Last Updated on October 6, 2023 by Lori Pace
SNAP is a monthly benefit program that provides benefits to low-income households in the United States. Each state administers SNAP from funding by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service. SNAP benefits have limits in their use and have restrictions on purchases. So, if you wonder whether can you buy wine with ebt, we have the answer.
What You Can Buy Using EBT Cards?
The USDA states that EBT cards linked to SNAP accounts can buy:
- Fruits and Vegetables
- Fish and meat.
- Dairy.
- Cereals and breads
- Snack foods, non-alcoholic drinks.
- The seeds and plants that produce food for the household.
Can You Buy Wine With EBT Cards – The Answer is NO
The USDA clearly states that SNAP benefits do not allow purchases of the following:
- Beer, wine and liquor.
- Supplement Facts labels (vitamins, medicines, and other items)
- Live Animals (exception to: shellfish, fish taken from water)
- Hot foods at the point of sale
- All non-food items
You cannot use the SNAP EBT card for the purchase of beer, wine, or liquor. The National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL), however, noted that the federal government had placed restrictions in 2012 to prohibit the use of EBT cards at liquor stores, gambling venues, or other adult entertainment venues. So, if you attempt to purchase alcohol with your EBT card, the transaction will likely be denied.
Cash Withdrawals
Low Income Relief reported that the EBT card can’t be used to withdraw cash from Temporary Assistance For Needy Families benefits. This is because ATMs are located in liquor stores, casinos and racetracks. They sell alcohol and other prohibited goods and services. The transaction will be rejected if you try to buy alcohol using your EBT card.
For more information about the EBT Cards and which stores take it, here is the list:
