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Can you buy alcohol with EBT?

Short answer: No. No. SNAP benefits cannot be used to buy beer, wine or liquor.

USDA lists beer, wine and liquor as items households cannot buy with SNAP.

That includes alcohol sold in a grocery store. If a food has alcohol in it, ask the store or your state SNAP agency how it is classified.

Last verified November 4, 2026, next check December 4, 2026. How we verify facts

Sources

• USDA Food and Nutrition Administration: What Can SNAP Buy?, page updated June 4, 2025

Related questions

• Can you buy cigarettes or tobacco with EBT?
• Can you buy CBD or cannabis products with EBT?

Rules can differ by state. For decisions about your benefits, contact your state SNAP agency.