Can You Buy a Soda 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 soda qualifies as an approved purchase.

Can You Buy a Soda with EBT/ Food Stamps?

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

Soda is considered a food item under the SNAP guidelines, which means it qualifies for purchase with these benefits. The program allows for the purchase of most food and beverage items, including soft drinks, as long as they are intended for home consumption.

How to Check If a Soda Is SNAP-Eligible

To determine if a soda is SNAP-eligible, check its label. If it has a "Nutrition Facts" label, it is likely eligible. Conversely, if it has a "Supplement Facts" label, it is not. Additionally, hot, prepared items meant for immediate consumption are generally not eligible. For example:

• Bag of chips: 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.

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 soda, 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 for that item or remove it from your purchase. This ensures that SNAP benefits are used only for eligible items.

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Managing your SNAP benefits is easier with Benny. Our app lets you check your EBT balance and transactions in real-time, helping you stay on top of your spending. Plus, earn cash back on groceries and other purchases at popular stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. Download Benny to start saving on your EBT benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, there are restrictions. Only sodas with a "Nutrition Facts" label are eligible for purchase with EBT. Sodas labeled with "Supplement Facts" are not eligible.

Can you buy soda from vending machines with EBT?

No, you cannot use EBT to buy soda from vending machines. SNAP benefits are intended for items meant for home consumption, and vending machines typically dispense items for immediate consumption.

Is there a limit on the amount of soda you can buy with EBT?

There is no specific limit on the amount of soda you can buy with EBT. However, it is advisable to use your benefits wisely and ensure you are purchasing a balanced variety of food items.

Do soda purchases with EBT vary by state?

No, soda purchases with EBT do not vary by state. The eligibility of soda as a SNAP-eligible item is determined by federal guidelines, which apply uniformly across all states.