Can you buy coffee with EBT? In this guide, we’ll explain what types of coffee are eligible, what EBT doesn’t cover, and even how your EBT card can help you get a free phone through AirTalk Wireless.
What Is EBT and How Does It Work?
EBT, short for Electronic Benefit Transfer, is a card that helps low-income individuals and families use their government food benefits more easily. It works through the SNAP program (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), which many people still know as food stamps.
Instead of paper coupons, you’ll receive an EBT card that works like a regular debit card. Each month, your benefits are added automatically to your account. You can use your card at most grocery stores, corner stores, and even some farmers’ markets to buy approved food items.
Just remember, not everything in the store qualifies. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) sets clear rules about what you can and can’t buy with your EBT card, especially when it comes to hot food or drinks made to order.
Can You Buy Coffee with EBT Card?
So the question arises, can you get coffee on an EBT card? The short answer is yes, but with some limits.
You can use your EBT card to buy packaged coffee, like ground coffee, coffee beans, or instant coffee, from most grocery stores or online. These are considered eligible food items because you prepare them at home.
However, you can’t use EBT to buy hot or ready-to-drink coffee from places like Starbucks, Dunkin’, McDonald’s, or gas stations.
That’s because the USDA doesn’t allow SNAP benefits to be used on foods or drinks that are hot and meant to be consumed right away.
Here’s a quick guide to help you note:
You can buy with EBT:
- Ground coffee or coffee beans from the store
- Instant coffee packets or jars
- Coffee pods or K-cups for home brewing
You can’t buy with EBT:
- Hot brewed coffee or espresso drinks from coffee shops
- Iced coffee is made and sold ready to drink
- Any drink meant to be consumed immediately
Top 7 Surprising Things You Can Buy with EBT Card
Even though coffee has some rules around it, there are still many surprising things you can buy with your EBT benefits. Here are a few you might not expect:
1. Seeds and Plants That Grow Food
These are EBT-eligible non-food items. You can use your EBT card to buy fruit, vegetable, and herb seeds, along with plants that grow food.
This is a smart way to start a small home garden, save money in the long run, and enjoy fresh produce straight from your backyard.
2. Bakery Items
Items like bread, muffins, cakes, and cookies are usually EBT-eligible as long as they’re not hot when you buy them. You can use your card at grocery stores, bakeries, or pick up packaged baked goods from the shelves.
3. Snack Foods
Craving something quick? You can buy chips, pretzels, granola bars, and other snack foods using your EBT card. These are considered regular grocery items under SNAP rules.
4. Soft Drinks and Bottled Water
Yes, your EBT benefits can cover soda, bottled water, and even sparkling water. While these aren’t the healthiest choices, they still count as beverages meant for home use, so they’re approved under SNAP.
5. Energy Drinks (With a Nutrition Facts Label)
Some energy drinks are okay to buy with EBT, but only if the can or bottle shows a Nutrition Facts label (not a “Supplement Facts” label). That’s because the USDA treats them as food, not as supplements.
6. Ice
You can even buy bagged or block ice using your EBT benefits. It might sound simple, but it’s handy for keeping your other EBT-purchased foods fresh, especially in hot weather or during power outages.
7. Protein Powders (Sometimes)
Certain protein powders can be bought with EBT, but you’ll need to check the label. If it lists Nutrition Facts, it’s allowed. If it lists Supplement Facts, it’s not covered since it’s considered a supplement.
>>> Read more: What Fast Food Restaurants Take EBT Near Me: Find Locations That Accept SNAP Benefits
Surprising Things You Can Buy with EBT at Walmart
The good news is Walmart accepts EBT cards at all its stores and even online through Walmart.com or the Walmart app in many states. Here are some surprising things you can buy with EBT at Walmart:
- Packaged coffee and tea that you can make at home
- Fresh bakery items like bread or muffins (as long as they aren’t hot)
- Snack foods and cereal bars for quick bites
- Seeds and plants that let you grow your own fruits or vegetables
- Energy drinks that have a Nutrition Facts label
Walmart also makes shopping easier for SNAP recipients by offering online EBT payments and grocery pickup or delivery in many areas.
What Does EBT Not Cover?
Even though EBT helps pay for most groceries, there are still some things you can’t buy with your SNAP benefits.
Items you can’t buy with your EBT card:
- Alcohol or tobacco of any kind
- Hot food or drinks made to eat right away (like coffee or pizza from the deli)
- Vitamins, medicines, or anything with a “Supplement Facts” label
- Pet food or pet supplies
- Cleaning products, paper goods, and personal care items like soap or shampoo
- Makeup, beauty, or cosmetic products
If you accidentally try to buy one of these, the store’s system will automatically decline that part of your purchase. It’s always a good idea to check the label or ask the cashier if you’re unsure before paying.
Did You Know You Can Get a Free Phone with EBT?
Your EBT card can do more than just help you buy food. It can also help you get a free phone and internet service through government programs like Lifeline.
If you receive SNAP benefits, you already qualify for these programs. Through AirTalk Wireless, you can get a free smartphone with unlimited talk, text, and high-speed data, and you don’t have to pay anything.
Here’s how you can apply:
- Go to AirTalkWireless.com
- Click “Apply Now”
- Enter your ZIP code and follow the steps
- Confirm your eligibility using your EBT or SNAP details
- Pick your free phone and plan
If you’re still struggling with these steps, just contact our Customer Support. Once your application is approved, AirTalk Wireless will ship your phone straight to your home.
With your new device, you’ll be able to stay connected with your loved ones, find job opportunities, reach emergency help, and keep in touch with your doctors.
Final Words
So, can you buy coffee with EBT? Yes, you can, as long as it’s coffee you make at home, like ground coffee, beans, or instant coffee. You just can’t use your EBT card for hot coffee from places like gas stations, cafés, or restaurants. Also, if you already have an EBT card, you might be able to get a free phone and a monthly service plan through AirTalk Wireless. It’s an easy way to stay connected with family, work, and emergency services without adding extra costs to your budget.