Shopping with SNAP
Apr 24, 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 soda qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy a Soda with EBT/ Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy soda with Food Stamps or SNAP.
Soda is considered a food item under SNAP guidelines, making it eligible for purchase. The program allows recipients to buy most food and beverage products intended for human consumption, including sugary drinks like soda. This flexibility helps ensure that individuals and families can make their own choices about what to include in their diets.
How to Check If a Soda Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if a soda is SNAP-eligible, look for “EBT/SNAP eligible” shelf tags or icons on retailer websites. Most major grocers label qualifying foods, making it easy 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 soda, 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 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 Prepared Foods: Meals that are hot at the point of sale, such as those from deli counters.
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 with the transaction.
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 receipt checks.
With Benny, you can also earn cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, 7-Eleven, and many more. This makes managing your benefits more effective and rewarding.
Learn more about how Benny can help you by visiting Benny today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are there any restrictions on the types of soda you can buy with SNAP benefits?
Generally, all types of soda are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits as long as they are intended for human consumption. This includes regular, diet, and flavored sodas.
2. Can you buy soda in bulk with SNAP benefits?
Yes, you can buy soda in bulk with SNAP benefits. There are no restrictions on the quantity of soda you can purchase as long as it is for personal consumption.
3. Do SNAP benefits cover soda purchases at all retailers?
Most major retailers that accept SNAP benefits will allow you to purchase soda. However, it's always a good idea to check with the specific store if you have any doubts.
4. Are there any states where soda is not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
No, soda is considered a food item under federal SNAP guidelines and is eligible for purchase in all states. There are no state-specific restrictions on buying soda with SNAP benefits.
