Shopping with SNAP
May 4, 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 soft drinks qualify as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Soft Drinks with EBT/ Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy soft drinks with Food Stamps or SNAP.
Soft drinks are considered a food item under SNAP guidelines, making them eligible for purchase. The program allows for the purchase of most food products intended for home consumption, and soft drinks fall into this category. However, it's important to note that while they are eligible, choosing healthier options is encouraged for better nutrition.
How to Check If Soft Drinks Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if soft drinks are 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 You Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?
Besides soft drinks, 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 that cannot be purchased with these benefits, including:
Alcoholic Beverages: Beer, wine, and liquor are not eligible for purchase.
Vitamins and Supplements: Items with a "Supplement Facts" label are excluded.
Hot Foods: Foods that are hot at the point of sale, such as deli meals.
Non-Food Items: Household supplies, pet foods, and hygiene products.
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, eliminating the need for phone calls or checking receipts.
Additionally, Benny helps you earn cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. Learn more about how Benny can simplify your SNAP benefits management by visiting Benny.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are there any restrictions on the types of soft drinks you can buy with SNAP benefits?
Yes, you can buy any type of soft drink with SNAP benefits as long as it is intended for home consumption. This includes sodas, flavored waters, and other non-alcoholic beverages.
2. Do all stores accept SNAP benefits for soft drinks?
Most major grocery stores and retailers accept SNAP benefits for soft drinks. However, it's always a good idea to check with the store beforehand to ensure they accept EBT payments for these items.
3. Can you buy soft drinks online with SNAP benefits?
Yes, you can buy soft drinks online with SNAP benefits from participating retailers. Look for the "EBT/SNAP eligible" label on the retailer's website to confirm.
4. Are there any state-specific rules regarding the purchase of soft drinks with SNAP benefits?
No, the eligibility of soft drinks for purchase with SNAP benefits does not vary by state. Soft drinks are considered a food item under federal SNAP guidelines and are eligible for purchase nationwide.
