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. A common question is whether soft drinks qualify as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Soft Drinks with EBT/ Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy soft drinks with EBT or Food Stamps.
Soft drinks are considered a food item under SNAP guidelines, making them eligible for purchase. The program allows for the purchase of most food and beverage items, excluding alcohol and hot foods prepared for immediate consumption. This inclusion helps ensure that recipients have the flexibility to choose from a wide range of grocery items to meet their dietary needs and preferences.
How to Check If Soft Drinks 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:
Bag of chips: It has a "Nutrition Facts" label and is packaged for home consumption. Therefore, it is SNAP-eligible.
Hot pizza slice: 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 soft drinks, 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.
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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.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any restrictions on the types of soft drinks you can buy with EBT?
Yes, there are restrictions. Soft drinks must have a "Nutrition Facts" label to be eligible for purchase with EBT. Drinks labeled with "Supplement Facts" are not eligible.
Can you buy soft drinks from vending machines with EBT?
No, you cannot use EBT to buy soft drinks from vending machines. EBT cards are typically accepted only at authorized retailers, such as grocery stores and supermarkets.
Are there any limits on the quantity of soft drinks you can buy with EBT?
There are no specific limits on the quantity of soft drinks you can buy with EBT. However, your total purchase must stay within your available SNAP benefits balance.
Do state-specific rules affect the eligibility of soft drinks for purchase with EBT?
No, the eligibility of soft drinks for purchase with EBT does not vary by state. Soft drinks with a "Nutrition Facts" label are universally eligible under federal SNAP guidelines.
