Can You Buy Hot Meals with EBT/Food Stamps? (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 meals qualify as an approved purchase.

Can You Buy Hot Meals with EBT/ Food Stamps?

No, you cannot buy hot meals with Food Stamps or EBT.

The reason hot meals are not eligible under SNAP is that the program is designed to provide assistance for purchasing groceries that can be prepared at home. This restriction helps ensure that benefits are used for more cost-effective, nutritious options that can be stored and consumed over time, rather than on immediate, ready-to-eat meals.

How to Check If Hot Meals Is SNAP-Eligible

To check if hot meals 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.

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?

While hot meals 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 You Not Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?

While SNAP benefits cover a wide range of essential food items, there are products like hot meals that cannot be purchased with these benefits, including:

• Alcoholic Beverages: Beer, wine, and liquor are strictly prohibited.

• Vitamins and Supplements: Items labeled with "Supplement Facts" are not eligible.

• Non-Food Items: Household supplies, pet foods, and hygiene products are excluded.

• Prepared Foods: Foods that are ready to eat or require minimal preparation.

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 specific item. The cashier or the self-checkout system will notify you that the item is not covered by SNAP benefits. You will need to pay for the ineligible item using another form of payment, such as cash or a credit card.

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 without hassle.

Additionally, Benny offers cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, 7-Eleven, and many more. This means you can stretch your benefits further while shopping at your favorite stores.

Learn more about how Benny can help you manage your SNAP benefits effectively by visiting Benny today.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are there any exceptions to the rule that hot meals are not eligible for purchase with SNAP?

Yes, some states have Restaurant Meals Programs (RMP) that allow certain SNAP recipients, such as the elderly, disabled, or homeless, to buy hot meals at participating restaurants.

2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy hot meals with SNAP?

No, your EBT benefits will not be halted. However, the transaction for the hot meal will be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment.

3. Can I purchase a basket of groceries that includes a hot meal with SNAP?

No, if your basket contains a hot meal, the cost of the hot meal will not be covered by SNAP. You will need to pay for the hot meal separately using another form of payment.

4. How can I find out if my state has a Restaurant Meals Program (RMP)?

You can check with your local SNAP office or visit your state's SNAP website to see if they participate in the Restaurant Meals Program.