The Most Surprising Things You Can Buy With EBT Card (Or Cannot)

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits provide access to a variety of essential food items. But did you know there are some surprising items you can purchase with EBT that you may not expect? Let’s explore these unexpected facts: some of the most surprising things you can buy with EBT. 

1. What Is EBT? What Does EBT Cover? 

In 2023, 1 in 11 people around the world experienced hunger. 18 million U.S. households experienced food insecurity at some point; 6.8 million faced very low food security during the year, according to a report by the USDA Economic Research Service. 

SNAP, also known as food stamps, is a government program that assists eligible individuals and families in purchasing food.  

You will receive SNAP benefits each month through the EBT card. The EBT system enables SNAP recipients to access their benefits using a plastic card, much like a debit or credit card. EBT is used to make purchases for eligible food items at participating retailers.  

The way EBT operates can vary between states. For example, in California, CalFresh/SNAP benefits are issued via an EBT card known as the “Golden State Advantage” card. In Texas, the EBT card is simply referred to as the “Lone Star Card”. 

What can you buy with food stamps? 

SNAP/food stamps allow recipients to purchase a wide range of food products for home preparation and consumption. According to the USDA, eligible food items you can buy with EBT include fruits and vegetables, meats, fish, dairy products, breads, and cereals.

2. 15 Surprising Things You Can Buy With EBT 

You might be surprised by just how many items you can purchase. While most people know they can buy essentials like fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy, there are plenty of unexpected, crazy things you can buy with EBT. 

So, if you’re looking to make the most of your benefits, here’s a list of surprising things you can buy with EBT to help you get more bang for your buck.  

2.1. Seeds and plants 

One of the surprising things you can buy with EBT is seeds and edible plants. Many people don’t realize this, but we can use SNAP benefits to purchase seeds and food-producing plants at any SNAP-authorized retailer, including grocery stores and farmers’ markets. 

SNAP recipients can grow their own fruits, vegetables, and herbs at home, including popular items like tomato plants and cucumber seeds. Not only does this promote healthier eating habits, but it also supports long-term food security for families.  

For every $1 spent on seeds and fertilizer, home gardeners can grow an average of $25 worth of fresh produce. Next time, add the seeds and plants to your carts.

2.2. Energy drinks 

If an energy drink has a “Nutrition Facts” label, it’s considered a food item and can be purchased with an EBT card. Drinks with a “Supplement Facts” label are categorized as dietary supplements and cannot be purchased using EBT. 

What does this mean when you’re shopping? You’ll need to check each can or bottle individually. Sometimes, popular brands have both types of products on shelves – one that’s SNAP-eligible, and one that isn’t, based on labeling. 

2.3. Snack foods and sweets (like cakes) 

A wide variety of snack and dessert items are surprising things you can buy with food stamps. Some popular EBT eligible items include:  

• Chips: potato chips, tortilla chips, cheese puffs, popcorn, etc. 
• Baked sweets: cookies, cupcakes, muffins, cakes, etc. 
• Frozen desserts: ice cream, frozen yogurt, sherbet, etc. 
• Candy: chocolate bars, gum, fudge, etc. 

(Recently, states like Arkansas, Idaho, and Indiana announced plans to apply for waivers to block SNAP recipients from using benefits for candy and sod.)

2.4. Baking supplies 

If you love baking, you’ll be glad to know that many baking essentials are SNAP-eligible items. You can use your EBT benefits to purchase a wide range of baking supplies that complement or supplement meals, such as sugar, honey, maple syrup, artificial sweeteners, spices, seasonings, baking soda, and baking powder.  

2.5. Seafood 

Fresh seafood (such as shrimp, crab, lobster, and clams) is among the staple foods and is eligible for purchase with EBT at certain markets and grocery stores. Availability can vary depending on your location. For example, you can use your EBT benefits to buy fresh fish and shellfish in the Boston Public Market (Massachusetts) or Saltwater Seafood Market and Fry Shack (North Carolina).

2.6. Baby formula and baby food 

Baby food and infant formula are among the EBT eligible items. This includes a variety of items such as infant formula, cereals, baby food jars, juices, and other foods specifically made for babies. Parents can only use SNAP benefits to buy store-brand baby formula and food.

