Can You Buy Donuts 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 wonder if donuts, a popular treat, are an eligible purchase.

Can You Buy Donuts with EBT/ Food Stamps?

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

Donuts are considered a staple food item under SNAP guidelines. The program allows the purchase of most bakery items, including donuts, as they are classified as food intended for home consumption. This means that as long as the donuts are not sold hot or prepared for immediate consumption, they are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.

How to Check If Donuts 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, if the item is hot, prepared, and meant for immediate consumption, it is likely 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.

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 donuts, 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 for that specific item. The cashier or the self-checkout system will notify you that the item is not eligible for purchase with 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 debit card.

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Benny is a great option to manage your SNAP benefits. It allows you to check your EBT balance and transactions in real-time, helping you stay on top of your 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

Are all types of donuts eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?

Not all types of donuts are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. Donuts that are sold hot or prepared for immediate consumption are not eligible. However, donuts intended for home consumption, such as those found in the bakery section of a grocery store, are eligible.

Can I buy donuts from a local bakery with my EBT card?

Yes, you can buy donuts from a local bakery with your EBT card as long as the donuts are not sold hot or prepared for immediate consumption. If the bakery sells packaged donuts intended for home consumption, they are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.

Are there any state-specific rules regarding the purchase of donuts with SNAP benefits?

No, there are no state-specific rules regarding the purchase of donuts with SNAP benefits. The eligibility criteria for purchasing donuts with SNAP benefits are consistent across all states, following federal guidelines.

Can I buy a decorated donut cake with my EBT card?

Yes, you can buy a decorated donut cake with your EBT card. As long as the donut cake is intended for home consumption and not sold hot or prepared for immediate consumption, it is eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.