Many North Carolina families rely on EBT each month, but not everyone knows exactly “what can you buy with EBT in NC”. The program, managed by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS), provides monthly SNAP benefits to help residents afford healthy groceries.
In this guide, you’ll learn how EBT works in North Carolina, where you can use your card, and which foods are covered under SNAP. You’ll also find out what items are restricted and how Lifeline providers help EBT users in North Carolina stay connected with free government phones.
How EBT Works in North Carolina
The North Carolina EBT program provides monthly food assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Eligible residents receive benefits on an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card that works like a debit card at grocery stores and markets across the state.
Once your application is approved, your benefits are automatically added to your card every month. You can check your balance, view transactions, and monitor deposits through the EBT Edge mobile app or by calling the number on the back of your card. The program’s goal is to help families afford healthy groceries while improving nutrition across North Carolina communities.
Where You Can Use EBT in NC
You can use your EBT card at thousands of authorized retailers throughout North Carolina. Most grocery stores, supermarkets, and convenience stores accept SNAP payments. Just look for the “We Accept EBT” sign near the entrance or at checkout.
Common places where you can use EBT in NC include:
- Major chains like Walmart, Food Lion, and Aldi
- Local grocery stores and neighborhood markets
- Participating farmers markets across the state
- Select online grocery retailers that accept EBT for home delivery or pickup orders
EBT is not limited to large cities. Rural areas in North Carolina also have authorized stores that accept SNAP, making it easier for residents everywhere to access healthy food.
>>> Learn more: What Is EBT Cash? What You Can Use It For
What You Can Buy With EBT in North Carolina
If you’re wondering what you can buy with EBT in NC, the list is broad and includes most grocery and household food staples. The North Carolina SNAP program allows purchases that help families prepare balanced meals at home or buy essential baby and snack items.
Here are the main categories of food you can buy with your North Carolina EBT card:
Basic Groceries
- Breads, cereals, rice, and pasta
- Bottled water, milk, and other beverages
- Fresh, frozen, or canned fruits and vegetables
- Meat, poultry, and seafood including lobster, fish, and shellfish
- Dairy products such as cheese, yogurt, and butter
Baby and Infant Products
- Infant formula and baby cereals
- Juices, baby food, and boxed or jarred meals for infants
Snacks and Pantry Items
- Soft drinks, candy, cookies, snack crackers, and ice cream
- Energy drinks that have a Nutrition Facts label (not “Supplement Facts”)
- Bakery cakes, pastries, and dessert items
- Gift baskets where non-food items make up less than 50% of the total value
Seeds and Plants
- Seeds and starter plants that produce food for your household to eat, such as tomatoes or herbs
- Pumpkins and other edible plants that can be grown or cooked
Restaurant or Prepared Meals (Limited Access)
In certain areas, restaurants can accept North Carolina EBT cards through the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP). This program is limited to qualified homeless, elderly, or disabled individuals who cannot prepare meals at home.
Using your North Carolina EBT card for these approved purchases ensures you get the most value from your SNAP benefits while staying within the program’s rules.
>>> Learn more: EBT-Eligible Items (Non-Food): Things You Can Buy with EBT
What Is Not Covered on an EBT Card in NC
While the SNAP program covers most grocery items, there are several products that you cannot buy with your North Carolina EBT card. These restrictions ensure that benefits are used for nutritional food rather than non-essential or non-food items.
Here’s what is not covered under SNAP in North Carolina:
- Baby diapers and baby wipes
- Beer, wine, or liquor
- Cigarettes, vaping products, or other tobacco items
- Non-food household items such as pet food, soap, paper products, or cleaning supplies
- Vitamins, medicines, and dietary supplements
- Hot foods or any food meant to be eaten in the store
- Prepared restaurant meals, unless you qualify for the limited Restaurant Meals Program
- Grooming items and cosmetics
- Energy drinks labeled with “Supplement Facts” (these are classified as supplements by the FDA)
- Live animals or birds, except fish or shellfish intended for cooking
When shopping, remember that if your purchase includes both eligible and ineligible items, your EBT card will only cover the approved food portion. Always check product labels to make sure you’re using your benefits properly.
Can EBT Users Get Free Phones in NC?
Yes. If you receive EBT or SNAP benefits, you may qualify for a free government phone through the Lifeline Program with a licensed providers. This program helps low-income residents stay connected to essential services, job opportunities, and family members.
Applying is quick and free. Follow these simple steps:
- Go to the AirTalk Wireless provider’s main website.
- Enter zip code to check whether service is available in your state
- Confirm that you receive EBT, SNAP, Medicaid, or another qualifying benefit.
- Complete the online application and upload valid proof of eligibility if required (your EBT card cannot be used as proof).
- Choose your free smartphone and wait for delivery right to your address.
With your free phone, you can check your EBT balance, receive alerts about SNAP updates, and manage your benefits easily from anywhere in North Carolina.
FAQs
Can I buy rotisserie chicken with EBT at Walmart?
No. Rotisserie chicken and other hot prepared foods cannot be purchased with EBT in North Carolina. You can, however, buy cooked or cold deli items that are not heated for immediate consumption.
Can I buy hot food with EBT in North Carolina?
Normally, no. SNAP benefits cannot be used to buy hot food meant to be eaten right away. However, certain areas may participate in the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) for elderly, homeless, or disabled individuals who cannot prepare food at home.
Does Lowe’s Foods Take EBT in NC?
Yes. Lowe’s Foods accepts EBT for eligible SNAP purchases at all of its store locations across North Carolina. You can buy groceries, produce, meat, and other approved food items using your EBT card.
Final Words
Understanding “what can you buy with EBT in NC” helps you make the most of your monthly food benefits and stay within SNAP guidelines. North Carolina offers a wide selection of EBT-approved foods that make meal planning simple and affordable.If you receive SNAP or EBT benefits, take one more step to stay connected. Apply for a free phone through AirTalk Wireless today and manage your benefits, check updates, and access essential online services anytime.