The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, helps people with low incomes buy food. You might know it as food stamps, but now it uses an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card, which works like a debit card. But what exactly can you buy with that EBT card? This essay will break down the basics of what food qualifies for EBT purchases.
What Are the Basic Food Categories Allowed?
So, what kind of grub can you actually get with your EBT? Basically, SNAP covers most foods you’d find in a grocery store that you eat at home. The main types of food that are eligible include fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, and bread. This means you can stock up on healthy options to feed yourself and your family.
What About Processed Foods and Snacks?
A lot of the time, we’re reaching for those convenient snacks and processed foods. Good news – many of these are allowed! You can definitely buy things like:
- Canned goods (fruits, veggies, soups)
- Frozen foods (again, fruits, veggies, dinners)
- Cereals and granola bars
- Chips, cookies, and crackers
However, there are some rules. Prepared foods, like hot meals at the grocery store, usually aren’t covered (more on that later). SNAP is meant to help you get the ingredients to cook at home, so think about what you’re making and if it has ingredients that can be prepped for cooking at home.
Here is a quick example of what could be purchased. If it says ‘ready to eat’, it is not allowed. If it has the ingredients that you can cook with, it is allowed.
- Can of soup – Allowed
- Bag of chips – Allowed
- Hot rotisserie chicken – Not Allowed
- Bag of frozen chicken – Allowed
What Drinks Are Eligible?
The drink options are pretty simple, but there are some important things to note. You can definitely purchase drinks such as water, juice, milk, and soda. However, like food, there are some exceptions.
Drinks allowed:
- Water (bottled or tap)
- Juice (100% fruit juice is always okay)
- Milk (dairy and non-dairy options)
- Soda (regular or diet)
Drinks NOT allowed:
- Alcoholic beverages
- Drinks that have nutritional supplements
- Prepared beverages (like a smoothie)
It is important to note that you can buy coffee beans or tea leaves, but can not get a cup of coffee at a cafe.
Where Can You Use Your EBT Card?
You’re not just stuck shopping at a specific store. You can use your EBT card at a whole bunch of places! Pretty much any grocery store that accepts SNAP is fair game. This includes:
You can also use EBT at:
- Grocery stores like Kroger, Safeway, or Walmart
- Farmers’ markets (often, these have special programs!)
- Some convenience stores and corner stores
- Some online grocery retailers
Just look for signs that say “We Accept SNAP” or “EBT Accepted”. It’s always a good idea to double-check before you start shopping!
For your reference, here is a list that should clarify where you can and cannot use EBT.
| Accepts EBT | Does NOT Accept EBT |
|---|---|
| Grocery Stores | Restaurants |
| Farmers Markets | Liquor Stores |
| Some Convenience Stores | Online retailers that do not accept EBT |
What Items Are NOT Allowed?
There are some items that you cannot purchase with EBT. These are mostly things that aren’t considered essential food or are prepared foods.
Here are some examples:
- Alcoholic beverages (beer, wine, liquor)
- Tobacco products (cigarettes, cigars)
- Vitamins and supplements
- Non-food items (pet food, paper products, cleaning supplies, diapers, etc.)
- Prepared foods, ready-to-eat foods (e.g., hot meals from a deli, food eaten in the store)
Also, items are not allowed if they are not food, or are consumed at the store. So that means no hot dogs, even though you can buy the ingredients. And no alcohol, because that is not food. There are many exceptions and details. Please check your local state’s website for more information.
So, there you have it! Understanding what food qualifies for EBT is the first step in making the most of your benefits. Remember to focus on the basics: fruits, veggies, meat, dairy, and other ingredients you can use to cook at home. Happy shopping!