16+ Surprising Things You Can Buy with EBT on Amazon

Many EBT users believe they can only use their card at grocery stores, but Amazon changes that. There are surprising things you can buy with EBT on Amazon.

Amazon accepts EBT for SNAP purchases and lets you shop for far more than bread, milk, or vegetables. Therefore, you can buy pantry staples, snacks, and even some surprising items like seafood, baby formula, or gift baskets. All eligible products carry the “SNAP EBT eligible” label, so you can easily spot them when shopping. 

In this guide, we’ll explain those surprising things, what you cannot buy, and simple tips to make the most of your benefits.

1. Does Amazon Shopping Accept EBT?

Yes, Amazon accepts EBT for SNAP-eligible items across the United States, except in Alaska, Hawaii, and U.S. territories. This means you can order groceries and other approved products without leaving your home.

You do not need an Amazon Prime membership to use your EBT card. However, Amazon offers a discounted Prime membership for EBT users if you want faster shipping or access to Prime-only deals.

When you shop, you need to follow the rules below:

• Look for products marked “SNAP EBT eligible.”
• Meet the minimum order amount to qualify for free delivery.
• Use your EBT card at checkout just like a debit card.

In short, Amazon makes it simple for SNAP participants to shop online with their EBT card, so you have more flexibility in how you use your benefits.

>>> Read more: Free Phone Service With Food Stamps Or SNAP: What To Expect 2025 

2. What Can You Buy with EBT on Amazon?

When you shop with your EBT card on Amazon, you are not limited to basic groceries. You can buy a wide range of SNAP-approved products such as fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, and pantry staples. 

Every eligible item is marked with the “SNAP EBT eligible” label on Amazon, so you know what can be added to your cart.

2.1. Top 16+ Surprising Things You Can Buy with EBT on Amazon

Amazon gives you more choices than many local stores. Besides standard groceries, you can also use your benefits for the following categories:

Pantry Staples & Cooking Essentials

• Organic coffee beans and specialty teas
• Spices and herbs in bulk
• Cooking oils
• Canned meats and seafood
• Nut butters and spreads
• Shelf-stable meal kits

Snacks & Special Diet Foods

• Baby formula and toddler snacks
• Gluten-free and allergy-friendly products
• Protein bars
• Meal replacement shakes
• Healthy snack packs

Beverages

• Bottled water
• Energy drinks (with “Nutrition Facts” label)
• Cocoa mixes

Plants & Gifts

• Seeds and plants that produce food
• Food-based gift baskets (if most of the value is from food items)

Baby & Infant Nutrition

• Infant formula
• Baby food in jars, pouches, or bulk packs

2.2. Surprising Non-Food EBT Eligible Items You Can Buy

Amazon also lists some items you may not think of as EBT-eligible:

• Energy bars and protein shakes (with “Nutrition Facts” label)
• Meal replacement powders
• Shelf-stable smoothies
• Frozen pre-cut fruits and vegetables for smoothies

With these options, your EBT benefits on Amazon can stretch beyond the basics and help you stock up on convenient, long-lasting items.

3. What Can You Not Buy with EBT

EBT cards are meant to support nutritious meals at home. Because of that, some products are not allowed under SNAP rules. When you shop on Amazon or in stores, your card will be declined if you try to buy:

• Alcohol and tobacco: Beer, wine, liquor, and cigarettes are not covered.
• Vitamins and supplements: Any item with a “Supplement Facts” label is excluded, even if sold in grocery stores.
• Pet food: EBT benefits can only be used for human food, not for dogs, cats, or other pets.
• Hot prepared meals: Items sold ready-to-eat, such as hot deli meals, cannot be purchased with SNAP unless your state takes part in the Restaurant Meals Program.

These limits exist because SNAP benefits are designed to help families buy groceries they can prepare at home, not products for non-food use or immediate consumption.

4. Step-by-Step: How to Use EBT on Amazon

Shopping with your EBT card on Amazon is simple. Follow these steps to start using your SNAP benefits online:

Step 1: Add EBT Card to Your Account

• Go to Your Payments in your Amazon account.
• Select “Add SNAP EBT card” and enter your card details.

Step 2: Shop EBT Eligible Items

• Look for products marked with the “SNAP EBT eligible” label.
• You can also use filters or search “EBT” + product name to see eligible options.

