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 food qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Hot Food with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy hot food with Food Stamps or EBT.
This restriction exists because SNAP benefits are intended to help low-income households purchase groceries to prepare meals at home. Hot, ready-to-eat foods are considered prepared meals, which fall outside the program's guidelines. The aim is to encourage recipients to buy ingredients and cook nutritious meals themselves, promoting better dietary habits and cost-effective spending.
How to Check If Hot Food Is SNAP-Eligible
To determine if an item is SNAP-eligible, check its label. If it 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:
Frozen vegetables: They have a "Nutrition Facts" label and are intended for home consumption. Therefore, they are SNAP-eligible.
Hot pizza: 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.
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 food that cannot be purchased with these benefits, including:
Alcoholic Beverages: Beer, wine, and other alcoholic drinks are strictly prohibited under SNAP guidelines.
Vitamins and Supplements: Items with a "Supplement Facts" label, such as vitamins and dietary supplements, are not eligible for purchase.
Non-Food Items: Household supplies, pet food, and other non-food products cannot be bought with SNAP benefits.
Prepared Foods: Foods that are hot at the point of sale or meant for immediate consumption are not covered.
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 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 complete the transaction.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any exceptions to the rule that hot food is not SNAP-eligible?
Yes, there are exceptions. Some states participate in the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP), which allows certain SNAP recipients, such as the elderly, disabled, and homeless, to purchase hot meals at approved restaurants. Check with your local SNAP office to see if your state offers this program.
Can I use my EBT card to buy a basket of groceries that includes hot food?
No, if your basket contains hot food, the hot items will need to be removed or paid for separately with another form of payment. The EBT system will automatically decline the purchase of any hot, prepared foods.
Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy hot food?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you attempt to buy hot food. The transaction will simply be declined at the point of sale, and you will need to use another form of payment or remove the hot food from your purchase.
Do SNAP rules about hot food vary by state?
Yes, while the general rule is that hot food is not SNAP-eligible, some states have additional programs like the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) that allow certain recipients to buy hot meals. Always check with your local SNAP office for specific state guidelines.
