Does Starbucks Accept EBT? Everything You Need to Know in 2025

The question of does Starbucks accept EBT continues to spark confusion, because most of its standalone cafés simply aren’t part of the program. However, certain kiosks located inside SNAP-authorized grocery stores do allow EBT payments for select prepackaged, non-heated items. To fully tap into your EBT benefits, it’s essential to recognize the rare exceptions where usage is permitted.

1. Does Starbucks Accept EBT? 

While you might hope to use your EBT card at Starbucks for a quick snack or beverage, the reality is that most Starbucks outlets do not process EBT transactions. However, this isn’t an absolute rule.

There are a few important exceptions you should be aware of to use EBT properly and within guidelines.

First, it’s important to understand that Starbucks is a popular coffee brand, but not all locations are company owned. Some Starbucks locations are situated inside major grocery stores like Target, Safeway, or Fred Meyer, and this is where things differ.

These in-store Starbucks locations may accept EBT payments, but only for certain prepackaged, non-heated food and drink items that meet SNAP eligibility, such as bottled cold coffee, packaged snacks, or pre-made cold sandwiches. 

On the other hand, standalone Starbucks locations, those outside of grocery store, do not accept EBT at all. 

Why do most standalone Starbucks not accept EBT?

The main reason why most standalone Starbucks stores do not accept EBT lies in the strict guidelines set by the SNAP program, which is managed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). 

Under SNAP regulations, EBT cards cannot be used to purchase “hot, prepared foods intended for immediate consumption.” This includes items such as hot coffee, made-to-order lattes, and heated sandwiches, all of which are core menu offerings at Starbucks, where most food and drink items are prepared fresh and served hot.

Additionally, to qualify as a SNAP-authorized retailer, a business must have at least 50% of its gross sales come from eligible staple foods, such as fresh produce, dairy, bread, and unprepared meats. Starbucks doesn’t meet this requirement, as it primarily operates as a quick-service restaurant, rather than a grocery store.

Because of this, the vast majority of Starbucks standalone stores are not authorized SNAP vendors and cannot process EBT transactions. 

Does Starbucks inside Target accept EBT?

While most Starbucks locations do not accept EBT, there is a notable exception consumers should be aware of: Starbucks kiosks inside major grocery chains like Target or Safeway do accept EBT. 

Technically, these kiosks are not standalone Starbucks stores; instead, they are managed as part of the grocery store’s retail operation.

Since the grocery store is already SNAP-authorized, customers can use EBT cards to purchase eligible items, provided those items are prepackaged, non-heated, and not custom-prepared. 

It’s also worth noting that Starbucks does not participate in the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP), a SNAP subprogram that allows certain eligible individuals (such as seniors, people with disabilities, and the homeless) to purchase hot meals at participating restaurants in specific states.

This means that even if you qualify for RMP, you still cannot use EBT at any Starbucks location.

>>> Read more: Does McDonald’s Take EBT? Here’s What You Need to Know

2. What Can You Buy with EBT at Starbucks-Affiliated Stores?  

Although most standalone Starbucks stores do not accept EBT, you can still purchase certain eligible items using EBT at Starbucks kiosks located inside grocery stores such as Target, Safeway, or Fred Meyer.

However, it’s important to understand which types of products are eligible for EBT payment and which are not.

Eligible items: Packaged food & beverages 

According to SNAP program guidelines, EBT can only be used to purchase prepackaged food items that carry a nutrition label and are not hot or made to order. At Starbucks locations inside grocery stores, you may be able to use EBT to purchase items such as: 

• Bottled cold coffee drinks like Starbucks Frappuccino or cold brew from the refrigerated section 
• Packaged snacks such as cookies, granola bars, or chips 
• Prepackaged sandwiches that are not heated 
• Ground or whole bean coffee (sold in larger bags in the grocery section) 

These items are considered “eligible SNAP items” because they are not hot, prepared foods intended for immediate consumption. This is also why many people search for questions like “Does Starbucks accept EBT for cold drinks?”, because bottled cold drinks sold at in-store Starbucks locations in Target are often SNAP-eligible and can be purchased with EBT when checked out through the grocery store’s main register system. 

Non-eligible purchases at Starbucks 

On the flip side, EBT rules strictly prohibit spending on hot meals, made-to-order drinks, or anything intended for immediate consumption like:  

• Freshly brewed hot coffee (espresso, latte, cappuccino) 
• Cold drinks that are custom-mixed at the counter  
• Heated or made-to-order sandwiches 
• You won’t be able to pay with EBT for warm pastries like croissants or muffins that are reheated from the bakery case. 
• Starbucks gift cards or non-food merchandise 

Even if you’re shopping at a Starbucks kiosk inside a Target, you still cannot use EBT to buy hot drinks or freshly prepared foods, as these fall under the “prepared foods” category, which is not covered by SNAP benefits. 

3. Extended Benefits You Can Get with EBT

While EBT card is commonly used to purchase groceries through the SNAP program, many EBT users are unaware that their benefits can unlock access to a range of other government assistance programs, including free or discounted phone and internet services through the Lifeline program. 

What is the Lifeline program? 

The Lifeline program is a federal initiative managed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to ensure that low-income households can stay connected to essential communication services. 

If you are currently enrolled in SNAP and receiving benefits through an EBT card, you are automatically eligible for Lifeline. You just need to provide valid documentation to verify your participation. 

How to apply using your SNAP/EBT participation?

To apply for the Lifeline program, you will need to submit one of the following documents as proof that you are receiving SNAP benefits: 

• Notices of Action
• Notices of Approval
• Verification of Benefits Letters

Your EBT card may also be required as part of the identity verification process.

What can you get through Lifeline? 

One of the trusted providers participating in the Lifeline program is AirTalk Wireless, known for its fast and reliable service. 

The benefits you may receive from reputable providers like AirTalk Wireless through the Lifeline program include: 

• A free smartphone (from brands like Apple or Samsung, depending on availability) 
• Unlimited talk and text 
• Free monthly data (ranging from 5GB to 15GB per month) 
• Free international calling to many countries around the world 
• A fast approval process when submitting complete SNAP documentation 

Beyond Lifeline, your SNAP/EBT participation may also qualify you for: WIC (Women, Infants, and Children), the National School Lunch Program (NSLP), Medicaid, or Housing assistance programs. 

By learning how to use your EBT benefits beyond just purchasing food, you can stretch the value of your card even further and gain access to valuable resources that help improve your quality of life.

Final Words 

Although the answer to “Does Starbucks accept EBT?” is generally no for standalone stores, select Starbucks kiosks located inside retailers like Target or Safeway may allow you to use EBT for eligible items. To truly maximize your benefits, always double-check which products qualify and explore other valuable government programs like Lifeline to access essential services that support your everyday life.