Can You Buy Meat 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 meat qualifies as an approved purchase.

Can You Buy Meat with EBT/ Food Stamps?

Yes, you can buy meat with Food Stamps or SNAP.

Meat is considered a staple food item, which makes it eligible for purchase under the SNAP program. The goal of SNAP is to ensure recipients have access to nutritious foods, and meat provides essential proteins and nutrients necessary for a balanced diet.

How to Check If Meat Is SNAP-Eligible

To check if meat is SNAP-eligible, look for “EBT/SNAP eligible” shelf tags in stores 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 meat, 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.

• Snack Foods: Chips, ice cream, candy, and other snacks.

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: Prepared foods meant for immediate consumption, 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 specific 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.

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, 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, and 7-Eleven. This means you can save more while shopping for essentials.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are all types of meat eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?

Yes, all types of meat, including beef, chicken, pork, and fish, are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits as long as they are not hot or prepared foods meant for immediate consumption.

2. Can you buy organic or specialty meats with SNAP benefits?

Yes, you can buy organic or specialty meats with SNAP benefits. The program covers a wide range of meat products, including organic and grass-fed options.

3. Are there any restrictions on the quantity of meat you can buy with SNAP benefits?

No, there are no restrictions on the quantity of meat you can buy with SNAP benefits. You can purchase as much meat as your benefits allow.

4. Do SNAP eligibility rules for meat vary by state?

No, SNAP eligibility rules for meat do not vary by state. The program is federally regulated, ensuring uniform guidelines across all states.