Apr 24, 2025
Understanding what can and cannot be bought with SNAP, previously known as food stamps, helps recipients spend their benefits wisely. Many wonder if fountain drinks qualify as an approved purchase.
Can I Buy Fountain Drinks with Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy fountain drinks with Food Stamps or SNAP.
Fountain drinks are considered a prepared food item, which is not eligible for purchase under SNAP guidelines. The program is designed to cover essential groceries and unprepared foods that can be taken home and cooked or prepared by the recipient. Since fountain drinks are typically ready-to-consume and often sold in restaurants or convenience stores, they fall outside the scope of allowable SNAP purchases.
How to Check If Fountain Drinks is SNAP-Eligible
To check if fountain drinks 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.
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 I Buy with SNAP?
While fountain drinks aren't eligible, 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 like fountain drinks that cannot be purchased with these benefits, including:
Alcoholic Beverages: Beer, wine, and liquor are strictly prohibited.
Household Supplies: Items like soap, paper products, and cleaning supplies are not covered.
Hot Foods: Foods that are hot at the point of sale, such as deli meals, are ineligible.
Vitamins and Supplements: Products labeled with "Supplement Facts" are not allowed.
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'll need to pay for it using another form of payment. This ensures that SNAP funds are only used for approved food items, helping recipients make the most of their benefits.
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 fountain drinks ever eligible for purchase with SNAP?
No, fountain drinks are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. They are considered prepared food items, which are not covered under SNAP guidelines.
2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy a fountain drink with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you attempt to buy a fountain drink. However, the item will not be covered, and you will need to pay for it using another form of payment.
3. Can I purchase a basket of groceries that includes a fountain drink with SNAP?
Yes, you can purchase a basket of groceries that includes a fountain drink, but the cost of the fountain drink will not be covered by SNAP. You will need to pay for the fountain drink separately.
4. Do SNAP eligibility rules for fountain drinks vary by state?
No, the eligibility rules for fountain drinks do not vary by state. Fountain drinks are universally considered ineligible for purchase with SNAP benefits across all states.
