Apr 24, 2025
Understanding what can and cannot be bought with SNAP, previously known as Food Stamps, helps recipients use their benefits effectively. Many wonder if coffee is an eligible purchase.
Can I Buy Coffee with Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy coffee with Food Stamps or SNAP.
SNAP benefits cover coffee as long as it is not hot and ready to drink. This means you can purchase coffee beans, ground coffee, and instant coffee. However, prepared coffee from a coffee shop or convenience store is not eligible.
How to Check If Coffee is SNAP-Eligible
To check if coffee 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. For more details, visit the official USDA resource. If still unsure, ask the cashier or call your state SNAP hotline before purchasing.
What Can I Buy with SNAP?
Besides coffee, 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 I Not Buy with SNAP?
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 with a "Supplement Facts" label are excluded.
Prepared Foods: Hot foods and foods meant for immediate consumption are not covered.
Non-Food Items: Household supplies, pet foods, and hygiene products are ineligible.
What Happens If I Try to Buy an Ineligible Item with EBT?
If you try to buy an ineligible item with SNAP, the cashier or the checkout system will alert you. The item will not be covered by your SNAP benefits, and you will need to pay for it using another form of payment. This ensures that SNAP funds are only used for approved food items, helping to maintain the program's integrity.
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, helping you stay on top of your benefits.
Additionally, Benny lets you earn cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. Learn more about Benny and start managing your SNAP benefits more effectively today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are all types of coffee eligible for purchase with SNAP?
Not all types of coffee are eligible. You can buy coffee beans, ground coffee, and instant coffee, but hot, ready-to-drink coffee from a coffee shop or convenience store is not covered.
2. Can I buy coffee pods with my SNAP benefits?
Yes, coffee pods are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits as they are considered a form of ground coffee.
3. Does the rule on coffee eligibility vary by state?
No, the rule on coffee eligibility does not vary by state. The USDA sets the guidelines, and they apply uniformly across all states.
4. Can I buy coffee creamers and sweeteners with SNAP benefits?
Yes, coffee creamers and sweeteners are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits as they are considered food items.
