Can You Buy a Lobster 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 lobster qualifies as an approved purchase.

Can You Buy a Lobster with EBT/ Food Stamps?

Yes, you can buy lobster with Food Stamps or SNAP.

Lobster is considered a food item, and SNAP benefits are designed to help recipients purchase groceries. As long as the lobster is not prepared or served hot, it qualifies as an eligible purchase under the program. This allows recipients to enjoy a variety of nutritious foods, including seafood, as part of their diet.

How to Check If a Lobster Is SNAP-Eligible

To check if lobster 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.

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 purchasing.

What Can You Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?

Besides lobster, 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.

• Snack Foods: Chips, ice cream, candy, and other snacks.

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 not eligible for purchase.

• Household Supplies: Items like cleaning products, paper goods, and pet food are excluded.

• Vitamins and Supplements: Products labeled with "Supplement Facts" are not covered.

• Hot Foods: Foods that are hot at the point of sale, such as deli meals, are ineligible.

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 cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits. You will need to use another form of payment or remove the item from your purchase to proceed. This ensures SNAP benefits are used correctly.

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 checking receipts.

Additionally, Benny offers cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. This helps you stretch your benefits further. Learn more about Benny and start managing your SNAP benefits more effectively today.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Where can I buy lobster with SNAP benefits?

You can buy lobster with SNAP benefits at any authorized retailer that sells seafood. This includes grocery stores, supermarkets, and some farmers' markets.

2. Are there any restrictions on the type of lobster I can buy with SNAP?

Yes, the lobster must be unprepared and not served hot. Fresh, frozen, or canned lobster is eligible, but prepared dishes like lobster rolls are not.

3. Does the eligibility of lobster vary by state?

No, the eligibility of lobster as a SNAP purchase does not vary by state. It is a federally regulated program, and the rules are consistent across all states.

4. Can I use SNAP benefits to buy lobster online?

Yes, you can use SNAP benefits to buy lobster online from participating retailers. Make sure the retailer accepts EBT payments and that the lobster is not prepared or served hot.