholic beverages like bottled water
- Prohibited items:
- Alcoholic beverages and tobacco products
- Vitamins, supplements, and medicines
- Hot foods or meals prepared for immediate consumption
How to purchase bottled water with your EBT card
Using your SNAP benefits to buy bottled water is simple. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth checkout process:
- Shop at an approved retailer: Look for stores that display the “EBT Accepted Here” sign. Many grocery stores, convenience stores, and farmers’ markets accept SNAP benefits.
- Select eligible items: Add the bottled water or any other SNAP-eligible products to your cart.
- Swipe your EBT card: At checkout, swipe your card and enter your PIN. The cost of eligible items will be deducted from your SNAP balance.
Can you buy water online with SNAP?
Yes, the EBT Online Purchasing Pilot Program allows SNAP recipients to buy groceries online in participating states. This includes bottled water.
- To shop online, visit a participating retailer’s website.
- Add eligible bottled water to your cart.
- During checkout, select “EBT” as your payment method and enter your card details.
Keep in mind that delivery fees and tips cannot be paid with SNAP benefits, so you will need another form of payment for those costs.
Frequently asked questions about SNAP and bottled water
Here are answers to some common questions SNAP recipients have about purchasing bottled water:
- Is flavored water covered by SNAP?
No, flavored or enhanced water does not qualify because it is considered a luxury item, not a necessity. - Can you use SNAP for water purification systems?
No, SNAP benefits cannot be used for water filters, purifiers, or related equipment. - What about reusable water bottles?
Reusable water bottles are considered non-food items and are not covered by SNAP benefits.
Related Posts:
Can I have SNAP Payments if I own a home and what about Food Stamps?
