You can use your card to buy a wide variety of essential food items intended for home preparation and consumption. A quick "rule of thumb" is that if an item has a "Nutrition Facts" label, it is likely eligible; if it has a "Supplement Facts" label, it is generally not. What You Can Buy
: Non-alcoholic drinks such as bottled water, juice, soda, coffee (beans/grounds), and tea.
: Most live animals are excluded, except for shellfish or fish already removed from water. Recent Changes (Effective 2026) what can i buy with ebt
: Seeds and plants that produce food for your household to eat (e.g., tomato seeds, herb plants). Infant Care : Baby food and infant formula.
: Fruits and vegetables (fresh, frozen, or canned), meats, poultry, fish, dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt, butter), breads, cereals, and grains. You can use your card to buy a
: Pre-made sandwiches or salads from a deli section, as long as they are sold cold and intended for home consumption. What You Cannot Buy
: Flour, sugar, spices, condiments (ketchup, mustard), cooking oils, and even cake mixes or frosting. : Most live animals are excluded, except for
: Pet food, cleaning supplies, paper products (toilet paper, towels), diapers, and hygiene items (shampoo, soap). Hot & Ready Foods : Any food sold hot at the point of purchase, such as hot rotisserie chicken from a bar.