Can You Buy Cooking Oil 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 cooking oil qualifies as an approved purchase.

Can You Buy Cooking Oil with EBT/ Food Stamps?

Yes, you can buy cooking oil with EBT or Food Stamps.

Cooking oil is considered a staple food item under SNAP guidelines. It is categorized as an essential ingredient used in meal preparation, making it eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. This inclusion helps ensure that recipients can prepare nutritious meals at home, supporting overall food security and well-being.

How to Check If Cooking Oil 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 vegetables: They have a "Nutrition Facts" label and are intended for home consumption. Therefore, they are SNAP-eligible.

• Hot deli pizza: 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 cooking oil, 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 for the ineligible item or remove it 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 allows you to 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 the type or brand of cooking oil you can buy with SNAP benefits?

No, there is no limit on the type or brand of cooking oil you can buy with SNAP benefits. Whether you prefer olive oil, canola oil, vegetable oil, or any other type, all are eligible as long as they are intended for home consumption and have a "Nutrition Facts" label.

Can you buy cooking spray with SNAP benefits?

Yes, cooking spray is eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. Like other cooking oils, cooking sprays are considered essential for meal preparation and have a "Nutrition Facts" label, making them SNAP-eligible.

Are flavored or infused cooking oils eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?

Yes, flavored or infused cooking oils are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. These oils, such as garlic-infused olive oil or chili oil, are considered food items and have a "Nutrition Facts" label, making them eligible under SNAP guidelines.

Can you buy cooking oil in bulk with SNAP benefits?

Yes, you can buy cooking oil in bulk with SNAP benefits. Whether you purchase a small bottle or a large container, as long as the cooking oil is intended for home consumption and has a "Nutrition Facts" label, it is eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.