Shopping with SNAP
Apr 24, 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 hot coffee qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Hot Coffee with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy hot coffee with Food Stamps or EBT.
This is because SNAP benefits are intended for purchasing food items that can be prepared and eaten at home. Hot, ready-to-eat foods and beverages, such as hot coffee, are considered prepared foods and are therefore not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
How to Check If Hot Coffee 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, items with a "Supplement Facts" label are not eligible. Additionally, hot, prepared foods meant for immediate consumption are generally not SNAP-eligible. For example:
Packaged bread: It has a "Nutrition Facts" label and is intended for home consumption. Therefore, it is SNAP-eligible.
Hot soup: 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.
What Else Can You Not Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?
While SNAP benefits cover a wide range of essential food items, there are products like hot coffee that cannot be purchased with these benefits, including:
Alcoholic Beverages: Beer, wine, and other alcoholic drinks are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
Vitamins and Supplements: Items with a "Supplement Facts" label, such as vitamins and dietary supplements, are not covered.
Non-Food Items: Household supplies, pet foods, and other non-food products are not eligible for purchase.
Prepared Foods: Hot foods and foods meant for immediate consumption, like deli meals, are not covered by SNAP benefits.
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 point-of-sale 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.
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Benny is a great option for managing 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 exceptions to the rule that hot coffee is not SNAP-eligible?
Generally, hot coffee is not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. However, if the coffee is sold cold or at room temperature and is not intended for immediate consumption, it may be eligible. Always check the label and store policies to be sure.
Can you buy a basket of groceries with hot coffee included using SNAP benefits?
No, if your basket includes hot coffee, the entire purchase will not be eligible for SNAP benefits. You will need to remove the hot coffee or pay for it separately using another form of payment.
Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy hot coffee with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you attempt to buy hot coffee. The transaction will simply be declined at checkout, and you will need to use another form of payment or remove the hot coffee from your purchase.
Does the rule about hot coffee's SNAP eligibility vary by state?
No, the rule about hot coffee's SNAP eligibility does not vary by state. SNAP is a federal program, and its guidelines are consistent across all states. Hot coffee is generally not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
