SNAP Fraud and Abuse

It is illegal to knowingly use, transfer, buy, sell or possess SNAP benefits, food purchased with SNAP benefits, or South Dakota EBT cards in any way not authorized by the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. You could be charged with a felony, and if found guilty, you could be fined up to $250,000, be sentenced to 20 years in jail, or both.

Persons found guilty of intentional program violations will be disqualified from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. In addition, repayment of any unauthorized SNAP benefits issued is required.

Households CANNOT use SNAP benefits to buy:

• Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes or tobacco;
  
• Any nonfood items such as pet foods, soaps, paper products and household supplies
  
• Vitamins and medicines.
  
• Food that will be eaten in the store.
  
• Hot foods