Yes, you can use your EBT card to buy water, including bottled water, gallon jugs, or cases, at participating retailers. Water is considered an essential item and is eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. However, there are some restrictions on what can and cannot be purchased with EBT cards, which will be detailed below.
Eligibility for Purchasing Water with EBT
The USDA’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) allows low-income individuals to buy certain food items with an EBT card, including bottled water. Both still and sparkling water are eligible, but flavored water, vitamin water, and sports drinks are not. Additionally, only water intended for human consumption can be purchased, excluding water for pets or plants.
How to Use EBT to Buy Water
To use EBT to buy water, simply visit an authorized retailer that accepts SNAP benefits and look for the “EBT Accepted Here” sign. Once you have selected the water you wish to purchase, bring it to the checkout and swipe your EBT card. The cost of the water will be deducted from your SNAP balance.
EBT Online Purchasing Pilot Program
The EBT Online Purchasing Pilot Program allows SNAP recipients to purchase groceries online using their EBT card. Currently, the program is available in select states and retailers.
To use the EBT Online Purchasing Pilot Program to buy water, visit the website of a participating retailer and add the water to your online shopping cart. During checkout, select “EBT” as your payment method and enter your EBT card information. The cost of the water will be deducted from your SNAP balance.
FAQs on EBT and Water Purchases
Here are some frequently asked questions about using EBT to purchase water:
Is water eligible for purchase with EBT?
Yes, water is an allowable SNAP purchase. Whether it’s bottled water, gallon jugs of water, or even cases of water, you can use your EBT card to buy them at any participating retailer. Water is considered an essential item, and as such, it is eligible for purchase with EBT.
Are there any restrictions on the type of water that can be purchased with EBT?
No, there are no restrictions on the type of water that can be purchased with EBT. You can buy any type of water, including flavored or carbonated water, as long as it is intended for human consumption.
Can EBT be used to purchase water filters or water purification systems?
No, EBT cannot be used to purchase water filters or water purification systems. These items are not considered eligible for purchase with EBT benefits.
Can EBT be used to purchase other non-food items?
Yes, EBT can be used to purchase other non-food items, such as soap, shampoo, and toilet paper. However, there are some rules and restrictions that you should be aware of if you’re planning on using your EBT card to purchase non-food items. For example, you cannot use EBT to purchase alcohol, tobacco, or firearms.
Where can EBT be used to purchase water?
EBT can be used to purchase water at any participating retailer that accepts EBT. This includes grocery stores, convenience stores, and some farmers’ markets. However, it is important to note that not all retailers accept EBT, so it is a good idea to check with the store before attempting to make a purchase with your EBT card.
To learn more about the range of items you can purchase with an EBT card please refer to our comprehensive guide ‘What You Can Buy with EBT’. This guide offers valuable insights into the types of products eligible for EBT purchases.