Exploring What Can You Buy with EBT: A Guide to Making Informed Choices

10 Surprising Things You Can Buy With EBT – and What You Should Know Before You Do

EBT, or Electronic Benefit Transfer, is a government assistance program that helps low-income households afford groceries. While many people associate EBT with basics like fruits, vegetables, and pantry staples, there are actually many other items that can be purchased with EBT that may surprise you.

1. Seeds and Plants

Did you know that you can use your EBT benefits to purchase seeds and plants that produce food for your household? Many states allow this type of purchase, which can be a great way to save money on produce in the long-term.

2. Baby Formula

For households with young children, EBT benefits can be used to purchase baby formula. This can be a significant cost savings, as formula can be quite expensive.

3. Energy Drinks

While it’s generally advised to limit consumption of sugary drinks, individuals with EBT benefits are allowed to purchase energy drinks with their benefits. However, it’s important to keep in mind that energy drinks should be consumed in moderation.

4. Honey

Natural sweeteners like honey are allowed purchases with EBT, which can be a healthier alternative to processed sugar. Local honey can also be a great way to support small businesses in your community.

5. Spices and Seasonings

Adding spices and seasonings to your cooking can greatly enhance the flavor and make mealtime more enjoyable. Luckily, EBT benefits can be used to purchase these items – just make sure to compare prices at different stores to get the best deal.

6. Vitamins and Supplements

For individuals looking to improve their health, EBT benefits can be used to purchase vitamins and supplements. It’s important to talk to a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.

7. Prepared Foods

While it can be tempting to purchase prepared foods like pizza and deli sandwiches, it’s important to keep in mind that these items can be more expensive than making meals at home. However, EBT benefits can be used to purchase prepared foods in certain circumstances.

8. Seafood

Seafood can be a great source of lean protein and essential omega-3 fatty acids. Many types of seafood can be purchased with EBT benefits.

9. Energy-Efficient Light Bulbs

Looking to save money on your electricity bill? EBT benefits can be used to purchase energy-efficient light bulbs, which can be a great way to save both money and energy in the long-term.

10. Feminine Products

For households with women, EBT benefits can be used to purchase feminine hygiene products like tampons and pads. This can be a significant cost savings, as these products can be quite expensive.

While it can be helpful to know what can be purchased with EBT benefits, it’s important to make informed choices when using this assistance program. Here are a few tips for getting the most out of your EBT benefits:

Check prices at different stores to find the best deals
Buy in bulk when possible to save money in the long-term
Choose fresh fruits and vegetables when possible for optimal nutrition
Avoid overspending on non-essential items like candy and soda

By making informed choices and being mindful of your purchases, EBT benefits can be a helpful resource for low-income households looking to afford groceries and essential products.

Healthy Eating on a Budget: 5 Nutritious Foods You Can Buy with EBT

Eating healthy can be challenging, especially for individuals or households with limited resources. However, there are many nutritious foods that can be purchased with EBT benefits. Here are five healthy foods to consider:

1. Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are the foundation of a healthy diet, providing essential vitamins, fiber, and other nutrients. EBT benefits can be used to purchase fresh, frozen, or canned fruits and vegetables.

2. Whole Grains

Whole grains are an important source of complex carbohydrates and fiber. EBT benefits can be used to purchase whole-grain bread, pasta, and rice.

3. Lean Proteins

Protein is an essential nutrient that helps build and repair tissue in the body. EBT benefits can be used to purchase lean proteins like chicken, turkey, and beans.

4. Dairy Products

Dairy products like milk and cheese are important sources of calcium and other nutrients. EBT benefits can be used to purchase dairy products like cheese, milk, and yogurt.

5. Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds are nutrient-dense foods that provide healthy fats, fiber, and protein. EBT benefits can be used to purchase nuts, seeds, and nut butters.

While it can be challenging to eat healthy on a budget, there are a few tips that can help:

Plan your meals in advance to avoid overspending on food
Choose generic or store-brand options to save money
Buy frozen fruits and vegetables when fresh options are not available
Consider joining a local food co-op or community garden to save on produce costs

By choosing healthy, nutritious foods and being mindful of your purchases, it’s possible to eat well on a budget – and EBT benefits can be a helpful resource in achieving that goal.

Satisfy Your Cravings: 3 Unexpected Treats You Can Buy with EBT

While it’s important to make healthy choices when it comes to food, everyone deserves a treat once in a while. Here are three unexpected treats that can be purchased with EBT benefits:

1. Ice Cream

While not all types of ice cream are eligible for purchase with EBT benefits, certain brands and varieties are allowable. However, it’s important to enjoy ice cream in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

2. Cookies

Certain types of cookies can be purchased with EBT benefits, as long as they do not contain ingredients like chocolate chips or candy pieces. Plain cookies like vanilla wafers and animal crackers can be a good option for a sweet treat.

