Shopping with SNAP
May 4, 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 bakery cakes qualify as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Bakery Cakes with EBT/ Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy bakery cakes with Food Stamps or SNAP.
Bakery cakes are eligible because they are considered a food item. However, there are some restrictions. The cake must be intended for human consumption and not exceed 50% of non-edible decorations. This ensures that the primary purpose of the purchase is for food, aligning with SNAP's guidelines to support nutritional needs.
How to Check If Bakery Cakes Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if bakery cakes are 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 making a purchase.
What Can You Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?
Besides bakery cakes, 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").
Seafood and Fresh Meat: Fresh, frozen, or canned seafood and meats.
Snack Foods: Chips, ice cream, candy, and other snacks.
Special Dietary Foods: Gluten-free, diabetic-friendly, and allergen-free foods.
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 soap, paper products, and cleaning supplies 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 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 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 using another form of payment, such as cash or a credit card.
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, 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. 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 there any restrictions on the type of bakery cakes you can buy with SNAP?
Yes, the cake must be intended for human consumption and not exceed 50% of non-edible decorations. This ensures the primary purpose of the purchase is for food.
2. Do bakery cakes need to be labeled in a specific way to be eligible for SNAP?
Most major grocers label qualifying foods with “EBT/SNAP eligible” shelf tags or icons. This makes it easier to identify eligible items when shopping.
3. Can you buy custom-decorated cakes with SNAP benefits?
Yes, as long as the custom decorations do not make up more than 50% of the cake. The primary purpose must still be for food consumption.
4. Does the eligibility of bakery cakes for SNAP benefits vary by state?
No, the eligibility criteria for bakery cakes are set by federal guidelines and do not vary by state. However, always check with your local retailer for specific labeling.
