Can You Use SNAP to Buy Soda and Candy in Another State?

SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) is a federal program that helps people buy food using an EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) card.

But if your state bans you from using SNAP to buy items like soda or candy, what happens if you cross into another state?
 

SNAP Benefits Work Across State Lines

You can use your SNAP benefits in all 50 states, as well as in the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

This means your EBT card will work at any store that accepts SNAP, even if you’re traveling or shopping outside your home state.
 

Rules Depend on Where You Shop

Here’s an important detail: the rules of the state where you shop apply, not the rules of your home state.

If you live in a state that bans certain foods (like soda or candy) but shop in a different state where those items are allowed, you can buy them with your SNAP benefits. Your EBT card does not carry your home state’s restrictions into other states.

Example:

Starting April 20, 2026, Florida will ban SNAP users from buying soda, candy, energy drinks, or prepared desserts. But if you drive to Georgia (a state with no such ban), you can use your SNAP benefits to buy those items there, and you won’t get in trouble for doing so.
 

What If an Item Is Banned Where You Shop?

If you try to buy something that is banned by the state where you’re shopping, your purchase will not go through. In that case, you can still buy those items using cash, debit, credit, or assistance like TANF.
 

Always Check Local Rules

Before shopping in another state, it’s a good idea to check that state’s SNAP rules. Some states have or are planning to put bans in place against buying certain “junk foods” with SNAP.
 

Which States Have SNAP Junk Food Bans?

As of January 2026, the following states have or are planning restrictions for SNAP purchases:
 

• Arkansas - Soda, candy, fruit/vegetable drinks with less than 50% real juice, other “unhealthy drinks”
• Colorado - Soft drinks with artificial or natural sweeteners
• Hawaii - Soft drinks with more than 10g sugar per serving
• Missouri - Candy, processed desserts, “unhealthy drinks”
• North Dakota - Candy, soft drinks, energy drinks, some baking ingredients
• Virginia - “Sweetened beverages” like soda, diet soda, pop, soft drinks, energy drinks

More states may add restrictions in the future, so be sure to review the latest rules before shopping.
 

In summary:

You can use your SNAP card in any state, but what you’re allowed to buy depends on the rules where the store is located—not the state where your card was issued. Always check local guidelines before you shop!

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