What SNAP can buy
Can I buy a birthday cake with EBT?
The USDA rule
"Any food for the household, such as: fruits and vegetables; meat, poultry, and fish; dairy products; breads and cereals; other foods such as snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages; and seeds and plants, which produce food for the household to eat."
USDA, What Can SNAP Buy? (page updated June 4, 2025)
Good to know
- Nonfood items, like candles or party supplies, need another way to pay.
- Florida, Missouri and Montana list prepared desserts in their waivers.
States with a rule on a birthday cake
3 states have a USDA waiver that can cover a birthday cake; 2 are in effect now. Courts blocked the waivers of Colorado, Iowa, Tennessee and West Virginia on June 22, 2026.
| State | Status | What the waiver restricts |
|---|---|---|
| Florida | In effect | Restricts purchase of soda, energy drinks, candy, and prepared desserts. |
| Missouri | Starts Feb 15, 2027 | Restricts purchase of candy, prepared desserts, and certain unhealthy beverages. |
| Montana | In effect | Restricts purchase of high-sugar beverages, energy drinks, candy, and prepared desserts. |
More answers
Common questions
Can I buy a birthday cake with EBT?
Yes in most states: a cake is food. Candles, toys and other nonfood parts are not. A few states block prepared desserts.
Who decides at the register?
The store's system follows the SNAP rules for each product. If you think a charge is wrong, ask the store, then your state SNAP agency.
Sources: USDA, What Can SNAP Buy? (page updated June 4, 2025); USDA, SNAP Food Restriction Waivers (page updated October 13, 2026).
Independent guide. Not a government website. Not affiliated with USDA or any state agency. We do not take applications, and we never ask for your case number, card number or PIN. Amounts and rules can change: your state SNAP agency has the final word.