Shopping with SNAP
May 4, 2025
Understanding what can and cannot be bought with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, previously known as food stamps, helps recipients spend their benefits wisely. Many recipients may wonder whether prepared food is an eligible purchase.
Can You Buy Prepared Food with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy prepared food with Food Stamps or EBT.
The reason is that SNAP benefits are intended to help low-income households purchase groceries to prepare meals at home. Prepared foods, such as those from delis or restaurants, are considered ready-to-eat and do not fall under the program's guidelines. This restriction ensures that benefits are used for essential, unprepared food items that can be stored and cooked at home.
How to Check If Prepared Food Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if prepared food 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 while shopping.
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 prepared food 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 prepared food that cannot be purchased with these benefits, including:
Alcoholic Beverages: Beer, wine, and liquor are not eligible.
Vitamins and Supplements: Items with a "Supplement Facts" label are excluded.
Non-Food Items: Household supplies, pet food, and hygiene products are not covered.
Hot Foods: Foods that are hot at the point of sale 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 at checkout. The cashier or the point-of-sale 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 complete 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. Learn more about how Benny can help you manage your SNAP benefits effectively by visiting Benny.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are there any exceptions to the rule that prepared food is not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
Generally, prepared food is not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. However, some states have Restaurant Meals Programs (RMP) that allow certain SNAP recipients, such as the elderly, disabled, or homeless, to buy prepared meals at approved restaurants.
2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy prepared food with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you attempt to buy prepared food. The transaction will simply be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment or remove the item from your purchase.
3. Are baskets containing prepared food eligible for purchase with SNAP?
No, baskets containing prepared food are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. You will need to separate the eligible items from the ineligible prepared food items at checkout.
4. Do the rules regarding the eligibility of prepared food for SNAP benefits vary by state?
Yes, the rules can vary by state, especially in states that participate in the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP). It's important to check with your local SNAP office to understand the specific guidelines in your area.
