Easter is a time for celebration, and for many families, filling an Easter basket is a beloved tradition. For shoppers using SNAP EBT benefits, understanding the purchasing rules can sometimes be confusing, especially when it comes to seasonal items like pre-made Easter baskets. While non-food items are not covered by SNAP, the program does allow for the purchase of gift baskets, including those for Easter, provided they meet a specific federal guideline. This guide will detail what to look for at Walmart to ensure your Easter basket purchases are EBT eligible.
The 50% Rule: Decoding EBT Eligibility for Gift Baskets
The fundamental rule governing the purchase of gift baskets with SNAP benefits is the "50% rule." This means that for a pre-made gift basket to be eligible, more than half of its total value must come from SNAP-approved food items. The determination of value is based on the contents, not the price tag. For example, a basket with $10 worth of candy and $5 worth of small toys would likely be eligible. However, a basket containing an expensive plush toy and a few small candies would not qualify. The best approach is to look for baskets that are clearly filled with mostly food products. At Walmart, pre-made baskets typically display nutrition facts on their packaging, which is a strong indicator of EBT eligibility.
Making Sense of Product Labels
When shopping for pre-made baskets at Walmart, look for packaging that lists ingredients and nutritional information. This signifies that the product is categorized as a food item in Walmart's system. In some cases, store signs might also indicate EBT eligibility, but the safest bet is to scan the item yourself using the Walmart app. The app will confirm whether an item can be purchased with SNAP benefits. Gift sets containing items like chocolates, cookies, and other approved snack foods are often safe choices.
Building Your Own EBT-Eligible Easter Basket
If you prefer more control over your Easter basket contents or want to ensure 100% eligibility, building your own is a great option. This allows you to hand-pick every item to ensure it's covered by your benefits. Here’s a simple breakdown of the items you can use:
- EBT-Eligible Fillers: Stock up on classic Easter treats like chocolate eggs, jellybeans, and other candies, as well as fruits, popcorn, and cookies. You can also purchase items like cake mixes or brownie mixes to create homemade treats.
- Non-Eligible Basket and Toys: Purchase non-food items, such as the basket, plastic eggs, and small toys, separately using cash or another payment method. You can find affordable options in Walmart's seasonal or toy aisles. The final transaction would involve two separate payments: one with your EBT card for the food items and another for the non-food goods.
EBT-Eligible vs. Non-Eligible Easter Items at Walmart
To make your shopping trip even easier, here is a comparison table outlining typical EBT-eligible and non-eligible Easter basket components found at Walmart.
| EBT-Eligible Items | Non-Eligible Items (Requires Cash) |
|---|---|
| Pre-packaged candy (e.g., chocolate eggs, jellybeans) | Pre-made baskets with mostly toys |
| Snack-filled gift sets (e.g., movie night boxes with popcorn and candy) | The basket or container itself (if sold empty) |
| Cookie and cake mixes | Plastic eggs, shredded paper fill, bows |
| Easter-themed baked goods from the bakery (cold items) | Plush toys, games, coloring books |
| Baking supplies (sugar, flour, sprinkles) | Party supplies (napkins, plates, decorations) |
| Fruit snacks, gummies, and juices | Easter-themed clothing or accessories |
The Online vs. In-Store Shopping Distinction
When shopping for EBT-eligible items at Walmart, especially for pre-made baskets, there can be a difference between online and in-store availability. Walmart.com makes it easy to identify EBT-eligible products online with a specific filter under the "Grocery" department. Items that are SNAP-eligible will also be marked with a blue and white "EBT" emblem. However, online purchases can be limited to items shipped and sold by Walmart.com, excluding those from third-party Marketplace sellers. In-store, the best approach is to physically check the basket's contents and scan it with your phone to confirm eligibility before checkout.
Conclusion
Navigating EBT eligibility for Easter baskets at Walmart is straightforward once you understand the core rules. Focus on baskets and gift sets where the majority of the value is comprised of food items, or opt for the DIY route by filling a basket with your own EBT-eligible candy and snacks. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a joyful and treat-filled Easter for your family while staying within your budget. Always double-check product labels or use the Walmart app to confirm eligibility, especially when purchasing pre-made seasonal gifts.
Authoritative Outbound Link
For the most current information and official guidance on what you can purchase with SNAP benefits, refer to the USDA Food and Nutrition Service website.
