Can You Buy a Hot Chocolate with EBT/Food Stamps? (2025)

Understanding what can and cannot be bought with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps recipients spend their benefits wisely. A common question is whether hot chocolate qualifies as an approved purchase.

Can You Buy a Hot Chocolate with EBT/ Food Stamps?

Yes, you can buy hot chocolate with Food Stamps or SNAP.

Hot chocolate is considered a grocery item, which makes it eligible for purchase under SNAP guidelines. As long as the hot chocolate is not sold as a prepared, ready-to-drink beverage from a restaurant or café, it qualifies for SNAP benefits. This includes powdered mixes and pre-packaged liquid forms found in grocery stores.

How to Check If a Hot Chocolate Is SNAP-Eligible

To check if hot chocolate is SNAP-eligible, look for “EBT/SNAP eligible” shelf tags or icons on retailer websites. Most major grocers label qualifying foods, making it easier to identify eligible items while shopping.

Additionally, compare the product to USDA rules by visiting the official resource. If still unsure, ask the cashier or call your state SNAP hotline before making a purchase.

What Can You Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?

Besides hot chocolate, you might be surprised to know that SNAP benefits cover many of these items:

• Plants: Vegetable seeds, fruit plants, and starters used to grow food at home.

• Farmers’ Markets: Eligible at many markets, often via tokens or electronic payments.

• Energy Drinks: Eligible if labeled with a "Nutrition Facts" panel (not "Supplement Facts").

• Bakery Items and Birthday Cakes: Decorated birthday cakes and baked goods.

• Seafood and Fresh Meat: Fresh, frozen, or canned seafood and meats.

What Can You Not Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?

While SNAP benefits cover a wide range of essential food items, there are products that cannot be purchased with these benefits, including:

• Alcoholic Beverages: Beer, wine, and liquor are strictly prohibited.

• Vitamins and Supplements: Items labeled with "Supplement Facts" are not eligible.

• Prepared Foods: Hot foods and foods meant for immediate consumption.

• Non-Food Items: Household supplies, pet foods, and hygiene products.

What Happens If You Try to Buy an Ineligible Item with an EBT Card?

If you try to buy an ineligible item with your EBT card, the transaction will be declined for that specific item. The cashier or the self-checkout system will notify you that the item is not covered by SNAP benefits. You will need to pay for the ineligible item with another form of payment or remove it from your purchase.

Manage Your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny

Managing your SNAP benefits is easier with Benny. Our app allows you to check your EBT balance and transactions instantly, eliminating the need for phone calls or receipts.

Additionally, Benny offers cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, 7-Eleven, and many more. Learn more about how Benny can help you manage your SNAP benefits more effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Where can I buy hot chocolate with SNAP benefits?

You can buy hot chocolate at any grocery store or retailer that accepts EBT cards, as long as the hot chocolate is not sold as a prepared, ready-to-drink beverage from a restaurant or café.

2. Are there any specific brands of hot chocolate that are SNAP-eligible?

Most brands of hot chocolate, including powdered mixes and pre-packaged liquid forms, are SNAP-eligible. Always check for “EBT/SNAP eligible” shelf tags or icons on retailer websites to be sure.

3. Can I buy hot chocolate from an online retailer with my EBT card?

Yes, you can buy hot chocolate from online retailers that accept EBT payments. Make sure the retailer is approved for SNAP online purchasing.

4. Does the eligibility of hot chocolate vary by state?

No, the eligibility of hot chocolate does not vary by state. As long as it is not a prepared, ready-to-drink beverage, it is eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits nationwide.