Can I Use an EBT Card for Soda? Understanding SNAP Rules

December 18, 2025 •

3 min read

Recent announcements show that some states are restricting soda purchases for SNAP recipients, prompting many to ask if they can still use an EBT card for soda. While federal rules have long permitted purchasing most non-alcoholic beverages with a nutritional label, including soda, this is now changing across the country. This article will explore the evolving federal and state-level policies governing what you can buy with your EBT card.

Quick Summary

The ability to purchase soda with an EBT card depends on federal rules and recent state-specific waivers. While traditionally permitted, an increasing number of states are implementing restrictions on sugary and artificially sweetened drinks. This comprehensive guide details the current eligibility guidelines, the reasons for recent changes, and what SNAP recipients can expect in the coming months.

Key Points

State-Level Restrictions: Many states are banning soda purchases with EBT, with most changes taking effect in 2026.
Federal vs. State Rules: Federal SNAP guidelines traditionally permit soda, but individual states can receive waivers to create stricter rules.
Check Your State's Policy: The eligibility of soda and other sweetened drinks now varies by state, so recipients must check local guidelines.
Public Health Debate: Restrictions are driven by public health goals to reduce chronic disease, but critics question the impact on individual choice.
Retailer Enforcement: Stores accepting EBT must update systems to automatically decline non-eligible items at the checkout.
Resource for Information: The USDA's Food and Nutrition Service website and state-specific government sites are the best places for current information.

Federal SNAP Rules on Soda Purchases

For many years, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) has had relatively broad guidelines on eligible food items. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) oversees SNAP and has historically allowed beneficiaries to purchase almost any food item with a "Nutrition Facts" label. This included many non-alcoholic beverages like soda and energy drinks. The main federal restrictions have been on non-food items, hot prepared foods, and alcoholic beverages.

The Shift Toward State-Level Restrictions

A movement has grown to implement stricter limits on SNAP purchases, particularly targeting high-sugar items like soda. Supporters argue this promotes healthier eating and combats chronic health issues. The USDA is now approving state waiver requests to enact stricter rules. As of late 2025, over a dozen states have received or are implementing these waivers, with many bans starting in 2026.

State-by-State Breakdown of New Soda Restrictions

Restrictions vary by state, some targeting specific types of sweeteners or drinks. It's important to know your state's rules.

Arkansas: As of July 1, 2026, soda, candy, and fruit drinks with less than 50% real juice will be banned.
Idaho: Starting January 1, 2026, soda and non-alcoholic beverages with natural or artificial sweeteners will be banned, with some exceptions.
Indiana: In early 2026, soft drinks, including most sweetened non-alcoholic beverages, will be ineligible.
Iowa: Iowa will exclude soda, flavored water, and juice drinks with less than half fruit content.
Nebraska: Soft drinks and energy drinks with stimulants will be banned, but sports drinks like Gatorade will still be eligible.
Texas: From April 1, 2026, drinks with artificial sweeteners or more than five grams of added sugar will be prohibited.
Utah: Utah plans to ban carbonated soft drinks that are both flavored and sweetened starting January 1, 2026.

How Will These Restrictions Be Enforced?

Stores accepting EBT will update their systems to automatically decline restricted items. This is similar to how non-eligible items like alcohol are currently handled. State health and human services commissions are responsible for educating retailers and ensuring compliance.

Comparison of EBT and WIC Eligibility

Comparing SNAP (EBT) with WIC (Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children) provides useful context. WIC has a much more restrictive list focused on specific nutritious foods.


Feature	SNAP (EBT)	WIC
Purpose	Supplements grocery budgets for low-income families.	Provides specific nutritious foods for pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding women, and infants and children up to age five.
General Eligibility	Broad range of groceries, traditionally including soda.	Highly specific list of foods, strictly for nutritional purposes.
Soda Eligibility	Historically eligible, but now being restricted in a growing number of states.	Never eligible. The program focuses on milk, fruits, vegetables, and other specific healthy items.
Beverage Focus	Broadly non-alcoholic with a nutrition label.	Unflavored milk, 100% juice, and specific milk substitutes.
Program Scope	Nationwide, with recent state-specific variances.	Nationwide, with strict federal and state guidelines.

The Reasoning Behind the New Policies

Supporters of soda bans highlight public health concerns, arguing that sugary drinks contribute to chronic diseases, especially in low-income communities. By restricting these purchases with benefits, states aim to encourage healthier choices and potentially reduce future healthcare costs. Critics argue these bans limit individual autonomy and question their effectiveness in improving health outcomes. Some studies suggest SNAP participants' spending on soda is similar to non-participants, and that the cost of healthy foods is a bigger barrier.

How to Check Your State's Rules

For the most current information, consult your state's Health and Human Services or Family and Children Services website. These sites will detail specific waivers and timelines. The USDA's Food and Nutrition Service website is the federal source for SNAP information. https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap is the official resource.

Conclusion

The question "Can I use an EBT card for soda?" has a changing answer. While federally permissible in the past, many states are implementing bans on sugary and sweetened drinks starting in 2026. This reflects an ongoing debate about public health and personal choice in assistance programs. SNAP recipients need to be aware of their state's specific rules as policies evolve.

Frequently Asked Questions

As of late 2025, states that have received waivers and will restrict soda purchases in 2026 include Arkansas, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Nebraska, Texas, and Utah. More states are considering or have applied for similar waivers.

States are banning sugary drinks to promote healthier eating habits among SNAP recipients and combat health issues like obesity and diabetes. The rationale is to ensure that federal benefits are used for nutritious foods.

Yes, in states that have not implemented a specific waiver, you can currently use your EBT card to purchase soda and other non-alcoholic beverages with a nutritional label. However, it is essential to stay informed as more states may adopt restrictions.

Yes, but with the same state-specific restrictions. If your state has a waiver banning soda, the online retailer's system will prevent the purchase of those items with EBT. You may need to use a separate payment method for non-eligible products.

No, the restrictions vary. Some states ban all sweetened sodas and soft drinks, while others have specific rules regarding sugar content, artificial sweeteners, or juice content. For example, some waivers exclude milk-based drinks or 100% fruit juice.

At the point of sale, the system will automatically decline the purchase of any item deemed ineligible by the state's rules. The cashier will inform you that the item cannot be paid for with your EBT card, and you will need to use an alternative payment method.

Yes, some states have included other items like candy, chips, and cookies in their waivers, in addition to sweetened beverages. The specific list of restricted items depends on the individual state's waiver.