Shopping with SNAP
May 4, 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 ground coffee qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Ground Coffee with EBT/ Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy ground coffee with Food Stamps or SNAP.
Ground coffee is considered a staple food item, which makes it eligible for purchase under SNAP guidelines. The program allows for the purchase of most food products intended for home consumption, and ground coffee falls into this category. This ensures that recipients can enjoy a basic, everyday beverage as part of their grocery shopping.
How to Check If Ground Coffee Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if ground coffee is 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 while shopping.
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 ground 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.
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.
Household Supplies: Items like soap, paper products, and cleaning supplies are excluded.
Vitamins and Supplements: Products with a "Supplement Facts" label are not covered.
Hot Prepared Foods: Foods that are hot at the point of sale, such as deli meals, 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 with the transaction.
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, eliminating the need for phone calls or checking receipts.
Additionally, you can earn cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, 7-Eleven, and many more. Learn more about Benny and start managing your benefits more effectively today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are there any specific brands of ground coffee that are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
No, all brands of ground coffee are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits as long as they are intended for home consumption. The eligibility is based on the product type, not the brand.
2. Can I buy flavored ground coffee with my EBT card?
Yes, flavored ground coffee is also eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. As long as the coffee is ground and intended for home consumption, it qualifies under SNAP guidelines.
3. Is there a limit to how much ground coffee I can buy with my SNAP benefits?
No, there is no specific limit on the amount of ground coffee you can purchase with your SNAP benefits. You can buy as much as your benefits allow, just like with any other eligible food item.
4. Can I buy ground coffee online with my EBT card?
Yes, you can buy ground coffee online with your EBT card from retailers that accept SNAP for online purchases. Make sure to check if the retailer participates in the SNAP Online Purchasing Pilot.
