Can You Buy Sweets with EBT/Food Stamps? (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 wonder if sweets are an eligible purchase.

Can You Buy Sweets with EBT/ Food Stamps?

Yes, you can buy sweets with Food Stamps or SNAP.

Sweets are considered eligible food items under SNAP because they are classified as food products. The program allows the purchase of most edible items, including candy, cookies, and other treats, as long as they are intended for human consumption. This flexibility helps recipients enjoy a variety of foods, including occasional indulgences.

How to Check If Sweets Is SNAP-Eligible

To check if sweets are 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?

Besides sweets, 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 strictly prohibited.

• Vitamins and Supplements: Items labeled with "Supplement Facts" are not eligible.

• Hot Prepared 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 item. The cashier or the self-checkout system will notify you that the item is not covered by SNAP benefits. You will need to pay for the ineligible item with another form of payment or remove it 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 receipt checks.

Additionally, Benny offers cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. Learn more about how Benny can help you manage your SNAP benefits effectively by visiting Benny.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are there any restrictions on the types of sweets you can buy with SNAP benefits?

Generally, most types of sweets, including candy, cookies, and cakes, are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. However, items like energy drinks labeled with "Supplement Facts" are not eligible.

2. Can you buy gourmet or specialty sweets with SNAP benefits?

Yes, gourmet or specialty sweets are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits as long as they are intended for human consumption and are not hot at the point of sale.

3. Do SNAP eligibility rules for sweets vary by state?

No, SNAP eligibility rules for sweets do not vary by state. The USDA sets the guidelines, and they apply uniformly across all states.

4. Can you buy holiday-themed sweets with SNAP benefits?

Yes, holiday-themed sweets such as Halloween candy or Christmas cookies are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits, provided they meet the general criteria for food items.