Can You Buy Snacks 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 snacks qualify as an approved purchase.

Can You Buy Snacks with EBT/ Food Stamps?

Yes, you can buy snacks with EBT or Food Stamps.

Snacks are considered eligible food items under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) because they fall under the category of foods intended for home consumption. This includes items like chips, cookies, and other packaged snacks. The program aims to provide recipients with the flexibility to purchase a variety of foods to meet their nutritional needs.

How to Check If Snacks Is SNAP-Eligible

To determine if a snack is SNAP-eligible, check its label. If the item has a "Nutrition Facts" label, it is likely eligible. Conversely, if it has a "Supplement Facts" label, it is not. Additionally, hot, prepared foods meant for immediate consumption are generally not eligible. For example:

• Bag of chips: It has a "Nutrition Facts" label and is intended for home consumption. Therefore, it is SNAP-eligible.

• Hot pizza slice: It’s hot, prepared, and meant for immediate consumption. Therefore, it is not SNAP-eligible.

If in doubt, compare the item to USDA rules to determine SNAP eligibility.

Large chain stores often use small shelf labels or icons that say "SNAP Eligible" or "EBT Accepted." Websites of large chains like Walmart, Amazon, or delivery platforms like Instacart often let you filter by SNAP-eligible items. If still unsure, ask the shop assistant before making a purchase.

Surprising Things You Can Buy with EBT

Besides snacks, 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.

• Special Dietary Foods: Gluten-free, diabetic-friendly, and allergen-free foods.

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 is not covered by SNAP benefits. You can either remove the item from your purchase or pay for it using another form of payment. This ensures that only eligible items are bought with SNAP benefits.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any restrictions on the types of snacks you can buy with EBT?

Yes, there are restrictions. Snacks must have a "Nutrition Facts" label to be eligible for purchase with EBT. Items with a "Supplement Facts" label or hot, prepared foods meant for immediate consumption are not eligible.

Can you buy snacks from vending machines with EBT?

No, you cannot use EBT to buy snacks from vending machines. EBT cards are generally accepted at authorized retailers, but vending machines are not equipped to process EBT transactions.

Do SNAP rules for buying snacks vary by state?

No, SNAP rules for buying snacks do not vary by state. The program is federally regulated, so the eligibility criteria for snacks are consistent across all states.

Can you buy snack gift baskets with EBT?

Yes, you can buy snack gift baskets with EBT as long as the items inside have "Nutrition Facts" labels and are intended for home consumption. However, if the basket contains ineligible items, those specific items cannot be purchased with EBT.