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 coffee creamer qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Coffee Creamer with EBT/ Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy coffee creamer with EBT or Food Stamps.
Coffee creamer is considered a food item under SNAP guidelines, making it eligible for purchase with EBT benefits. The program allows for the purchase of most food items intended for home consumption, and coffee creamer falls within this category. This inclusion helps recipients enjoy a wider variety of food and beverage options.
How to Check If Coffee Creamer Is SNAP-Eligible
To determine if an item is SNAP-eligible, check its label. If it has a "Nutrition Facts" label, it is likely eligible. Conversely, items with a "Supplement Facts" label are not eligible. Additionally, hot, prepared foods meant for immediate consumption are generally not SNAP-eligible. For example:
Frozen pizza: It has a "Nutrition Facts" label and is intended for home consumption. Therefore, it is SNAP-eligible.
Hot deli sandwich: It’s hot, prepared, and meant for immediate consumption. Therefore, it is not SNAP-eligible.
If in doubt, compare the product to USDA rules to determine SNAP eligibility.
Large chain stores often use small shelf labels or icons that say "SNAP Eligible" or "EBT Accepted." Websites of large chains like Walmart, Amazon, or delivery platforms like Instacart often let you filter by SNAP-eligible items. If still unsure, ask the shop assistant before making a purchase.
Surprising Things You Can Buy with EBT
Besides coffee creamer, 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 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 at checkout. 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. This ensures that SNAP benefits are used only for approved items.
Manage Your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Managing your SNAP benefits is easier with Benny. Our app lets you check your EBT balance and transactions in real-time, helping you stay on top of your spending. Plus, earn cash back on groceries and other purchases at popular stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. Download Benny to start saving on your EBT benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Limit on How Much Coffee Creamer You Can Buy with EBT?
There is no specific limit on the amount of coffee creamer you can purchase with EBT benefits. As long as the coffee creamer is intended for home consumption and has a "Nutrition Facts" label, you can buy as much as your SNAP benefits allow.
Can You Buy Flavored Coffee Creamer with EBT?
Yes, flavored coffee creamers are eligible for purchase with EBT benefits. Whether it's vanilla, hazelnut, or any other flavor, as long as the coffee creamer has a "Nutrition Facts" label, it qualifies under SNAP guidelines.
Are Powdered and Liquid Coffee Creamers Both Eligible for Purchase with EBT?
Both powdered and liquid coffee creamers are eligible for purchase with EBT benefits. The form of the coffee creamer does not affect its eligibility as long as it is intended for home consumption and has a "Nutrition Facts" label.
Can You Buy Non-Dairy Coffee Creamer with EBT?
Non-dairy coffee creamers are also eligible for purchase with EBT benefits. These creamers, often made from plant-based ingredients, qualify under SNAP guidelines as long as they have a "Nutrition Facts" label and are intended for home consumption.
