What is Not EBT Approved? A Guide to Ineligible Purchases

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, SNAP benefits cannot be used for any non-food items, such as pet food, soap, paper products, and household supplies. Understanding what is not EBT approved is critical for managing household budgets and ensuring a smooth checkout process at grocery stores and authorized retailers.

Quick Summary

A comprehensive overview of items excluded from EBT purchases, including non-food products, hot prepared foods, alcohol, tobacco, and dietary supplements. It explains the federal guidelines governing SNAP eligibility and details specific ineligible items to help shoppers avoid confusion.

Key Points

• Hot Foods: Any food that is hot at the point of sale, such as a deli rotisserie chicken or hot soup, is not EBT approved.

• Non-Food Items: EBT benefits cannot be used for household supplies like paper towels or cleaning products, or for personal care items like soap and deodorant.

• Alcohol and Tobacco: It is illegal to purchase any form of alcohol or tobacco products with an EBT card.

• Vitamins and Supplements: Items with a 'Supplement Facts' label are ineligible. This includes most vitamins, dietary supplements, and some energy drinks.

• Pet Food: The rules are strict; you cannot use EBT to buy food or supplies for pets.

• State-Specific Rules: Some states have secured waivers to ban purchases of items like candy and certain sweetened drinks, with changes beginning in 2026.

Understanding the Core Rules of EBT Eligibility

The Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card is used to distribute Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, formerly known as food stamps. The primary rule for EBT-eligible purchases is that the item must be for human consumption and carry a 'Nutrition Facts' label. Items with a 'Supplement Facts' label, or those that are not food, are generally not covered. While the rules are mostly uniform across the country, certain exceptions apply, such as the Restaurant Meals Program in select states for qualifying individuals.

Ineligible Non-Food Items

Many common items in a grocery store are not EBT eligible because they are considered non-food items. This includes household supplies like paper products and cleaning items, hygiene products such as soap and shampoo, and pet food. Vitamins, supplements, and items with a 'Supplement Facts' label are also ineligible. Live animals are generally not eligible, with limited exceptions for some seafood.

The 'Hot Food' and Restaurant Rule

Hot, prepared foods are typically not eligible for purchase with EBT. This restriction applies to items like hot rotisserie chickens and hot soup from a store's deli. A few states have a Restaurant Meals Program allowing certain eligible recipients to buy meals at authorized restaurants.

Prohibited and Unapproved Substances

Alcoholic beverages and tobacco products are always prohibited.

State-Specific Restrictions

Some states have received waivers to impose additional restrictions on certain items, sometimes referred to as 'junk food'. States like Texas, Florida, and Iowa are implementing restrictions on items such as candy, certain soft drinks, and prepared desserts.

Ineligible vs. Eligible Items Comparison

Category	EBT Eligible Items	EBT Ineligible Items
Prepared Foods	Cold deli sandwiches, refrigerated salads, uncooked take-and-bake pizza.	Hot rotisserie chickens, hot deli soup, hot pizza slices.
Beverages	Bottled water, juice, milk, energy drinks with a Nutrition Facts label.	Alcoholic drinks, energy drinks with a Supplement Facts label, hot coffee.
Health & Wellness	Food with a Nutrition Facts label, such as protein bars.	Vitamins, supplements, medicines, and any item with a Supplement Facts label.
Household Items	N/A	Paper products (toilet paper, paper towels), cleaning supplies, soap.
Other	Seeds and plants that produce food.	Pet food, live animals (except some seafood).

Conclusion: Navigating EBT Purchases with Confidence

Knowing what is not EBT approved helps you effectively use your benefits and avoid issues at checkout. SNAP benefits are for food meant to be prepared and eaten at home. While most groceries are covered, non-food items, hot prepared foods, alcohol, and tobacco are excluded. Stay informed about your state's rules to use your benefits without confusion. The goal is to provide food security for your household's nutritional needs.

USDA FNS - What Can SNAP Buy?

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my EBT card for hot foods at a deli or fast food restaurant?

No, you cannot use your EBT card for hot, prepared foods meant for immediate consumption, like a hot rotisserie chicken or soup from a buffet. A limited number of states operate a Restaurant Meals Program for eligible individuals, but this is an exception, not the rule.

Are personal hygiene products like soap and deodorant EBT approved?

No, non-food items like soap, toothpaste, shampoo, and deodorant are not approved for EBT purchase.

Can I buy energy drinks with my EBT card?

This depends on the label. If the energy drink has a 'Nutrition Facts' label, it is generally eligible. If it has a 'Supplement Facts' label, it is considered a supplement and is not approved.

Is pet food covered by EBT benefits?

No, pet food and other pet supplies are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.

Can I use EBT for household supplies like toilet paper and cleaning products?

No, household items such as paper products, cleaning supplies, and laundry detergent are considered non-food and cannot be purchased with an EBT card.

What about alcohol and tobacco? Can I buy them with EBT?

No, the purchase of any alcoholic beverages or tobacco products is strictly prohibited with SNAP benefits.

Are there any state-specific items that are not EBT approved?

Yes, some states have secured waivers to restrict purchases of certain items like candy and specific sweetened drinks. It's important to check the specific rules in your state, as these can vary.