{"id":17091,"date":"2025-09-30T10:01:12","date_gmt":"2025-09-30T10:01:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/blog\/?p=17091"},"modified":"2026-01-06T16:45:26","modified_gmt":"2026-01-06T16:45:26","slug":"can-you-buy-candy-with-ebt","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/blog\/can-you-buy-candy-with-ebt","title":{"rendered":"Can You Buy Candy with EBT? What You Can Get Today and Upcoming Limits"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">The fact is, SNAP benefits make most everyday groceries accessible, and for the most part, you can buy a wide range of foods with your EBT card without issue. For now, the choices are surprisingly broad, and there\u2019s plenty you can get today. Can you buy candy with EBT? Sure.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">1. How SNAP Works<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">SNAP is the largest nutrition assistance program in the country. It plays a critical role in reducing poverty.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">The program provides food-purchasing assistance to low-income individuals and families. Its primary goal is to help ensure that all residents, regardless of their income, can afford nutritious food essential for their health and well-being.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">SNAP benefits are provided on an EBT card. They can be used to buy most food and food products for human consumption.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/what-is-snap-1024x1024.png\" alt=\"snap ebt program\" class=\"wp-image-13584\" style=\"width:800px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/what-is-snap-1024x1024.png 1024w, https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/what-is-snap-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/what-is-snap-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/what-is-snap-768x768.png 768w, https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/what-is-snap.png 1080w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-background\" style=\"background-color:#f1f1f1\"><i><em><span data-contrast=\"none\">&gt;&gt;&gt; <\/span><\/em><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/blog\/when-does-ebt-reload\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><em><span data-contrast=\"none\">When does EBT reload in your area?<\/span><\/em><\/a><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\"><em>&nbsp;<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">2. What Can You Buy with Your EBT Card? Can You Buy Candy with EBT?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Most food and food products for human consumption can be purchased with EBT. These include:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"none\"><strong>Fruits and vegetables<\/strong> \u2013 All fresh, frozen, and canned produce such as apples, bananas, carrots, potatoes, lettuce, and mixed frozen vegetables.&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span data-contrast=\"none\"><strong>Meat, poultry, and fish <\/strong>\u2013 Beef, chicken, turkey, pork, lamb, as well as items like ground beef, whole chickens, salmon fillets, or canned tuna, etc.&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span data-contrast=\"none\"><strong>Dairy products<\/strong> \u2013 Milk, cheese, butter, yogurt, and other dairy-based items.&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span data-contrast=\"none\"><strong>Bread, cereal, rice, and pasta<\/strong> \u2013 Packaged bread, bagels, tortillas, breakfast cereals, oatmeal, rice, noodles, spaghetti, etc.&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span data-contrast=\"none\"><strong>Staple pantry items<\/strong> \u2013 Cooking oils, flour, sugar, spices, and condiments that are used to prepare meals at home, etc.&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span data-contrast=\"none\"><strong>Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages<\/strong> \u2013 Chips, pretzels, popcorn, cookies, snack cakes, ice cream, soda, fruit juice, bottled water, etc.&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">For now, you can purchase snacks and beverages, including <strong>candy<\/strong>, chips, cookies, snack foods, soda, and soft drinks, with your EBT card.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Besides, special items are SNAP-eligible:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"none\">Seeds and food-producing plants (e.g., tomato seeds, pepper plants)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:280,&quot;335559739&quot;:280}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span data-contrast=\"none\">Energy drinks (only if labeled with Nutrition Facts, not \u201cSupplement Facts\u201d)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:280,&quot;335559739&quot;:280}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span data-contrast=\"none\">Birthday cakes (the edible portion qualifies; non-edible decorations may need to be paid separately)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:280,&quot;335559739&quot;:280}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/blog\/surprising-things-you-can-buy-with-ebt\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Other surprising things you can buy with EBT<\/span><\/a><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:280,&quot;335559739&quot;:280}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"406\" src=\"https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/can-you-buy-candy-with-ebt-2-1.jpg\" alt=\"can you buy candy with EBT 2\" class=\"wp-image-32211\" srcset=\"https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/can-you-buy-candy-with-ebt-2-1.jpg 800w, https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/can-you-buy-candy-with-ebt-2-1-300x152.jpg 300w, https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/can-you-buy-candy-with-ebt-2-1-768x390.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em><span data-contrast=\"none\">Can you buy candy with your EBT card? Yes, nationwi<\/span>de.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">3. Exceptions: When Can\u2019t You Buy Candy? (State-Specific Rules)<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Although federal law permits SNAP recipients to buy candy, soda, and other snack foods with their benefits, the rules are beginning to shift <a href=\"https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/blog\/snap-2025-changes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">at the state level<\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has granted several states permission to experiment with waivers that <strong>limit or ban certain \u201cjunk food\u201d items<\/strong>.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">These waivers reflect a growing movement among policymakers to address concerns about diet-related chronic diseases, such as obesity and diabetes, by restricting access to sugary drinks, candy, and other highly processed foods within the SNAP program.