Coffee. Just hearing the word conjures up the image of a freshly brewed cup, and there’s nothing quite like it. Much like the Brits cherish their tea, Americans deeply love their coffee!
Coffee has become an integral part of daily life in America, whether enjoyed hot, cold or blended into a delightful creation.
The ubiquity of Starbucks throughout the United States solidifies its position as a dominant force within the national coffee industry.
The brand’s extensive reach encompasses bookstores, rest areas, and urban centers, ensuring convenient access for a vast customer base.
Does Starbucks participate in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), allowing customers to utilize EBT cards for purchases?
The answer varies: yes and no. It depends on whether the Starbucks in question is a stand-alone store or a licensed location.
This article will explore this subject further by examining the distinction between these two operational types and identifying the locations that accept SNAP, EBT, or Food Stamps.
Insights into Starbucks
Headquartered in Seattle, Washington, Starbucks holds the title of the largest coffee shop chain in the world.
There are over 16,000 stores in the U.S. alone, with around 9,000 being company-operated and more than 6,000 operating under licenses.
Starbucks’ menu offers much more than just a standard cup of coffee. They serve a variety of hot and cold beverages, breakfast items, bakery treats, and an array of Frappuccino-style drinks.
Can You Use SNAP EBT at Starbucks?
The answer to this question is somewhat nuanced. If you’re visiting a Starbucks inside a grocery store like Target or Publix, you can use your EBT benefit card.
Since these Starbucks locations are within grocery stores, they operate similarly to other grocery items you purchase.
However, standalone or corporate-operated Starbucks stores do not accept SNAP or EBT benefits. Starbucks is considered a luxury retailer rather than an essential one, which makes it ineligible to participate as a SNAP retailer.
Furthermore, your EBT benefit card cannot be used to purchase hot and prepared foods at licensed or standalone Starbucks locations.
Distinguishing Between Stand-Alone and Licensed Starbucks Locations
Starbucks accepts SNAP/EBT benefits at certain locations, but understanding the difference between licensed and stand-alone stores is key.
Company-Operated or Stand-Alone Starbucks
A company-operated or stand-alone Starbucks is typically found in a shopping mall or plaza. These stores tend to be larger, have a higher gross margin, and a lower operating margin than licensed stores.
Despite the differences in operation, employees at both stand-alone and licensed Starbucks locations receive the same training and must adhere to the same policies and procedures.
However, since Starbucks is not classified as a retailer of essential foods, it is not an approved SNAP EBT retailer.
According to the company’s website:
“Starbucks, as policy, does not accept food stamp cards for payment at its company-operated stores. However, some of our licensees, particularly those within grocery stores, may accept these for payment.”
Licensed Starbucks
Licensed Starbucks, or noncorporate operations, are smaller outlets or kiosks located within grocery stores or other establishments.
Retailers such as Publix, Safeway, Target, Barnes & Noble, and various local grocery stores often feature a Starbucks as part of a business arrangement.
While Starbucks’s corporate policy prohibits the acceptance of SNAP/EBT benefits at its stores, some exceptions may exist.
Specifically, Starbucks locations within grocery stores might allow SNAP/EBT purchases if the host grocery store accepts them as part of its payment policy.
It’s important to note that Starbucks is not part of the Restaurant Meals Program, meaning you cannot use your EBT card to purchase hot, prepared food and drinks at any Starbucks location, including licensed stores.
Yet, at licensed Starbucks outlets, you can utilize your SNAP EBT card to purchase cold drinks,
sweets, sandwiches, snacks, soft drinks, and energy drinks.
Using Your SNAP/EBT Benefits at Starbucks
Generally, you can use your SNAP/EBT benefits to purchase items such as coffee, instant coffee, coffee beans, ground coffee, creamer, snacks, and various types of bread.
To pay for your eligible items, swipe your SNAP EBT card at the checkout as you normally would. Select SNAP EBT as the payment method, and then enter your PIN when prompted.
What Is the Restaurant Meals Program?
The Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) is a state-administered initiative permitting certain SNAP recipients to purchase prepared meals at participating restaurants using EBT benefits cards.
Eligibility for the program includes being 60 years or older, disabled and receiving disability benefits, or being the spouse of an SNAP recipient eligible for RMP.
For a restaurant to join the program, it must be located in a state that offers RMP, receive approval from the state, and be authorized by the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) to accept SNAP EBT benefits.
What Can I Purchase Using SNAP EBT Benefits?
SNAP EBT benefits can be used to buy staple foods such as vegetables, fruits, poultry, meat, fish, bread, cereals, dairy products, snacks, seeds, and non-alcoholic beverages.
However, some items are not eligible for purchase with SNAP EBT benefits.
What Items Are Ineligible for Purchase With SNAP/EBT Benefits?
You cannot use your SNAP/EBT benefits to buy the following items:
- Cigarettes or other tobacco products
- Alcoholic beverages, including wine, beer, and spirits
- Supplements labeled as “Supplement Facts” such as protein powders, vitamins, and medications
- Hot food and drinks intended for immediate consumption in the store
- Live animals, except those recently removed from water like lobster or shellfish
- Non-food items, including personal products, cleaning supplies, and household supplies
How Do I Apply for a SNAP or EBT Card?
Obtaining an EBT card is a straightforward process that begins with determining your eligibility for SNAP or Food Stamps benefits.
Eligibility is based on residency in the United States and meeting income criteria set by the federal poverty guidelines.
Contact your state’s assistance office to apply for SNAP/EBT benefits. They will guide you through the application process, which involves assessing your household size and monthly income.
If approved, you will receive an EBT card in the mail. This card is loaded monthly with the amount of benefits you qualify for.
You can then use your EBT card at participating stores to purchase food and other approved items.
Conclusion
SNAP/EBT benefits can be used at certain licensed Starbucks locations but not at corporate stores.
At these licensed spots, you can use your benefits to buy various items at Starbucks, excluding hot foods and drinks.
Your EBT card offers several advantages, including the occasional indulgence in a delicious Starbucks treat!
