One common question among EBT recipients is whether or not they can use their benefits to purchase frozen food. The answer is yes, EBT benefits can be used to purchase frozen food. This includes frozen fruits and vegetables, meats, poultry, fish, and other frozen foods that are intended for human consumption. However, it’s important to note that not all frozen foods are eligible for purchase with EBT benefits. For example, ready-to-eat hot foods, such as those found in a deli or fast food restaurant, are not eligible for purchase with EBT benefits.
EBT and Frozen Food
Types of Frozen Food Eligible
You can use your EBT card to buy frozen foods that are not hot and are meant for home consumption. Eligible items include:
- Frozen fruits and vegetables
- Frozen meat, poultry, and fish
- Frozen dairy products
- Frozen bread and cereals
- Frozen meals, such as pizzas, dinners, and breakfast sandwiches
Restrictions on Frozen Food Purchases
EBT cards cannot be used for hot food, non-food items like cleaning supplies, or toiletries. Some stores may have additional restrictions, so it’s best to check with the store before purchasing.
Purchasing with EBT
To find retailers that accept EBT for frozen food purchases, use the USDA’s SNAP Retailer Locator tool. This tool helps you search for nearby retailers and filter results by the types of food they sell.
Remember, EBT benefits cannot be used for hot foods, vitamins, or alcoholic beverages. Some snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages are only eligible if they are intended for home consumption.
Can You Buy Hot Prepared Foods?
One common question regarding EBT is whether or not it can be used to purchase hot prepared foods. According to the USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service, hot foods that are meant to be consumed on-site, such as those from a deli or restaurant, are not eligible for purchase with EBT. However, cold prepared foods, such as sandwiches or salads, are eligible for purchase with EBT as long as they are not meant to be consumed on-site.
To learn more about the range of items you can purchase with an EBT card please refer to our comprehensive guide ‘What You Can Buy with EBT’. This guide offers valuable insights into the types of products eligible for EBT purchases.