SNAP and Farmers Markets

Upcoming change to SNAP-eligible beverages

Beginning October 1, 2026, sweetened carbonated beverages will no longer be eligible for purchase using SNAP benefits. This change will not affect your benefit amount or impact any food items you may purchase with SNAP.

Why Shop at a Farmers' Market?

Fresh, local food supports your health and your community. When you shop at a farmers’ market:

Enjoy better taste. Fresh fruits and vegetables are picked at their peak.
Get more nutrition. Produce hasn’t lost value during long transport.
Make food last longer. Fresh food keeps better than store-bought.
Find more variety. Markets offer unique, seasonal choices.
Stretch your dollars. With no middleman, prices are often lower. SNAP participants can double benefits with Virginia Fresh Match (VFM).
Support Virginia farmers. Every purchase strengthens local families and the economy.

Get MORE fruits and vegetables when you spend SNAP/EBT

Virginia Fresh Match (VFM) is a network of farmers markets, mobile markets and community food stores across Virginia. VFM locations offer nutrition incentives that double the value of SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) dollars spent on fruits and vegetables. With VFM, SNAP shoppers can afford more fruits and vegetables, local farmers earn extra income and more dollars stay in the local economy.

Find a VFM location near you at www.virginiafreshmatch.org.

How to Use SNAP at Farmers’ Markets

Using your SNAP benefits at a farmers’ market is simple:

Bring your EBT card to the market office or information table. Market staff are there to help.
Decide how much to spend. Swipe your card and enter your PIN—just like at the grocery store.
Get tokens or vouchers worth double your purchase. For example: spend $10, receive $20 in tokens.
Use your tokens with market vendors to buy eligible foods.
Vendors cannot give change. Try to make whole-dollar purchases.
Save unused tokens for your next visit.

For more information about SNAP.

Resources for Families

Virginia Family Nutrition Program (SNAP-Ed):
- Farmers’ market recipe collection
- Recipe of the month and activity
- Call the Virginia Family Nutrition Information and Referral Line at 888-814-7627 for more SNAP-Ed resources.
Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS): Learn more.
Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services (DARS): WIC Farmers’ Market and Senior Farmers Market Program (S/FMNP).
Virginia Black Farmer Directory: Explore the directory

Resources for Farmers’ Markets and Direct Marketing Farmers

To accept SNAP at your market or farm stand:

Apply for authorization to accept SNAP. Once approved, you will receive your Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) number.
To request a free wireless point-of-sale (POS) device, complete this form or email the required information to ask_vafm@dss.virginia.gov.

Virginia Farmers Market Association:
This statewide network provides resources for both member and non-member markets. Their Market Manager Certification Training covers all aspects of running a farmers’ market, including SNAP. Learn more at the Virginia Farmers Market Association.

Find your local market, use your SNAP benefits and bring home fresh, affordable food for your family while supporting Virginia farmers.