Did you know that using coupons with food stamps is permissible? I get this question a lot. But, you may use manufacturer and store coupons with your food stamps or SNAP benefits. However, you have to know a few things about the process before you get started. If you follow my tips, you can successfully combine your coupons with your benefits. Remember, every cent saved with a coupon adds more money back to your monthly grocery budget. And, frugal living really can help everyone.
According to USDA.gov, the following items may be purchased with your EBT card:
Using Coupons with Food Stamps – What you CAN Purchase
- breads and cereals
- fruits and vegetables
- meats, fish and poultry; and
- dairy products
- Seeds and plants to product food for the household to eat
Using Coupons with Food Stamps – What you CANNOT Purchase
- Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes or tobacco
- Any nonfood items, such as pet foods, soaps, paper products, diapers, and household supplies
- Vitamins and medicines
- Food that will be eaten in the store
- Hot foods
Now that you know what you can purchase with benefits, you also know what to save on with coupons. Take it a point to search online, in the Sunday paper, or in-store for coupons (which also include deals and buy one get one free specials). This is a great way to increase the amount of healthy foods for your family’s meals.
Both types of manufacturer and store coupons adjust the sales price. They also depend on your state’s policy of food stamp sales tax exemption. State policies vary greatly. For example, only certain retailers in Arizona can accept SNAP benefits.
Keep in mind that when using manufacturer coupons, the manufacturer pays the store the cost of the item and you must pay for the tax. So, make sure to bring some change along with you in addition to your EBT card.
Alternatively, the tax on store coupons is paid for by the store. This type of coupon is a store discount and you won’t be required to pay the tax. Even if you are required to pay a small tax on using coupons, imagine the amount of money you can add to your budget and pantry.
To get the most bang for your buck, start researching your local store’s weekly circular and clipping store coupons. Then, search online or in the Sunday paper for manufacturer coupons. Most stores will let you use a combination of store and manufacturer coupons to get an even greater discount.
So, just to recap and make things a bit simpler: manufacturers coupons = tax; store coupons = no tax. Depending on your state’s policy of food stamp sales tax exemption, you may not have to pay for the tax while using manufacturers coupons (assuming you’re purchasing an approved food item with food stamps or EBT card).
If you know more about SNAP benefits or you have any tips on using coupons with food stamps, please let us know on our Facebook page. You can also share other tips and life hacks regarding how to live frugally.
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