This page provides important information and updates about the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) specific to Idaho retailers. Here, you’ll find resources, tools, and guidance to support your role in implementing program requirements, including the upcoming candy and soda restriction.
Important Change to Idaho SNAP Benefits
Starting Feb. 15, 2026, SNAP benefits in Idaho can no longer be used to buy:
• Candy
• Soda
DHW is asking all retailers to confirm their readiness to comply with these changes, which take effect on Feb. 15, 2026. To ensure retailer compliance, any necessary updates, such as changes to point of sale systems or operational processes, must be implemented on (but not before) Feb. 15, 2026.
Retailer Support
If you have questions about the SNAP candy and soda restriction or need help using the materials in the toolkit, please contact us at: SNAPWaiver@dhw.idaho.gov
Candy and Soda Definitions
Idaho House Bill 109 defines candy and soda restricted from SNAP purchases.
To better identify products, we have created two quick references for candy and soda. These references give a high-level overview of the types of products that are eligible and which are restricted under the new SNAP rules. These are general guidelines to understand the new definition and are not product specific.
Candy Matrix (coming soon)
Soda Matrix (coming soon)
“Candy” is a preparation of sugar, honey, or other natural or artificial sweeteners combined with chocolate, fruits, nuts, or other ingredients or flavorings in the form of confections, bars, drops, or pieces.
“Soda” is any nonalcoholic beverage that contains natural or artificial sweeteners.
Soda” does not include any beverages:
- that contain milk or milk substitutes,
- that are greater than fifty percent (50%) vegetable juice or fruit juice by volume,
- that require preparation before consumption, such as powders or concentrates.
What Retailers Need to Do
- Update POS systems to restrict candy and soda purchases from SNAP.
- Train cashiers on the upcoming changes.
- Use the materials in the SNAP Media and Print Toolkit below to help inform customers about the changes.
- Direct customers to the Customer SNAP webpage (link available Jan. 2) or customer service phone number for questions.
Media and Print Toolkit
Use the materials in the SNAP Media and Print Toolkit to help inform your customers about the changes. All materials are available in English and Spanish, in both color and grayscale formats. Retailers are responsible for printing and distributing the items that work best for their locations.
Retailers are encouraged to use the Approved Language document to create their own materials.
Customer Information Cards
Printable handouts that explain the change to customers.
Customer Information Cards - Business card (color)
Customer Information Cards - Business card (greyscale)
Customer Information Cards - Quarter sheet (color)
Customer Information Cards - Quarter sheet (greyscale)
Store Signage
Print-ready store displays in a variety of sizes and placements.
Shelf Wobbler
Shelf Channel Strip
12x18 Poster
22x28 Poster
Social Media
Premade graphics and approved language to share directly with audiences.
Customer Communications
DHW will communicate with SNAP customers as the implementation date approaches beginning in January. Customers will receive information through a variety of channels, including:
- Text message reminders (for those who are opted in)
- Posters and lobby displays in DHW field offices
- Website updates and FAQs for customers
These efforts are designed to ensure customers are aware of the changes before they arrive at your store. Retailers can reinforce the message by using the SNAP Media and Print Toolkit materials provided on this page.