>>> Also read: WIC Benefits California – Everything You Need To Know

2.7. Coffee and tea 

You cannot purchase hot coffee and tea sold ready-to-drink in stores with SNAP benefits, but you can buy coffee and tea for home preparation. You’ll find tea bags or packaged teas at many major retailers, and they are among the surprising things you can buy with EBT at Walmart. 

2.8. Bottled water and ice 

You can use your benefits to purchase bottled water. In addition, you can buy bags of ice as well. 

2.9. Cold drinks 

Many people don’t realize that cold beverages can be SNAP-eligible, as long as they’re intended for home consumption. You can use your EBT card to buy slushies, iced coffee, or fountain drinks.  

However, hot drinks like lattes or hot tea are not covered by SNAP benefits. 

2.10. Restaurant meals 

Certain SNAP recipients can use their SNAP benefits to purchase prepared meals at participating restaurants through the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP). 

Some states participate in the RMP, including California, Illinois, and Massachusetts. Each state maintains its own list of participating restaurants. 

If your state offers the program, you must meet one of the following criteria to qualify: elderly (60 years or older), disabled, or homeless. 

2.11. Gift baskets 

According to USDA guidelines, gift baskets that contain food items such as chocolate, candy, or other eligible foods are eligible for purchase with the EBT card, but it depends on the composition of the basket.  

If the food items in the basket account for more than 50% of the total value, the basket is eligible for SNAP purchase. Gift baskets that contain alcohol, cigarettes, or any other ineligible items are also not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. 

2.12. Fishing and hunting gear 

In areas like Alaska, where access to food stores is limited, SNAP benefits may be used for necessary hunting and fishing equipment, such as fishing rods and reels, fishing lines and hooks, and nets, to obtain food for your household.  

This equipment is among EBT eligible items non food. However, it’s important to note that SNAP benefits cannot be used for equipment meant for recreational fishing or hunting. 

2.13. Military commissary items 

Military commissaries generally accept SNAP benefits for purchasing eligible food items. These must meet the same criteria as those sold in other authorized retailers to be eligible for SNAP.  

In addition to food purchases, SNAP benefits can also be used to pay the surcharges applied at military commissaries. These surcharges help fund the construction, repair, improvement, and maintenance of the commissary facilities. 

2.14. Protein powder 

Can you get protein powder with EBT? 

Many ask about this. You can purchase protein powders with your EBT card if they are considered food items under SNAP guidelines. The key distinction is whether the product has a “Nutrition Facts” label or a “Supplement Facts” label. 

Items with a “Nutrition Facts” label, including certain protein powders, bars, and shakes, are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. But items with a “Supplement Facts” label, such as most protein powders and dietary supplements, are not eligible for SNAP purchase. 

2.15. Free phones and discounted service

While you can’t directly use EBT to purchase a smartphone or internet plan, receiving SNAP benefits can help you qualify for the Lifeline program. This government program offers discounted phone or internet service to eligible low-income households.

What’s more amazing is, if participants apply for Lifeline via a licensed service provider, like AirTalk Wireless for example, they have the chance to receive free data plan and A FREE SMARTPHONE, or discounted tablet, and more.

If you’re interested in getting free phones with high-speed data, you can learn more information HERE.

SNAP recipients may also start their Lifeline application now as the process on AirTalk is extremely seamless and quick.

3. What You Cannot Buy With EBT 

There are some main exclusions to SNAP benefits. Things you can’t buy using EBT include: 

• Alcohol and tobacco products 
• Hot food: Prepared hot food items, or any food meant for immediate on-premises consumption, cannot be purchased with EBT. 
• Nonfood items: pet food, soap, paper goods, medicines, vitamins, cosmetics, and household supplies.

Conclusion 

From everyday groceries to unexpected items like baking supplies, this list of surprising things you can buy with EBT is sure to help you make the most of your benefits. 

Remember, if used wisely, SNAP benefits can enhance your lifestyle in a variety of ways. So, the next time you shop, keep these surprising EBT eligible items in mind to stretch your benefits even further.