Can You Buy Deli Meat with EBT/Food Stamps? (2025)

Understanding what you can and cannot buy with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps recipients spend their benefits wisely. A common question is whether deli meat qualifies as an approved purchase.

Can You Buy Deli Meat with EBT/ Food Stamps?

Yes, you can buy deli meat with EBT or Food Stamps.

Deli meat is eligible under SNAP because it is considered a staple food item. As long as the deli meat is cold and not prepared or heated, it qualifies for purchase with EBT benefits. This allows recipients to include a variety of protein options in their diet, ensuring balanced nutrition.

How to Check If Deli Meat Is SNAP-Eligible

To determine if an item is SNAP-eligible, check its label. If the item has a "Nutrition Facts" label, it is likely eligible. Conversely, if it has a "Supplement Facts" label, it is not eligible. Additionally, items that are hot, prepared, and meant for immediate consumption are generally not SNAP-eligible. For example:

• Packaged cheese: It has a "Nutrition Facts" label and is cold and packaged 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 deli meat, 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

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 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

Are there any restrictions on the type of deli meat you can buy with EBT?

Yes, there are restrictions. Deli meat must be cold and not prepared or heated to be eligible for purchase with EBT. Hot or ready-to-eat deli meats do not qualify under SNAP guidelines.

Can you buy pre-packaged deli meat with EBT?

Yes, pre-packaged deli meat is eligible for purchase with EBT. As long as it is cold and has a "Nutrition Facts" label, it qualifies under SNAP rules.

Is there a limit on how much deli meat you can buy with EBT?

No, there is no specific limit on the amount of deli meat you can buy with EBT. However, you must stay within your available SNAP benefits balance when making purchases.

Does the eligibility of deli meat vary by state?

No, the eligibility of deli meat under SNAP does not vary by state. The federal guidelines apply uniformly across all states, allowing cold, unprepared deli meat to be purchased with EBT benefits.