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By: Arlenys Tabare Published 12 Sep 2023, 17:08 pm EDT
According to data from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), in 2021 the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provided approximately 41.5 million people receive financial assistance to purchase food.
This program that offers benefits to low-income families, offers an average of $218 dollars for each member of the household, To use the money, recipients must have an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card with which they can buy food in stores, grocery stores, supermarkets, retail chains, agricultural markets, among others that are authorized.
Although many people believe that these funds can only buy certain foods, the truth is that this depends on the state in which the benefit is received, that is, the place where the beneficiary resides; however, Some unusual purchases can be made with SNAP food stamps and here we tell you what they are:
Seeds and Plants
With the money received from SNAP benefits you can buy all types of food-producing plants or seeds, in this case you can purchase them at any retailer that is approved by the Program.
live lobsters
Although in the list of what you cannot buy, It is established that it is prohibited to acquire live animals, shellfish are an exceptionmeaning that although you cannot buy pets with your SNAP payment, you can buy a lobster and cook it at home.
Meals in restaurants
In most states it is not allowed to buy food in restaurants with SNAP benefits, however there are exceptions, in this case must qualify for the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) and reside in a state where it is approved.
This generally applies to those who are homeless, disabled, elderly, or do not have the resources to cook at home. In this case, Participating fast food chains and restaurants offer SNAP recipients reduced prices.
Energy drinks
Among the prohibitions for purchasing food with SNAP are tobacco and alcoholic beverages, but purchasing energy drinks is allowed, only if they meet USDA standards.
Snacks
Finally, with the money received monthly from SNAP you can buy snacks such as muffins, cakes, donuts, pastries, among others. Like Basic foods such as eggs, vegetables, meats, chicken, bread, sausages, among others.
If you want to be part of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) you should know what the income level is to receive benefits this year, The amounts sent to low-income families depend on the number of members in the household.
Keep reading:
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