Shopping with SNAP
May 4, 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 prepared food qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Prepared Food with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy prepared food with Food Stamps or EBT.
This restriction exists because SNAP benefits are intended to help low-income households purchase groceries to prepare meals at home. Prepared foods, which are ready-to-eat items, do not align with this goal. The program aims to encourage healthier eating habits and more economical meal planning by focusing on unprepared, staple foods.
How to Check If Prepared Food 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, 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:
Frozen vegetables: They have a "Nutrition Facts" label and are intended for home consumption. Therefore, they are SNAP-eligible.
Hot pizza: It’s hot, prepared, and meant for immediate consumption. Therefore, it is not SNAP-eligible.
If in doubt, compare the item to USDA rules to determine SNAP eligibility.
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.
What Else Can You Not Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?
While SNAP benefits cover a wide range of essential food items, there are products like prepared food that cannot be purchased with these benefits, including:
Alcoholic Beverages: Beer, wine, and other alcoholic drinks are strictly prohibited from being bought with SNAP benefits.
Vitamins and Supplements: Items with a "Supplement Facts" label, such as vitamins and dietary supplements, are not eligible for purchase.
Non-Food Items: Household supplies, pet food, and other non-food products cannot be bought with SNAP benefits.
Hot Foods: Foods that are hot at the point of sale, such as rotisserie chickens or hot deli items, are not eligible.
What Happens If You Try to Buy an Ineligible Item with an EBT Card?
If you try to buy an ineligible item with an 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. Our app 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. Download Benny to start saving on your EBT benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any exceptions to the rule that prepared food is not eligible for purchase with SNAP?
Yes, there are exceptions. Some states have programs that allow the elderly, disabled, or homeless to use SNAP benefits to buy prepared meals at approved restaurants. These programs are known as the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP).
Can you buy prepared food from a grocery store if it is cold or not meant for immediate consumption?
No, even if the prepared food is cold or not meant for immediate consumption, it is still not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. The restriction applies to all prepared foods, regardless of temperature or intended consumption time.
Will your EBT benefits be halted if you try to buy prepared food with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you attempt to buy prepared food. However, the transaction will be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment or remove the item from your purchase.
Are baskets containing prepared food eligible for purchase with SNAP?
No, if a basket contains prepared food, the prepared food items will not be eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. You will need to separate the eligible items from the ineligible ones and pay for them separately.
