Can You Buy a Steak 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 steak qualifies as an approved purchase.

Can You Buy a Steak with EBT/ Food Stamps?

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

Steak is considered a staple food item, which makes it eligible for purchase under SNAP guidelines. The program allows recipients to buy most meats, including steak, as long as they are not hot or prepared foods meant for immediate consumption.

How to Check If a Steak Is SNAP-Eligible

To check if a steak 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 steak, 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.

• 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.

• Vitamins and Supplements: Items labeled with "Supplement Facts" are excluded.

• Hot Foods: Foods meant for immediate consumption, such as deli meals.

• Non-Food Items: Household supplies, pet food, 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 can be easier with Benny. Our app allows you to check your EBT balance and transactions instantly, ensuring you always know where you stand.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are all types of steak eligible for purchase with SNAP?

Yes, all types of steak are eligible for purchase with SNAP as long as they are not hot or prepared foods meant for immediate consumption. This includes fresh, frozen, and packaged steaks.

2. Can I buy marinated or pre-seasoned steak with SNAP benefits?

Yes, you can buy marinated or pre-seasoned steak with SNAP benefits. As long as the steak is not hot or prepared for immediate consumption, it qualifies under SNAP guidelines.

3. Does the eligibility of steak vary by state?

No, the eligibility of steak does not vary by state. SNAP is a federal program, and the rules regarding eligible food items, including steak, are consistent across all states.

4. Can I use SNAP benefits to buy steak from a butcher shop?

Yes, you can use SNAP benefits to buy steak from a butcher shop. As long as the butcher shop is an authorized SNAP retailer, you can purchase eligible food items, including steak, with your EBT card.