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">List of states with new SNAP restrictions:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><tbody><tr><td><span data-contrast=\"none\"><strong>State<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span data-contrast=\"none\"><strong>Restricted Items&nbsp;<\/strong><\/span><\/td><td><span data-contrast=\"none\"><strong>Effective Date&nbsp;<\/strong><\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span data-contrast=\"none\">Arkansas<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span data-contrast=\"none\">Soda, low and no-calorie soda, fruit and vegetable drinks with<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">less than 50% natural juice, other unhealthy drinks, and <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">candy<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td><td><span data-contrast=\"none\">July 1, 2026<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span data-contrast=\"none\">Colorado<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span data-contrast=\"none\">Soft drinks<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span data-contrast=\"none\">March 1, 2026<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span data-contrast=\"none\">Florida<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span data-contrast=\"none\">Soda, energy drinks, <strong>candy<\/strong>, and prepared desserts&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span data-contrast=\"none\">January 1, 2026<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span data-contrast=\"none\">Idaho<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span data-contrast=\"none\">Soda and <strong>candy<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span data-contrast=\"none\">January 1, 2026<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span data-contrast=\"none\">Indiana<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span data-contrast=\"none\">Soft drinks and <strong>candy<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span data-contrast=\"none\">January 1, 2026<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span data-contrast=\"none\">Iowa<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span data-contrast=\"none\">All taxable food items under Iowa law as defined by the Iowa Department of Revenue&nbsp;<\/span><br><span data-contrast=\"none\">(including <strong>candy<\/strong>)<\/span><\/td><td><span data-contrast=\"none\">January 1, 2026<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span data-contrast=\"none\">Louisiana<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span data-contrast=\"none\">Soft drinks, energy drinks, and <strong>candy<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span data-contrast=\"none\">January 15, 2026<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span data-contrast=\"none\">Nebraska<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span data-contrast=\"none\">Soda, soft drinks, or energy drinks<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span data-contrast=\"none\">January 1, 2026<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span data-contrast=\"none\">Oklahoma<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span data-contrast=\"none\"><strong>Candy<\/strong>, soft drinks&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span data-contrast=\"none\">January 1, 2026<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span data-contrast=\"none\">Texas<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span data-contrast=\"none\">Sweetened drinks and <strong>candy<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span data-contrast=\"none\">April 1, 2026<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span data-contrast=\"none\">Utah<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span data-contrast=\"none\">Soft drinks&nbsp;<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span data-contrast=\"none\">January 1, 2026<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span data-contrast=\"none\">West Virginia<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span data-contrast=\"none\">Soda<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span data-contrast=\"none\">January 1, 2026<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\"><strong>Note:&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">These changes are a result of state-specific waivers and are not yet in effect. The rules for what can be purchased with SNAP benefits remain unchanged until their respective effective dates in 2026.&nbsp;<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">As of now, you can still use your SNAP benefits to purchase candy, soda, and other similar items in all states.&nbsp;<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">In 2026, candy will no longer be eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits in Arkansas, Florida, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" src=\"https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/can-you-buy-candy-with-ebt-3.jpg\" alt=\"can you buy candy with EBT 3\" class=\"wp-image-18774\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/can-you-buy-candy-with-ebt-3.jpg 800w, https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/can-you-buy-candy-with-ebt-3-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/can-you-buy-candy-with-ebt-3-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><span data-contrast=\"none\"><em>Can you buy candy with EBT? Yes, nationwide\u2026but just next year, in certain states, the answer will shift to no.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/em><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">4. What Can You Not Buy with EBT?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Certain items are not allowed to be purchased with SNAP benefits across the country.&nbsp;<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">These include<\/span>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\"><strong>Non-food items<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">EBT is only for food. You cannot use your benefits for:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"none\">Household supplies (cleaning products, paper goods, soap, shampoo, toothpaste)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:280,&quot;335559739&quot;:280}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span data-contrast=\"none\">Pet food<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:280,&quot;335559739&quot;:280}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span data-contrast=\"none\">Cosmetics and personal care products<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:280,&quot;335559739&quot;:280}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span data-contrast=\"none\">Vitamins, medicines, or supplements (anything with a Supplement Facts label)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:280,&quot;335559739&quot;:280}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\"><strong>Alcohol and tobacco<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">EBT cannot be used to purchase:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"none\">Beer, wine, or