Shopping with SNAP
Apr 24, 2025
Understanding what can and cannot be bought with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps recipients spend their benefits wisely. Many wonder if tea, a common household item, is an eligible purchase.
Can You Buy Tea with EBT/ Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy tea with EBT or Food Stamps.
Tea is considered a food item under SNAP guidelines, making it eligible for purchase with EBT benefits. This includes both loose leaf and bagged tea, as long as it is intended for human consumption. The program aims to provide access to a variety of nutritious foods, and tea falls within this category.
How to Check If Tea Is SNAP-Eligible
To determine if an item is SNAP-eligible, check its label. If it has a "Nutrition Facts" label, it is likely eligible. Conversely, items with a "Supplement Facts" label are not eligible. Additionally, hot, prepared foods meant for immediate consumption are generally not SNAP-eligible. For example:
Frozen pizza: It has a "Nutrition Facts" label and is intended for home consumption. Therefore, it is SNAP-eligible.
Hot soup from a deli: It’s hot, prepared, and meant for immediate consumption. Therefore, it is not SNAP-eligible.
If in doubt, compare the product 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 tea, 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 are eligible for purchase, encouraging self-sufficiency and home gardening.
Farmers’ Markets: Many farmers' markets accept SNAP benefits, often through tokens or electronic payments, providing access to fresh, local produce.
Energy Drinks: If labeled with a "Nutrition Facts" panel (not "Supplement Facts"), energy drinks can be bought with EBT benefits.
Bakery Items and Birthday Cakes: Decorated birthday cakes and baked goods are eligible, as long as the value of non-edible decorations does not exceed 50% of the purchase price.
Seafood and Fresh Meat: Fresh, frozen, or canned seafood and meats are covered, allowing for a variety of protein sources in your diet.
Snack Foods: Chips, ice cream, candy, and other snacks are also eligible, providing some flexibility in your food choices.
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, such as cash or a credit card.
Manage Your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Benny is a great option to manage your SNAP benefits effectively. With Benny, you can check your EBT balance and transactions in real-time, helping you stay on top of your EBT spending. Plus, you can earn cash back on groceries and other purchases at popular stores such as Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. Download Benny to start saving on your EBT benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a limit on the type of tea you can buy with EBT?
Yes, there is a limit. Only tea intended for human consumption and labeled with "Nutrition Facts" is eligible for purchase with EBT. This includes both loose leaf and bagged tea. However, tea labeled with "Supplement Facts" is not eligible.
Can you buy iced tea with EBT?
Yes, you can buy iced tea with EBT as long as it is pre-packaged and labeled with "Nutrition Facts." However, iced tea from a restaurant or deli, which is prepared and meant for immediate consumption, is not eligible.
Are tea bags and loose leaf tea both eligible for purchase with EBT?
Yes, both tea bags and loose leaf tea are eligible for purchase with EBT. As long as the tea is intended for human consumption and has a "Nutrition Facts" label, it qualifies under SNAP guidelines.
Can you buy herbal tea with EBT?
Yes, you can buy herbal tea with EBT. Herbal teas that are intended for human consumption and have a "Nutrition Facts" label are eligible for purchase. However, if the herbal tea is labeled with "Supplement Facts," it is not eligible.
