What Can You Spend EBT On?

EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) cards for SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits can buy groceries, seeds, and plants that produce food. These cards cannot purchase alcohol, tobacco, or prepared hot foods.

How EBT Works

EBT functions like a debit card. Recipients receive benefits electronically on their cards, which they use to purchase approved items at authorized retailers. The system deducts the cost of purchases from the available balance.

Main Types of Approved Purchases

SNAP benefits cover many food items. Here are the main categories:

Foods for the household to eat: Bread, cereals, fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, poultry, dairy products, and non-alcoholic beverages.
Seeds and plants: Items that produce food for the household to eat, such as vegetable seeds or fruit-bearing plants.

Common Restrictions

While SNAP benefits cover many essential food items, there are strict limitations. The USDA prohibits using EBT for:

Alcohol, including beer, wine, and liquor.
Tobacco products.
Non-food items, such as pet supplies, paper products, and household goods.
Hot prepared foods, like those sold at deli counters or in grocery store hot bars.
Vitamins, medicines, and supplements.
Foods meant to be eaten in the store, like cafeteria meals.

Where You Can Use EBT

EBT cards are accepted at most grocery stores, convenience stores, and some farmers markets. Some online retailers, like Amazon and Walmart, also accept EBT for eligible purchases. However, benefits cannot be used at restaurants, except in limited circumstances for homeless, elderly, or disabled individuals.

Common Misconceptions

Many people mistakenly believe EBT can be used for non-food items or prepared foods. In reality, the program strictly limits purchases to food items intended for home preparation and consumption. Another misconception is that EBT can be used at any retail location; however, only authorized retailers display the USDA logo indicating they accept SNAP benefits.

For example, a recipient can use their EBT card to buy a carton of milk, a loaf of bread, and a bag of apples at a grocery store. However, they cannot use the same card to purchase a pre-made sandwich from the deli or a pack of cigarettes.