Can you buy alcohol with EBT?

Short answer: No. No. SNAP benefits cannot be used to buy beer, wine or liquor.

USDA lists beer, wine and liquor as items households cannot buy with SNAP.

That includes alcohol sold in a grocery store. If a food has alcohol in it, ask the store or your state SNAP agency how it is classified.

Verified November 4, 2026Next check December 4, 2026How we verify facts

Sources

• USDA Food and Nutrition Administration: What Can SNAP Buy?, page updated June 4, 2025

Related questions

• Can you buy cigarettes or tobacco with EBT?
• Can you buy CBD or cannabis products with EBT?

Rules can differ by state. For decisions about your benefits, contact your state SNAP agency.