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. Many wonder if coffee, a common household item, is an eligible purchase.
Can You Buy Coffee with EBT/ Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy coffee with EBT or Food Stamps.
Coffee is considered a food item, making it eligible for purchase under SNAP guidelines. This includes both ground coffee and coffee beans, as long as they are not hot and ready to drink at the point of sale. The program aims to provide essential food items, and coffee falls within this category, allowing recipients to include it in their grocery shopping.
How to Check If Coffee 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, if the item is hot, prepared, and meant for immediate consumption, it is likely not SNAP-eligible. For example:
Packaged bread: It has a "Nutrition Facts" label and is intended for home consumption. Therefore, it is SNAP-eligible.
Hot soup from a deli: 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.
Additionally, 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, 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 are eligible, encouraging self-sufficiency and home gardening.
Farmers’ Markets: Many markets accept SNAP benefits, often via tokens or electronic payments, providing access to fresh, local produce.
Energy Drinks: If labeled with a "Nutrition Facts" panel (not "Supplement Facts"), these beverages are eligible for purchase.
Bakery Items and Birthday Cakes: Decorated birthday cakes and baked goods are covered, allowing for special celebrations.
Seafood and Fresh Meat: Fresh, frozen, or canned seafood and meats are eligible, ensuring access to protein-rich foods.
Snack Foods: Chips, ice cream, candy, and other snacks are also covered, providing a variety of options for recipients.
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 can either remove the item from your purchase or pay for it using another form of payment. This ensures that SNAP benefits are used only for eligible items.
Manage Your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Benny is a great option to manage your SNAP benefits effectively. With Benny, you can check your EBT balance and transactions in real-time, helping you stay on top of your EBT spending. Plus, you can earn cash back on groceries and other purchases at popular stores such as Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven.
Download Benny to start saving on your EBT benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cold Brew Coffee Eligible for Purchase with SNAP?
Yes, cold brew coffee is eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits as long as it is not hot and ready to drink at the point of sale. This includes bottled cold brew coffee found in grocery stores.
Can You Buy Coffee Pods with EBT?
Yes, coffee pods are eligible for purchase with EBT. Since they are considered a food item and are not hot or prepared for immediate consumption, they fall under SNAP guidelines.
Are Coffee Creamers Covered by SNAP Benefits?
Yes, coffee creamers are covered by SNAP benefits. As long as the creamer has a "Nutrition Facts" label, it is considered a food item and is eligible for purchase.
Can You Buy Coffee Filters with EBT?
No, coffee filters are not eligible for purchase with EBT. SNAP benefits are intended for food items only, and coffee filters are considered a non-food item.
