Can You Buy a Cake 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 cake qualifies as an approved purchase.

Can You Buy a Cake with EBT/ Food Stamps?

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

Cakes are eligible under SNAP because they are considered a food item. However, there are restrictions: the cake must be intended for human consumption, and the value of non-edible decorations must not exceed 50% of the purchase price. This ensures that the primary purpose of the purchase is for food, aligning with SNAP's guidelines.

How to Check If a Cake 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 deli sandwich: 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 cake, 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.

• Snack Foods: Chips, ice cream, candy, and other snacks.

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 at checkout. 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. This ensures that SNAP benefits are used only for approved items.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any restrictions on the type of cake you can buy with EBT?

Yes, there are restrictions. The cake must be intended for human consumption, and the value of non-edible decorations must not exceed 50% of the purchase price. This ensures that the primary purpose of the purchase is for food.

Can you buy a cake with EBT if it has non-edible decorations?

You can buy a cake with non-edible decorations using EBT, but the value of these decorations must not exceed 50% of the total purchase price. If the decorations are too expensive, the cake may not be eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.

Do SNAP eligibility rules for cakes vary by state?

No, SNAP eligibility rules for cakes do not vary by state. The guidelines are set at the federal level, ensuring consistency across all states. However, individual stores may have different policies on labeling and identifying SNAP-eligible items.

Can you buy a cake mix with EBT?

Yes, you can buy a cake mix with EBT. Cake mixes are considered food items and typically have a "Nutrition Facts" label, making them eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.