Can You Buy Restaurant Food with EBT/Food Stamps? (2025)

Understanding what can and cannot be bought with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps recipients use their benefits effectively. Many wonder if restaurant food is an eligible purchase, especially since SNAP was previously known as Food Stamps.

Can You Buy Restaurant Food with EBT/ Food Stamps?

No, you cannot buy restaurant food with Food Stamps or EBT.

Restaurant food is not eligible under SNAP because the program is designed to help low-income households purchase groceries to prepare meals at home. The goal is to ensure that recipients have access to nutritious food that can be stored and cooked, promoting healthier eating habits and better use of benefits.

How to Check If Restaurant Food Is SNAP-Eligible

To check if restaurant 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.

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 restaurant 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 restaurant food 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.

• Vitamins and Supplements: Products labeled with "Supplement Facts" 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 payment 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. This ensures that SNAP benefits are used only for eligible food items.

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 offers cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, 7-Eleven, and many more. Start managing your benefits more effectively and earn cash back by learning more about Benny today.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are there any exceptions to the rule that restaurant food is not eligible for purchase with SNAP?

Yes, some states have a Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) that allows certain SNAP recipients, such as the elderly, disabled, and homeless, to buy restaurant meals. Check with your local SNAP office to see if your state participates in RMP.

2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy restaurant food with SNAP?

No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you attempt to buy restaurant food. However, the transaction will be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment or remove the item from your purchase.

3. Are baskets containing restaurant food eligible for purchase with SNAP?

No, if a basket contains restaurant food, the entire basket is not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. You will need to separate the ineligible items and pay for them with another form of payment.

4. How can I find out if my state allows the purchase of restaurant food with SNAP benefits?

To find out if your state allows the purchase of restaurant food with SNAP benefits, contact your local SNAP office or visit their website. They can provide information on whether your state participates in the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP).