Shopping with SNAP
May 4, 2025
Understanding what you can and can’t buy with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps recipients spend their benefits wisely. A common question is whether lunch meat qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Lunch Meat with EBT/ Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy lunch meat with EBT or Food Stamps.
This is because lunch meat is considered a staple food item under SNAP guidelines. The program allows the purchase of most food items intended for home preparation and consumption, and lunch meat falls into this category. Therefore, recipients can use their benefits to buy various types of lunch meat, including pre-packaged and deli-sliced options.
How to Check If Lunch Meat Is SNAP-Eligible
To determine if lunch meat or any other item is SNAP-eligible, check the label. If the item has a "Nutrition Facts" label, it is likely eligible. Conversely, if it has a "Supplement Facts" label, it is not eligible. Additionally, hot, prepared foods meant for immediate consumption are generally not SNAP-eligible. For example:
Packaged turkey slices: It has a "Nutrition Facts" label and is intended for home consumption. Therefore, it is SNAP-eligible.
Hot pizza: 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 lunch meat, 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.
Manage Your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
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
Is there a limit on the amount of lunch meat you can buy with EBT?
No, there is no specific limit on the amount of lunch meat you can buy with EBT. As long as the lunch meat is intended for home preparation and consumption, you can purchase as much as your SNAP benefits allow.
Can you buy both pre-packaged and deli-sliced lunch meat with EBT?
Yes, you can buy both pre-packaged and deli-sliced lunch meat with EBT. Both types are considered staple food items under SNAP guidelines, making them eligible for purchase with your benefits.
Are there any types of lunch meat that are not eligible for purchase with EBT?
Lunch meat that is hot and prepared for immediate consumption is not eligible for purchase with EBT. For example, a hot sandwich from a deli counter would not qualify, whereas cold, pre-packaged lunch meat would.
Does the eligibility of lunch meat vary by state?
No, the eligibility of lunch meat under SNAP does not vary by state. SNAP is a federal program, and its guidelines apply uniformly across all states, allowing the purchase of lunch meat as long as it meets the criteria for home preparation and consumption.
