What Can You Buy With an EBT Card?

Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) is a system that allows government assistance to be provided to individuals and families through a debit-like card. This system is primarily used for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps, which helps supplement the food budgets of eligible households. The EBT card streamlines the delivery of benefits, allowing recipients to purchase food items at authorized retailers. It functions much like a standard debit card, providing a convenient and discreet way to access food assistance.

Approved Food Categories

EBT cards, particularly for SNAP benefits, are intended for purchasing various food items for household consumption. The overarching rule is that eligible items are those meant for home preparation. This includes fresh, frozen, and canned fruits and vegetables. Consumers can also purchase meat, poultry, and fish, whether fresh, frozen, or canned.

Dairy products, like milk, cheese, yogurt, and plant-based alternatives, are also eligible. Breads and cereals, including gluten-free options and pasta, are approved purchases. EBT benefits also cover snack items, non-alcoholic beverages like water, soda, and juices, as well as condiments, spices, and baking ingredients. Even items like bakery cakes and edible food decorations are permitted, provided non-edible decorations do not exceed half the cake’s cost.

EBT benefits also cover seeds and plants that produce food for the household. This includes garden seeds for fruits, vegetables, and herbs, as well as food-producing plants like berry bushes or tomato seedlings.

Prohibited Purchases

While EBT cards cover many food items, specific goods and services cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits. Alcoholic beverages, including beer, wine, and liquor, are prohibited, as are tobacco products.

Prohibited items also include vitamins, medicines, and supplements. If a product bears a “Supplement Facts” label, it is ineligible for purchase with EBT. Hot foods prepared for immediate consumption, such as rotisserie chickens or deli items that are hot at the point of sale, are not allowed. Some states may have limited exceptions for vulnerable populations or during disaster waivers.

Non-food items are also excluded from EBT purchases. This includes pet foods, cleaning supplies, paper products like toilet paper, household items, and hygiene products. Live animals, except for certain shellfish or fish, are also not eligible.

Where and How to Use Your EBT Card

EBT cards are accepted at many retail locations. Grocery stores, supermarkets, and convenience stores accept EBT payments. Look for the SNAP EBT logo or Quest mark at the entrance or checkout. Over 3,100 farmers markets also accept EBT cards.

Using an EBT card at checkout is similar to a debit card transaction. Swipe or insert your EBT card into the payment terminal and enter your Personal Identification Number (PIN). Some systems may prompt the user to select “food” or “cash” if their card holds both types of benefits. Keep the receipt, which shows the remaining balance.

Online purchasing with EBT has expanded, with major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Instacart accepting EBT for eligible food items. Delivery fees are not covered and must be paid separately. At farmers markets, you may exchange EBT funds for tokens or vouchers at an information booth to purchase items from vendors.