Step 3: Proceed to Checkout

• Add your groceries or eligible items to your cart.
• At checkout, choose EBT as your payment method.

Step 4: Pay Balance if Needed

If your order includes non-eligible items or delivery fees, use a debit or credit card to pay the remaining balance.

This process lets you combine SNAP benefits with other payment methods, making it easier to complete your grocery shopping on Amazon.

5. Tips to Maximize Your EBT Benefits on Amazon

Your EBT card can go further if you shop smart. Amazon offers tools and deals that help you save money and stretch your benefits. Here are some simple tips:

• Use Amazon Coupons and “Subscribe & Save”: Many pantry staples and household foods come with digital coupons. Pair them with the “Subscribe & Save” option for repeat deliveries at discounted prices.
• Buy in Bulk: Shelf-stable items like rice, canned beans, or pasta are cheaper when bought in larger quantities. Buying in bulk also helps you reach the free delivery threshold faster, reducing extra costs.
• Watch Seasonal Sales: Amazon runs deals during back-to-school season, holidays, and Prime events. Stock up on pantry goods, snacks, or baby food when prices drop.

These strategies let you maximize your monthly SNAP benefits while shopping online.

6. What Free Telecommunication Services Can You Receive Through EBT?

If you meet EBT/SNAP requirements, you automatically qualify for Lifeline programs. The Lifeline program helps low-income/EBT users who receive monthly subsidies for phone or monthly telecommunication services. Lifeline-approved providers like TAG Mobile offer free telecommunication services, such as a free smartphone plan with unlimited text, talk, and data.

6.1. Which is The Most Reputable Lifeline Provider?

We recommend TAG Mobile as a trusted Lifeline provider that supports low-income households to stay connected with their relationships, including SNAP participants with EBT cards. By choosing TAG Mobile, you can access:

• Free unlimited talk and text every month
• Free international calling to over 200 countries worldwide
• Up to 15 GB of monthly data
• Option to activate your own device with a free TAG Mobile SIM card
• Tribal plans with enhanced benefits

You can check the full list of benefits at TAG Mobile Plans.

6.2. Why EBT Users Should Choose TAG Mobile?

Besides free/discounted phone plans with free services, many EBT users prefer TAG Mobile because of its simple process and reliable service:

• Fast approval: Most applications are processed in under 30 minutes
• Free shipping: Devices are delivered in 7–10 business days with tracking
• Friendly support: Help is available by phone or online before and after you apply
• Nationwide coverage: Service works well in both urban and tribal areas
• Wide device options: From free entry-level phones to upgraded iPhones and tablets

Check your eligibility now and start enjoying free talk, text, and data with a TAG Mobile phone plan.

DISCLAIMER: The government does not cover device costs, only basic service through Lifeline. Any free or discounted devices, upgrades, or top-ups are limited-time TAGMobile offers and may vary by state, eligibility, and availability. Terms and conditions apply.

>>> Read more: Where Can I Get A Free Tablet With Food Stamps? Latest Tutorial 

FAQs

1. What is the number one item bought with food stamps on Amazon?

Most EBT shoppers buy pantry staples. Common items include rice, pasta, canned beans, and other shelf-stable groceries that stretch monthly benefits.

2. Can I use EBT for Amazon Prime?

You cannot pay directly for Prime with EBT. However, Amazon gives discounted Prime membership to EBT users, which can help you access free shipping and other benefits.

3. Are there delivery fees for EBT orders?

Amazon Fresh orders have no delivery fee if they reach the free-delivery threshold. Regular Amazon grocery orders follow the same rule. If your order does not meet the minimum, you may need to pay a small delivery fee.

4. How to Find SNAP EBT Eligible Items on Amazon?

You can easily check if a product qualifies:

• Use filters and select the “EBT eligible” option.
• Search using “EBT” plus the product name.
• Look for the “SNAP EBT eligible” label on the product page before checkout.

Final Words

Using your EBT card on Amazon gives you more than basic groceries. From baby formula to pantry kits, there are surprising things you can buy with EBT on Amazon that make life easier. Just remember that alcohol, hot food, and supplements remain off-limits. With smart shopping, you can stretch your benefits further and shop from home with confidence. 

If you qualify for SNAP, you may also qualify for a free smartphone or tablet through the Lifeline program. Check your eligibility today and start enjoying both benefits.