Shabby Chic Boho Photo by Anna Shvets.
Everywhere I go online these days, from TikTok to YouTube, people are losing their shi… marbles over the fact that there are changes in EBT. I’ve seen so many different topics on it that I wanted to help settle any misunderstanding about it for my readers. So I did some research on the topic and to the best of my knowledge this is the truest and most accurate breakdown of the latest changes I could find.
We all know how much our grocery lists can change, especially with prices going up on everything from milk to bread. But lately, there’s a new kind of change happening at the checkout counter, one that’s a bit more personal and could catch you by surprise. If you use an EBT card for your shopping, listen up.
Understanding the New State-by-State Rules
For a long time, the rules about what you could buy with EBT were pretty standard everywhere. You couldn’t get hot foods, alcohol, or stuff like pet food. Simple enough. But that’s starting to shift in a big way. The latest news isn’t about the old rules, it’s about brand new ones, and they’re different depending on where you live.
Right now, a number of states have gotten federal permission to make their own purchase restrictions. This is a game changer. Suddenly, things that were perfectly fine to buy with your benefits a few months ago might no longer be allowed. The most common changes so far are the bans on sweets. We’re talking about things like soda, candy, and other sweetened drinks.
Imagine going to the store, grabbing a six pack of your favorite soda for a family dinner, and finding out at the register that your card won’t work for it. It’s frustrating, and it’s happening.
The Latest on State-Level EBT Food Restrictions
Photo by Omar Mahmood.
This isn’t a national, one-size-fits-all ban. It’s a state by state roll out. Some states are only banning sugary sodas. Others are going a bit further, adding candy and energy drinks to the no-buy list. A few are even restricting things like prepared desserts, like cakes and pies. It’s confusing, and it’s why staying informed is so important.
So, how does this affect you? The number one thing to do is find out if your state has adopted these new rules. A quick search on your state’s official SNAP or EBT website is the best place to start. They should have the latest information on what’s changed.
The whole point of these new rules, according to officials, is to promote healthier eating. But for people on a budget, it can feel like one more thing to worry about. My advice? Be prepared. Check what’s allowed and what’s not before you head to the store. A little bit of knowledge can save you from a lot of hassle at the checkout line.
A Quick Guide to the New EBT Purchase Restrictions by State
This is a living document, and these rules are rolling out. Always check your state’s official EBT website for the most current information.
As of early 2025, these states have implemented or will soon implement new restrictions.
Arkansas: No longer allowed to buy soda, candy, and fruit or vegetable drinks with less than 50% natural juice.
Colorado: Soda and soft drinks are now prohibited.
Florida: Prohibited items now include soda, energy drinks, candy, and prepared desserts.
Idaho: You can no longer buy soda or candy.
Indiana: Soft drinks and candy have been added to the list of prohibited items.
Iowa: A unique change here; most items that are taxable under Iowa state law are no longer eligible for EBT purchase, which includes many sweets and snacks.
Louisiana: Now prohibits the use of EBT benefits for soft drinks, energy drinks, and candy.
Nebraska: Soft drinks and certain energy drinks are now off limits.
Oklahoma: No longer allowed to purchase soft drinks or candy.
Texas: Now prohibits the purchase of sweetened drinks and candy.
Utah: Prohibits the use of EBT for soft drinks and candy.
If you don’t see your state mentioned, it just means I’ve not been able to find any new rules for your state, yet… It doesn’t mean that won’t change any time in the future.
This can feel like one more thing to navigate, but it’s important to remember that staying informed is your best defense. A little bit of knowledge about these specific changes can save you time and frustration at the grocery store, helping you and your family continue to get the food you need without any surprises.
