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Halfpoint / Getty Images/iStockphoto Most people consider their pets part of the family. And just like people, they need food too. Despite that, pet food cannot be purchased using your EBT card, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Learn: What is SNAP & Is it The Same as Food Stamps? However, if you get Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits issued through your EBT card, you may be able to purchase pet food. As previously reported by GOBankingRates, the TANF program gives grant funds to states and
territories to provide families with financial assistance and other services. To qualify for TANF benefits, you must be a U.S. citizen, legal alien or qualified alien, reside in the state you applied and be unemployed or underemployed with low or very low income. One of the following must also be true:
If your state issues your TANF benefits through your EBT card, you can withdraw money from the ATM to purchase items like food for your pet. Even if you aren’t eligible for the TANF program, there may be other options to help you purchase pet food and other necessities including state and national programs that offer pet food assistance if you’re in need. According to the Humane Society, you can locate a pet food pantry or other pet-related community service or explore an interactive resource map provided by Feeding Pets of the Homeless. You can also contact your local shelter and rescue organizations for additional assistance. See:
Does McDonald’s Accept EBT SNAP/Food Stamps as Payment? Seniors in need of help with pet food, cat litter and other supplies can turn to the PetSmart Charity through Meals on Wheels. More From GOBankingRates
Our pets need to eat, too! So, can you buy dog food with food stamps for your furry friend? Navigating the list of what you can and cannot buy with your EBT card can be difficult. Don’t worry: Low Income Relief is here to help! Unfortunately, no, you cannot buy dog food with food stamps. This is because pet food is considered to be a non-food item since it is not meant for human consumption. Generally, your EBT card will only let you buy food items that are not hot or meant to be eaten at the location you are at. While there can be exceptions to the strict list of what you can purchase through SNAP, the list below generally covers what you can buy:
This article and this article go more into depth about what specifically can be purchased with your EBT card. Can I make my own pet food by buying ingredients with my EBT card?If you are in need of a short-term way to feed your pets, you can buy meat, fruits, and vegetables with your EBT card in order to make your own pet food at home. If you do this, however, please be sure to research what foods your pets can eat and what the ratio and portion of food should be. This should only be a short-term solution because your pet needs specific nutrients in their diet in order to stay healthy in the long-term. For example, cats need an essential nutrient called taurine in their diets because their body can’t produce the amount they need on their own. The meat you provide your cat can be okay in the short-term, but in the long-term that food may not have enough taurine, which can lead to your cat’s heart or vision weakening. Not only is it upsetting to have your pet become ill, but it’s also expensive to take your pet to the vet for treatment. Pet foods are specifically designed to meet your pet’s nutritional needs, but you may not be able to meet those by feeding an at-home food without researching specific ways to supplement your pet’s food. Nutritionally balanced at-home pet food can often be more expensive and time-consuming than manufactured pet food. Where can I find free or cheap pet food?Luckily, there are a number of options you can explore in order to find free or cheap food for your furry friend.
I need more help!Need more info? We’ve got you! Here’s some other resources!
As a third-year English major with years of researching and writing experience, Chloe uses her experience and her passion for helping others to help you get the financial aid you deserve. Can you buy dog food with food stamps in Texas?If you get SNAP food benefits:
You can't use SNAP to buy alcoholic drinks, tobacco products, hot food or any food sold to eat in the store. You also can't use SNAP to buy items that are not food, such as soap, paper products, medicines, vitamins, supplies for the home, grooming items, pet food and cosmetics.
Can you buy pet food with food stamps in Florida?Acceptable EBT Purchases
It cannot be used for food assistance benefits to buy nonfood items such as pet foods, soaps, paper products, household supplies, grooming items, alcoholic beverages, tobacco, vitamins, medicines, food to eat in the store, or hot foods.
Can I buy protein powder with EBT?Only protein powders sold as food can be purchased with food stamps. Protein powders sold as supplements are not EBT eligible.
Can you buy dog food with food stamps in Virginia?Nonfood items such as pet foods, soaps, paper products, medicines and vitamins, household supplies, grooming items, and cosmetics, also are ineligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
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