The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps, is a federal program that provides food assistance to low-income individuals and families. SNAP benefits can be used to purchase food for human consumption, but they cannot be used to purchase pet food.

Can You Use EBT for Pet Food?

Why Can't You Use EBT for Pet Food?

There are a few reasons why SNAP benefits cannot be used to purchase pet food.

1. SNAP is intended to provide food assistance to people, not pets. The program was created to help low-income individuals and families meet their basic food needs. Pet food is not considered a basic food need.

2. SNAP benefits are limited. The amount of SNAP benefits that a household receives is based on its income and household size. These benefits are often very limited and must be used to purchase food for the household members. Pet food is a luxury that many low-income households cannot afford.

3. SNAP is a federal program. The federal government sets the rules for SNAP and does not allow pet food to be purchased with SNAP benefits. Some states have tried to pass laws that would allow SNAP benefits to be used for pet food, but these laws have been struck down by the federal government.

What Can You Do if You Need Help Feeding Your Pet?

If you are a low-income individual or family and you need help feeding your pet, there are a few things you can do.

1. Contact your local food bank. Many food banks provide pet food assistance to low-income families. You can find a food bank near you by visiting the Feeding America website.

2. Look for pet food pantries. Some communities have pet food pantries that provide free or low-cost pet food to low-income families. You can find a pet food pantry near you by searching online or by contacting your local animal shelter.

3. Ask for help from friends and family. If you have friends or family members who are willing to help, you can ask them to donate pet food or money to help you feed your pet.

4. Consider getting a part-time job. If you are able to work, you can get a part-time job to earn extra money to help you feed your pet.