Shopping with SNAP
May 4, 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 margarita mix qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Margarita Mix with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy margarita mix with Food Stamps or EBT.
The reason is that margarita mix is classified as an alcoholic beverage or a product intended for making alcoholic drinks. SNAP benefits are strictly for purchasing food items that provide nutritional value, and alcoholic beverages or their mixers do not fall under this category. Therefore, they are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
How to Check If Margarita Mix Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if margarita mix 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?
While margarita mix 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 You Not Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?
While SNAP benefits cover a wide range of essential food items, there are products like margarita mix that cannot be purchased with these benefits, including:
Alcoholic Beverages: Beer, wine, and other spirits are not eligible.
Hot Prepared Foods: Items meant for immediate consumption, such as deli meals.
Non-Food Items: Household supplies, pet food, and personal care products.
Vitamins and Supplements: Products labeled with "Supplement Facts" are excluded.
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 transaction.
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, eliminating the need for phone calls or checking receipts.
Additionally, Benny offers cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, 7-Eleven, and many more. This makes it simpler to save money while shopping. Learn more about Benny and start managing your SNAP benefits more effectively today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does the rule on margarita mix's SNAP eligibility vary by state?
No, the rule does not vary by state. Margarita mix is classified as a product intended for making alcoholic drinks, which is universally ineligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy margarita mix with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted. However, the transaction for the margarita mix will be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment or remove the item from your purchase.
3. Are baskets containing margarita mix eligible for purchase with SNAP?
No, baskets containing margarita mix are not eligible for purchase with SNAP. Any item within the basket that is intended for making alcoholic drinks disqualifies the entire basket from being purchased with SNAP benefits.
4. Can I buy non-alcoholic margarita mix with SNAP benefits?
No, even non-alcoholic margarita mix is not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. It is still considered a mixer for alcoholic beverages and does not meet the nutritional criteria set by SNAP.
