Can You Buy Meal Kits 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 meal kits qualify as an approved purchase.

Can You Buy Meal Kits with EBT/ Food Stamps?

Yes, you can buy meal kits with EBT or Food Stamps.

This is because meal kits that include ingredients for home preparation are considered eligible under SNAP guidelines. The key factor is that the kits must contain food items that require preparation and cooking, rather than pre-prepared meals. This aligns with SNAP's focus on providing ingredients for nutritious, home-cooked meals.

How to Check If Meal Kits Is SNAP-Eligible

To determine if an item is SNAP-eligible, check its label. If the item 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 vegetables: They have a "Nutrition Facts" label and are intended for home preparation. Therefore, they are 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 meal kits, 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.

Manage Your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny

Benny is a great option to manage your SNAP benefits effectively. With our app, 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.

Download Benny to start saving on your EBT benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are all meal kits eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?

No, not all meal kits are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. Only those meal kits that contain ingredients for home preparation and cooking qualify. Meal kits that include pre-prepared or hot foods intended for immediate consumption are not eligible.

Do SNAP eligibility rules for meal kits vary by state?

Yes, SNAP eligibility rules for meal kits can vary by state. While the federal guidelines provide a general framework, individual states may have additional regulations or interpretations that affect what can be purchased with SNAP benefits. It's advisable to check with your local SNAP office for specific state rules.

Can you buy meal kits online with EBT?

Yes, you can buy meal kits online with EBT, but only through approved retailers. Major online platforms like Amazon and Walmart accept EBT for eligible items, including meal kits that require home preparation. Always verify that the retailer is authorized to accept EBT payments.

What should you do if a meal kit is declined at checkout?

If a meal kit is declined at checkout, it means the item is not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. You will need to either remove the meal kit from your purchase or use another form of payment to complete the transaction. This helps ensure that SNAP benefits are used only for approved items.