Can You Buy Donuts 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. Many wonder if donuts, a popular treat, are an eligible purchase.

Can You Buy Donuts with EBT/ Food Stamps?

Yes, you can buy donuts with Food Stamps or SNAP.

Donuts are considered a staple food item under SNAP guidelines, which means they fall under the category of eligible food purchases. As long as the donuts are not sold hot or prepared for immediate consumption, they can be bought using EBT benefits. This includes packaged donuts from grocery stores and bakeries.

How to Check If Donuts Is SNAP-Eligible

To check if donuts are 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 by visiting the official resource. If still unsure, ask the cashier or call your state SNAP hotline before making a purchase.

What Can You Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?

Besides donuts, 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 You Not Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?

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 or foods meant for immediate consumption are not covered.

• Non-Food Items: Household supplies, pet foods, and hygiene products are ineligible.

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 item. 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 to proceed. This ensures SNAP benefits are used correctly.

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 instantly, eliminating the need for phone calls or checking receipts.

Additionally, Benny offers cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, 7-Eleven, and many more. Learn more about how Benny can help you manage your SNAP benefits effectively by visiting Benny.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are all types of donuts eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?

Not all types of donuts are eligible. Only packaged donuts that are not sold hot or prepared for immediate consumption can be bought with SNAP benefits.

2. Can I buy donuts from a bakery with my EBT card?

Yes, you can buy donuts from a bakery as long as they are not hot or prepared for immediate consumption. Packaged donuts are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.

3. Do SNAP eligibility rules for donuts vary by state?

No, SNAP eligibility rules for donuts do not vary by state. The federal guidelines apply uniformly, allowing the purchase of packaged donuts that are not hot or prepared for immediate consumption.

4. Can I use my EBT card to buy a box of assorted donuts?

Yes, you can use your EBT card to buy a box of assorted donuts as long as they are packaged and not intended for immediate consumption. This includes boxes from grocery stores and bakeries.