Shopping with SNAP
May 4, 2025
Understanding what can and cannot be bought with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps recipients use their benefits effectively. Many wonder if iced coffee is an eligible purchase under SNAP, previously known as food stamps.
Can You Buy Iced Coffee with EBT/ Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy iced coffee with Food Stamps or SNAP.
Iced coffee is considered a food item, making it eligible for purchase under SNAP. As long as the iced coffee is not hot and is intended for home consumption, it qualifies. This includes bottled or canned iced coffee found in grocery stores.
How to Check If Iced Coffee Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if iced 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 You Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?
Besides iced 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 cleaning products, paper goods, and pet food are excluded.
Hot Foods: Foods that are hot at the point of sale, such as deli meals, are not covered.
Vitamins and Supplements: Products labeled with "Supplement Facts" 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 checkout.
Manage Your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Managing your SNAP benefits is 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, Benny helps you earn cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. Learn more about how Benny can help you manage your SNAP benefits more effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are all types of iced coffee eligible for purchase with SNAP?
Yes, as long as the iced coffee is not hot and is intended for home consumption, it is eligible for purchase with SNAP. This includes bottled or canned iced coffee found in grocery stores.
2. Can I buy iced coffee from a coffee shop with my EBT card?
No, iced coffee purchased from a coffee shop is not eligible for SNAP benefits. SNAP benefits are intended for grocery items meant for home consumption.
3. Does the eligibility of iced coffee vary by state?
No, the eligibility of iced coffee under SNAP does not vary by state. The USDA sets the guidelines, and iced coffee intended for home consumption is universally eligible.
4. Can I use my EBT card to buy iced coffee online?
Yes, you can use your EBT card to buy iced coffee online from retailers that accept SNAP benefits. Make sure the retailer is authorized to accept EBT for online purchases.
