In 2025, with SNAP benefits averaging $281 per person after a 2.5% COLA adjustment, over 42 million Americans use EBT cards to combat food insecurity. While SNAP focuses on nutritious groceries for home preparation, eligible items extend beyond basics—surprising shoppers with options like meal replacement shakes and vegetable seeds. However, restrictions on hot foods and non-essentials ensure funds target health. This guide, based on USDA guidelines, clarifies what you can buy with EBT, highlights unexpected purchases, and addresses common queries for efficient shopping at Walmart, Costco, or online.
EBT Basics: What SNAP Covers
EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) delivers SNAP funds via a debit-like card for food purchases at authorized retailers. Benefits load monthly and roll over if unused, but expire after 9-12 months depending on the state. SNAP targets households with income below 130% of the Federal Poverty Level ($21,128 for one in 2025), prioritizing nutrition over convenience.
Surprising Eligible Items: Beyond Staples
SNAP allows any food for home consumption with a “Nutrition Facts” label—expanding possibilities:
- Protein Powder and Shakes: Yes, if labeled as food (e.g., Equate or Six Star Whey at Walmart). Ideal for fitness; avoid “Supplement Facts” versions.
- Energy Drinks and Beverages: Cold options like Red Bull or iced coffee qualify; skip hot brews.
- Seeds and Plants: Vegetable/herb starters for home gardens promote self-sufficiency.
- Cold Prepared Foods: Deli salads, cheeses, or rotisserie chicken (if cold at checkout)—perfect for quick meals.
- Bakery and Treats: Cakes, cookies, and snack baskets for celebrations, as long as not hot.
- Baby Formula and Snacks: Enfamil or Pedialyte; even lactation cookies if nutrition-labeled.
- Frozen and Canned Goods: Pizza, seafood (lobster!), or pre-cut fruits—convenient and nutritious.
At Walmart or Costco, filter “EBT eligible” online for seamless pickup/delivery.
Ineligible Items: Clear Boundaries
SNAP excludes non-foods and prepared meals to maintain focus:
- Hot Foods: Rotisserie chicken (heated) or restaurant items—no exceptions in most states.
- Alcohol and Tobacco: Beer, wine, cigarettes—strictly prohibited.
- Vitamins/Supplements: Unless food-labeled (e.g., gummy vitamins as snacks).
- Pet Food/Household Items: Dog/cat food, toilet paper—use EBT cash if available.
- Non-Food Gifts: Toys, flowers, or gift cards.
Cash benefits (e.g., TANF) cover non-foods, but SNAP is food-only.
Using EBT: Eligibility and Documents
Eligibility
- Household income ≤130% FPL ($21,128/individual).
- U.S. citizen/resident; children/students often qualify via free lunch.
- Apply via state portals (e.g., mydhr.alabama.gov for AL).
Required Documents
- ID (driver’s license, passport).
- Income proof (pay stubs, tax return).
- Residency (utility bill).
- Benefits letter for recertification.
Scan clearly for online apps; processing takes 30 days max.
State Variations and Online Shopping
Rules are federal, but states differ: Texas allows hot food at some vendors; California expands online EBT at Amazon/Walmart. Use Instacart or Walmart+ for delivery (EBT covers groceries only).
FAQs
Can you buy protein powder with EBT? Yes, if nutrition-labeled.
Can you buy dog food with EBT? No for SNAP; yes with cash benefits.
Can you buy formula with EBT? Yes, including Enfamil.
Can you buy vitamins with EBT? Only food-form (e.g., gummies).
Can you buy soda with EBT? Yes, but moderation advised for health.
What can you not buy with EBT? Hot foods, alcohol, non-foods.
Can you buy hot food with EBT? Generally no; state exceptions rare.
What can you buy with EBT at Walmart online? Groceries only; filter eligible.
Conclusion
EBT empowers nutritious choices, from surprising staples like seeds to everyday treats like cold deli items, supporting 42 million in 2025. Shop wisely—prioritize health over impulse—and verify labels at checkout. For state-specific rules or free tech via SNAP (laptops/iPads), visit freelaptopsfromgovernment.com/ebt-resources.
About the Author: As a certified benefits advisor with 10+ years at USDA nonprofits, I specialize in SNAP navigation, ensuring accurate, actionable advice from official guidelines.
