Apr 24, 2025
Understanding what can and cannot be bought with SNAP, previously known as Food Stamps, helps recipients use their benefits effectively. Many wonder if pop is an eligible purchase.
Can I Buy Pop with Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy pop with Food Stamps or SNAP.
Pop is considered a non-alcoholic beverage, which falls under the category of eligible food items. SNAP benefits are designed to help recipients purchase food and beverages for home consumption, and pop fits within these guidelines.
How to Check If Pop is SNAP-Eligible
To check if pop 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 easy 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 I Buy with SNAP?
Besides pop, 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 I Not Buy with SNAP?
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 soap, paper products, and cleaning supplies are excluded.
Vitamins and Supplements: Products labeled with "Supplement Facts" are not covered.
Hot Foods: Foods that are hot at the point of sale, such as deli meals, are ineligible.
What Happens If I Try to Buy an Ineligible Item with EBT?
If you try to buy an ineligible item with SNAP, 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 your EBT card. You will need to use another form of payment or remove the item from your purchase. This ensures SNAP benefits are used only for eligible items.
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.
Additionally, Benny lets you earn cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. Learn more about Benny and start managing your SNAP benefits more effectively today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are there any restrictions on the type of pop I can buy with SNAP?
Generally, all types of pop are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits, as long as they are non-alcoholic beverages. This includes regular, diet, and caffeine-free varieties.
2. Can I buy pop in bulk with my SNAP benefits?
Yes, you can buy pop in bulk with SNAP benefits. Whether you purchase single cans or cases, as long as the pop is for home consumption, it is eligible.
3. Are there any state-specific rules regarding buying pop with SNAP?
No, the eligibility of pop for purchase with SNAP benefits is consistent across all states. Pop is considered a non-alcoholic beverage and is universally eligible under federal SNAP guidelines.
4. Can I use SNAP benefits to buy pop at any store?
Yes, you can use SNAP benefits to buy pop at any store that accepts EBT payments. This includes major grocery chains, convenience stores, and some farmers' markets.
