Apr 24, 2025
Understanding what can and cannot be bought with SNAP, previously known as Food Stamps, helps recipients use their benefits effectively. Many wonder if hot coffee is an eligible purchase.
Can I Buy Hot Coffee with Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy hot coffee with Food Stamps or SNAP.
The reason is that SNAP benefits are intended for purchasing food items that can be prepared and eaten at home. Hot, ready-to-eat foods and beverages, like 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 check if hot 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.
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 I Buy with SNAP?
While hot coffee isn'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 hot coffee that cannot be purchased with these benefits, including:
Alcoholic Beverages: Beer, wine, and liquor are not eligible.
Vitamins and Supplements: Items with a "Supplement Facts" label are excluded.
Prepared Foods: Hot foods and foods meant for immediate consumption.
Non-Food Items: Household supplies, pet foods, and hygiene products.
What Happens If I Try to Buy an Ineligible Item with EBT?
If you try to buy an ineligible item with SNAP, 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 your EBT card. You will need to use another form of payment or remove the item from your purchase. This ensures SNAP benefits are used only for eligible items.
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 there any exceptions to the rule that hot coffee cannot be purchased with SNAP?
No, there are no exceptions. Hot coffee is considered a prepared food and is not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits under any circumstances.
2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy hot coffee with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted. The transaction will simply be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment or remove the item from your purchase.
3. Can I buy a basket of groceries that includes hot coffee with SNAP?
No, if your basket contains hot coffee, you will need to remove it or pay for it separately using another form of payment. Only eligible items can be purchased with SNAP benefits.
4. Can I buy cold coffee with SNAP benefits?
Yes, cold coffee that is not prepared and ready-to-eat is eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. Make sure it is labeled with a "Nutrition Facts" panel.