liquor<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:280,&quot;335559739&quot;:280}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span data-contrast=\"none\">Cigarettes, cigars, or other tobacco products<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:280,&quot;335559739&quot;:280}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\"><strong>Hot and prepared foods<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">You cannot buy hot foods and foods that are ready-to-eat at the point of sale (unless you live in a state with the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/blog\/restaurants-that-accept-ebt\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Restaurant <\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"><a href=\"https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/blog\/restaurants-that-accept-ebt\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">M<\/a><\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/blog\/restaurants-that-accept-ebt\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">eals Program<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> for the eligible SNAP recipients)<\/span>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-background\" style=\"background-color:#f1f1f1\">&gt;&gt;&gt; <em>Read more: <a href=\"https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/blog\/ebt-eligible-items-non-food\">EBT-Eligible Items (Non-Food): Things You Can Buy with EBT<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">5. Get Internet &amp; Free Phone Support with SNAP<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">In addition to helping with food purchases, receiving SNAP benefits can also make you eligible for other assistance programs, including internet support programs. One of the most popular programs is <strong>Lifeline<\/strong>.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">The goal of the Lifeline program is to ensure that everyone can afford essential connectivity services, which are important for staying connected with family and friends.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-1 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/lifeline-application?utm_source=blog&amp;utm_medium=article&amp;utm_campaign=GOV101_can_you_buy_candy_with_ebt_FREEL_NGO\" style=\"background-color:#248fe9\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Get Free Phone with Free Internet<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">One of the easiest and most common ways to qualify for the Lifeline program is by receiving benefits from other government assistance programs.&nbsp;<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">SNAP recipients are often <strong>automatically eligible <\/strong>for Lifeline benefits, which include phone or internet discounts and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/blog\/free-phone-service-food-stamps\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">a free smartphone from participating providers<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">If you receive SNAP benefits, contact participating telecommunications providers in the Lifeline program like <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/?utm_source=blog&amp;utm_medium=article&amp;utm_campaign=GOV101_can_you_buy_candy_with_ebt_FREEL_NGO\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">AirTalk Wireless<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> to learn more and apply for support.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed aligncenter is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"AirTalk: How to claim your Free Phone and Plan (Step-by-step)\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/6z3Moqy7f9E?start=3&#038;feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Conclusion&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">For now, SNAP recipients can still use their EBT cards to purchase candy and soda alongside basic staples like fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, and bread. These items remain fully eligible under federal law.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">It\u2019s only in the years ahead, as states begin implementing new restrictions starting in 2026, that some of these \u201ctreats\u201d may no longer be eligible.&nbsp;<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">The impact of these changes will vary depending on where you live. In most states, SNAP recipients will still be able to buy snacks as usual. Can you buy candy with EBT? Just next year, in certain states, the answer will shift to no.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The fact is, SNAP benefits make most everyday groceries accessible, and for the most part, you can buy a wide range of foods with your EBT card without issue. For now, the choices are surprisingly broad, and there\u2019s plenty you can get today. Can you buy candy with EBT? Sure.&nbsp; 1. How SNAP Works SNAP [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1909,"featured_media":18770,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[103,596],"tags":[],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/can-you-buy-candy-with-ebt.jpg","featured_image_src_square":"https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/can-you-buy-candy-with-ebt.jpg","author_info":{"display_name":"Nina Campbell","author_link":"https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/blog\/author\/ninacamp\/"},"rbea_author_info":{"display_name":"Nina Campbell","author_link":"https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/blog\/author\/ninacamp\/"},"rbea_excerpt_info":"The fact is, SNAP benefits make most everyday groceries accessible, and for the most part, you can buy a wide range of foods with your EBT card without issue. For now, the choices are surprisingly broad, and there\u2019s plenty you can get today. Can you buy candy with EBT? Sure.&nbsp; 1. How SNAP Works SNAP [&hellip;]","category_list":"<a href=\"https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/blog\/government-assistance-101\" rel=\"category tag\">Government Assistance 101<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/blog\/government-assistance-101\/snap-ebt-benefits\" rel=\"category tag\">SNAP\/Food Stamps<\/a>","comments_num":"0 comments","amp_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17091"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1909"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=17091"}],"version-history":[{"count":9,"href":"https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17091\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":32212,"href":"https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17091\/revisions\/32212"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/18770"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=17091"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=17091"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/airtalkwireless.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=17091"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}