Can You Buy Chips with EBT Card? Guide to Eligible & Rules
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For many SNAP participants, knowing what items are eligible for purchase is essential to making the most of their benefits. One of the most frequently asked questions is “can you buy chips with EBT”, reflecting the popularity of snack foods like potato chips, corn snacks, and packaged treats.
Here’s the most up-to-date information on buying chips, soda, branded snacks, and other common items, along with tips to maximize your benefits and access additional programs and services outside grocery purchases.
1. Can You Buy Chips With EBT?
Yes. Under the current rules of the SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), you can fully buy chips with an EBT card. In other words, if you’re wondering “can you buy chips with EBT card” or “can you still buy chips with EBT” the answer remains yes.
However, the ability to purchase these items can vary by state and depends on newly approved regulations.
And some states are moving to restrict SNAP purchases of certain “junk food” items, such as chips. These rules may vary by state and could change as new regulations are introduced.
Can you buy chips and soda with EBT?
For chips (such as potato chips, corn snacks, or packaged treats), these products are classified as snack foods and are generally allowed for purchase with EBT if they carry a Nutrition Facts label and are not on your state’s restricted list.
Similarly, soda (carbonated soft drinks), sugary beverages, or drinks with artificial sweeteners are also typically eligible for purchase with EBT as long as the product has a Nutrition Facts label, not a “Supplement Facts” label, and is not hot food or prepared for immediate consumption at the store.
However, some states have been granted “waivers” to limit the purchase of “junk food” with SNAP/EBT, including soda, sugary drinks, chips, cookies, and pastries.
Can you buy Quest chips or Branded snacks with EBT?
Branded snacks like Quest Chips and other similar products can also be purchased with EBT if they meet the following two main conditions:
- The product has a Nutrition Facts label (standard nutrition label, not a “Supplement Facts” label or a dietary supplement).
- The product is sold at a SNAP-authorized retailer and is not classified as a restricted “junk food” item under your state’s rules.
Because Quest is a snack/protein brand, there’s sometimes confusion: if a product is categorized as a dietary supplement (such as protein bars or supplements) and carries a “Supplement Facts” label, the store may decline EBT payment for it.
Can you buy Oreos with EBT?
Yes. In most areas, you can use SNAP/EBT to buy Oreos, since they are a type of cookie included in the allowable snack category and are not hot or prepared foods.
However, in states that implement a “junk food ban”, restricting cookies, sweet snacks, and low nutrition processed foods, Oreos may be excluded from the list of eligible products.
2. What Is the Most Bought Item with Food Stamps?
According to the latest USDA SNAP report, the foods and beverages most frequently purchased with food stamps go beyond fresh groceries.
Top SNAP purchases by category:
- Sugary drinks & soda: ~25% of SNAP spending
Includes soft drinks, flavored water, and ready-to-drink fruit beverages. - Snacks & chips: ~15% of SNAP spending
Potato chips, corn chips, packaged snacks, and cookies. - Meat & poultry: ~20% of SNAP spending
Beef, chicken, pork, and other protein sources commonly bought by SNAP households. - Milk & dairy products: ~12% of SNAP spending
Fresh milk, yogurt, cheese, and other dairy items that supplement daily nutrition.
Other eligible items like fruits, vegetables, and grains make up the remaining portion of SNAP expenditures. Products with a Nutrition Facts label are generally eligible, while items with a Supplement Facts label (like protein bars or dietary powders) may not qualify.
3. What Free Stuff Can I Get with Food Stamps?
Beyond groceries, your EBT card can help you access free or discounted services that enhance daily life. Here are some key programs SNAP participants can take advantage of:
- Free or Discounted Museum Access: Programs like Museums for All allow EBT cardholders to enjoy reduced admission, often $5 or less per person for up to four guests. Participating venues include science museums, children’s museums, and art galleries.
- Farmers Market Matching Programs: Initiatives such as Produce Perks or Double Up Food Bucks give $1 worth of fresh produce for every $1 spent with SNAP benefits, up to daily limits, promoting healthy eating while supporting local farmers.
- Utility, Internet, and Wellness Discounts: Programs like LIHEAP help with heating, cooling, and energy efficiency, while some internet providers offer discounted plans with free equipment. Community centers and gyms, including YMCA locations, provide reduced memberships, fitness classes, swimming pools, and childcare services, supporting overall health and wellness.
>>> Check more: EBT-Eligible Items (Non-Food): Things You Can Buy with EBT
4. Tips to Maximize Your SNAP Benefits
Take advantage of matching programs
Use initiatives like Produce Perks or Double Up Food Bucks to get extra value from each SNAP dollar.
Use Lifeline for connectivity
Lifeline is a federal program that helps low-income households reduce or even eliminate the cost of phone and Internet services, and in some cases, provides devices.
Having a stable Internet connection allows you to access online promotions, sign up for support services, and participate in remote learning.
Quick steps to apply:
- Check eligibility criteria
- Apply through the Lifeline website, or a participating provider such as AirTalk Wireless
- Select a provider, apply, wait for approval, and activate your plan
>>> Check more: How to Apply for SNAP in California (and Get a Free Phone)
Plan meals strategically
Stock up on staples like rice, beans, and pasta to create nutritious, cost-effective meals.
Explore additional assistance programs
Programs such as the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program or the Commodity Supplemental Food Program provide extra food support.
Combine coupons and discounts
Look for store promotions and digital coupons to stretch your benefits further.
By understanding these programs and applying smart strategies, SNAP participants can make the most of every dollar and gain the greatest possible benefits.
Final Words
Understanding SNAP rules helps you make the most of your EBT card. If you’ve wondered “can you buy chips with EBT”, the answer is yes, when you know which snacks and food items are eligible and which state allows this. Take advantage of programs like farmers market matching, utility and wellness discounts, and museum access to maximize your benefits.
With careful planning, SNAP participants can stretch every dollar, maintain a balanced diet, and enjoy enriching, non-food experiences.
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