It's not always easy to tell what gets covered when using EBT. Learn more about what EBT is, and check out our list of 10 things that might surprise you.
You ever stand in the grocery aisle doing mental math, trying to figure out if you can pay for everything in the cart and deciding between what you need versus what you really need in case the math doesn't add up at the register? Yeah. That's real. And you're not the only one doing it.
If you're using EBT, you're doing what you need to do to take care of yourself or your family, just like getting financial aid or medical support.
Over 12% of working Americans and their families rely on food assistance to get through the month. Money stress is exhausting, so we're creating free tools and collecting resources to help.
What is EBT?
EBT is short for "electronic benefits transfer." It's essentially a debit card for groceries and essentials. It's the primary payment method used to give people fast access to SNAP food assistance.
Some folks also use it for benefits like TANF (or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families), depending on their situation. It's a way to deliver funds on a regular basis to help families with essentials.
10 Surprising Things You Can Buy With EBT
Many people miss out on helpful benefits because it's not always clear what's covered. Here are some lesser-known items you can buy with your EBT card so you can finally snip some stress and confusion out of your life.
What stores accept SNAP EBT near you? Which items should you start looking for? Let's take a look below.
1. Drinks that aren't just water (yes, really)
If you've ever skipped grabbing that 6-pack of fizzy water or seltzer water, wondering if you can buy a drink that tastes good, EBT isn't only for basics like milk and water. Your benefits cover all kinds of tasty non-alcoholic beverages, including:
- Coffee
- Cocoa
- Tea
- Plant-based milk
- Sports drinks
- Fruit juice
2. Shakes and powders (for when there's no time for chewing)
Shakes and powders aren't as straightforward as other items but they may still be covered by EBT. Look for popular fitness and wellness brands that accept EBT payments, such as:
- SlimFast
- Premier Protein
- Pure Protein
Here's a helpful trick: if it says "Nutrition Facts" (not "Supplement Facts"), it's usually covered. Since EBT partners with SNAP for food assistance, it favors anything that focuses on nutrition first.
3. Frozen pizza (because some nights are just like that)
You don't always have the energy to cook and pizza tends to take the edge off a hard week, but it's often overlooked since it's usually associated with pizza delivery. Frozen pizzas in grocery stores, however, are covered by EBT benefits.
There is an exception to this rule, though! If you want an extra-fresh pizza prepared for you, Papa Murphy's accepts EBT. You just have to pay in-store.
4. Plant seeds and live plants
Have you ever thought of growing a little food at home? Gardening is not only relaxing, it's a smart way to save a little money on your grocery bill once in a while.
One of the surprising things you can buy with EBT are plant seeds and live plants, so consider getting beginner-friendly options like:
- Zucchini
- Squash
- Cucumbers
- Blackberries
- Tomatoes
- Onions
- Strawberries
5. Herbs and spices
It's incredible how much flavor you can give a simple plate of pasta, beans, or lentils with some spices on hand. EBT covers all kinds of herbs and spices, including mainstays like:
- Curry powder
- Turmeric
- Black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Paprika
- Thyme
- Dried parsley
6. Seafood
Some folks are surprised that seafood items are covered (maybe because they tend to be considered delicacies?) but these are extremely nutritious and are a great use of SNAP benefits:
- Shrimp
- Fish
- Shellfish
- Lobsters
- Crab
7. Baby food
One of the many ways EBT takes stress off your shoulders is by covering the whole family. Many retailers offer baby food covered under SNAP benefits, such as formula, purees, and meal cups.
Your EBT card will also cover you for similar foods like cereals, juices, and snacks.
8. Cakes
Celebrations are part of life's joys, especially for children. Many retailers accept EBT for cakes as long as there aren't too many non-edible decorations on top.
You can also buy other items from the bakery, such as pies, cookies, and pastries.
9. Fast food
When money is tight, everything takes more energy. The convenience of fast food restaurants gives you the ability to take a breath. Multiple chains accept EBT at select locations, such as:
- Wendy's
- McDonald's
- Subway
- Taco Bell
- Burger King
It's important to note that only certain fast food restaurants accept EBT, which may also be state-specific. This uncertainty is one of the many reasons we set up our network so you can easily search which locations will take your card!
10. Pumpkins
One of the last surprising things you can buy with EBT is one of those huge pumpkins often sitting outside of grocery stores during fall. If you want to celebrate Halloween with a classic carved pumpkin or put together a homemade pumpkin pie, you're good to go.
EBT covers raw, whole pumpkins since they're primarily used as a food item.
If figuring all this out feels overwhelming, that's exactly why we built Enrich. It helps you quickly check your balance and track your spending.
You can find places near you that accept EBT here.
Learn more about our mission and how we help you manage every income type and everyday spend.
And check out additional helpful resources that can help you stretch every dollar.