3. Candy

Certain types of candy like gummies and hard candy can be purchased with EBT benefits. However, it’s important to choose candy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

While it’s possible to indulge in treats with EBT benefits, it’s important to keep a few tips in mind:

Limit consumption of sugary treats to avoid overloading on calories
Look for store-brand options or sales to save money on treats
Consider healthier options like fresh fruit or yogurt when seeking a sweet snack

By being mindful of your choices and indulging in moderation, EBT benefits can be a helpful resource in satisfying your cravings.

Stocking Up: 4 Household Items You Can Buy with EBT

EBT benefits can be used to purchase more than just food – many household items are also allowable purchases. Here are four household items to consider buying with EBT benefits:

1. Shampoo and Conditioner

Regularly shampooing and conditioning your hair is important for maintaining healthy hair. EBT benefits can be used to purchase both shampoo and conditioner.

2. Toilet Paper

When it comes to household necessities, toilet paper is at the top of the list. EBT benefits can be used to purchase toilet paper, which can be a significant cost savings.

3. Laundry Detergent

Washing your clothing and linens regularly is important for maintaining cleanliness and reducing the risk of illness. EBT benefits can be used to purchase laundry detergent, which is a key component of clean laundry.

4. Toothpaste

Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for overall health. EBT benefits can be used to purchase toothpaste, which is necessary for keeping your teeth and gums clean and healthy.

By using EBT benefits to purchase household items, households can save money on essential products and be better equipped to maintain cleanliness and health in the home.

Snack Attack: 5 Healthy, Affordable Snacks You Can Buy with EBT

Choosing healthy snacks throughout the day can help maintain energy levels and promote overall health. Here are five healthy snacks that can be purchased with EBT benefits:

1. Fresh Fruit

Fresh fruit is a nutrient-dense snack that can provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber. EBT benefits can be used to purchase fresh fruit like berries, bananas, and apples.

2. Nuts

Nuts like almonds, walnuts, and cashews are an excellent source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. EBT benefits can be used to purchase nuts, which can be a satisfying snack that provides long-lasting energy.

3. Dried Fruit

Dried fruit like raisins, dates, and apricots are a convenient and nutrient-dense snack that can be easily stored and transported. EBT benefits can be used to purchase dried fruit products like trail mix.

4. Whole-Grain Crackers

Whole-grain crackers like wheat thins or triscuits can be a satisfying and filling snack that provides fiber and complex carbohydrates. EBT benefits can be used to purchase these crackers and other whole-grain snack options.

5. Vegetable Sticks and Hummus

Vegetable sticks like baby carrots, celery, and bell peppers can be a low-calorie snack that provides essential vitamins and minerals. EBT benefits can be used to purchase hummus or other dips to accompany these vegetables.

By choosing healthy, balanced snacks and being mindful of portion sizes, individuals can use EBT benefits to maintain good nutrition throughout the day.

Get Cooking: 6 Kitchen Staples You Can Buy with EBT

Cooking at home can be a great way to save money and eat healthier meals. Here are six kitchen staples that can be purchased with EBT benefits:

1. Flour

Flour is a pantry staple that is necessary for baking and cooking. EBT benefits can be used to purchase flour in various types, including all-purpose flour and whole-wheat flour.

2. Sugar

Sugar is a common ingredient in many recipes, including baked goods and sauces. EBT benefits can be used to purchase granulated sugar or other sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.

3. Salt

Salt is a basic ingredient that enhances the flavor of many dishes. EBT benefits can be used to purchase table salt or other types of salt like sea salt or kosher salt.

4. Cooking Oil

Cooking oil is necessary for many recipes, from sautéing to baking. EBT benefits can be used to purchase various types of oil, including olive oil, vegetable oil, and canola oil.

5. Spices and Herbs

Spices and herbs provide flavor and aroma to many dishes. EBT benefits can be used to purchase various spices and herbs like oregano, paprika, and cinnamon.

6. Baking Powder

Baking powder is a leavening agent that is necessary for many recipes, including cakes and biscuits. EBT benefits can be used to purchase baking powder, which can be a cost savings compared to other leavening agents like yeast or baking soda.

By having these basic pantry staples on hand, individuals can cook a variety of simple and nutritious meals and snacks at home – and EBT benefits can be used to cover these costs.

Conclusion

EBT benefits can be a helpful resource for low-income households looking to afford groceries, household items, and other essentials. By being mindful of your choices and making informed purchases, it’s possible to stretch these benefits further and make the most out of this assistance program. Whether you’re looking for healthy foods, household items, or indulgent treats, there are many options available with EBT benefits – and by using this assistance program wisely, you can make sure that your household is well taken care of.