Can You Buy a Coke 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. Many recipients may wonder whether Coke, a popular beverage, is an eligible purchase.

Can You Buy a Coke with EBT/ Food Stamps?

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

This is because SNAP benefits cover most non-alcoholic beverages, including soft drinks like Coke. The program aims to provide recipients with the flexibility to purchase a variety of food and drink items, ensuring they can meet their nutritional needs and preferences.

How to Check If a Coke 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 covered by SNAP. For example:

• Bag of chips: It has a "Nutrition Facts" label and is intended for home consumption. Therefore, it is SNAP-eligible.

• Hot pizza slice: 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.

Additionally, 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 Coke, 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 eligible items.

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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.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Limit on How Much Coke You Can Buy with EBT?

There is no specific limit on the amount of Coke you can buy with EBT. As long as the total purchase falls within your available SNAP benefits, you can buy as much Coke as you need.

Can You Buy Different Varieties of Coke with EBT?

Yes, you can buy different varieties of Coke with EBT. This includes regular Coke, Diet Coke, and any other flavors or versions that have a "Nutrition Facts" label.

Are There Any States Where Coke Is Not Eligible for Purchase with EBT?

No, Coke is eligible for purchase with EBT in all states. Since it is a non-alcoholic beverage with a "Nutrition Facts" label, it meets the federal guidelines for SNAP eligibility.

Can You Buy Coke from Vending Machines with EBT?

No, you cannot use EBT to buy Coke from vending machines. EBT cards are typically not accepted at vending machines, as these machines do not have the capability to process EBT transactions.