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What can you buy with EBT?

SNAP covers food your household will eat. It does not cover hot food, alcohol, tobacco, vitamins, or items that are not food. Pick the item you are wondering about for a sourced answer.

Last verified November 4, 2026. How we verify facts

Common questions

• Can you buy hot food with EBT? No
• Can you buy rotisserie chicken with EBT? Cold: yes. Hot: not yet
• Can you buy cold deli food and sandwiches with EBT? Yes, if cold and not eaten in the store
• Can you buy alcohol with EBT? No
• Can you buy cigarettes or tobacco with EBT? No
• Can you buy CBD or cannabis products with EBT? No
• Can you buy vitamins and supplements with EBT? No
• Can you buy pet food with EBT? No
• Can you buy toilet paper, soap or cleaning supplies with EBT? No
• Can you buy seeds and plants with EBT? Yes, if they grow food
• Can you buy live lobster, crab or other live animals with EBT? Shellfish yes, most live animals no
• Can you buy soda and candy with EBT? Depends on your state

Rules that depend on your state

• Which states restrict soda and candy with SNAP
• Which states let some households use EBT at restaurants

Where the rules come from

The federal rules are set by USDA. Its page on what SNAP can buy says benefits cover any food for the household, such as fruits and vegetables, meat, dairy, breads and cereals, snack foods and non-alcoholic drinks, and seeds and plants that grow food.

If a cashier gets it wrong or you are unsure, ask your state SNAP agency.