Shopping with SNAP
May 4, 2025
Understanding what can and cannot be bought with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps recipients spend their benefits wisely. A common question is whether dish soap qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy a Dish Soap with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy dish soap with Food Stamps or EBT.
This is because SNAP benefits are intended to cover food items that are essential for nutrition. Non-food items, such as cleaning supplies, do not qualify under the program's guidelines. Therefore, dish soap and other similar household items must be purchased with other forms of payment.
How to Check If a Dish Soap Is SNAP-Eligible
To determine if an item is SNAP-eligible, check its label. If it has a "Nutrition Facts" label, it is likely eligible. Conversely, items with a "Supplement Facts" label are not eligible. Additionally, hot, prepared foods meant for immediate consumption are generally not covered by SNAP. For example:
Frozen vegetables: They have a "Nutrition Facts" label and are intended for home consumption. Therefore, they are SNAP-eligible.
Hot pizza: It’s hot, prepared, and meant for immediate consumption. Therefore, it is not SNAP-eligible.
If in doubt, compare the item to USDA rules to determine SNAP eligibility.
Large chain stores often use small shelf labels or icons that say "SNAP Eligible" or "EBT Accepted." Websites of large chains like Walmart, Amazon, or delivery platforms like Instacart often let you filter by SNAP-eligible items. If still unsure, ask the shop assistant before making a purchase.
What Else Can You Not Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?
While SNAP benefits cover a wide range of essential food items, there are products like dish soap that cannot be purchased with these benefits, including:
Alcoholic Beverages: Beer, wine, and other alcoholic drinks are strictly prohibited under SNAP guidelines.
Vitamins and Supplements: Items with a "Supplement Facts" label, such as vitamins and protein powders, are not eligible.
Pet Foods: Any food intended for pets or animals cannot be bought with SNAP benefits.
Household Supplies: Cleaning products, paper goods, and other non-food items are not covered.
What Happens If You Try to Buy an Ineligible Item with an EBT Card?
If you try to buy an ineligible item with your EBT card, the transaction will be declined at checkout. The cashier or the self-checkout system will notify you that the item cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits. You will need to use another form of payment to complete the purchase. This ensures that SNAP benefits are used only for approved food items.
Manage Your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Benny is a great option to manage your SNAP benefits. It allows you to check your EBT balance and transactions in real-time, helping you stay on top of your spending. Plus, you can earn cash back on groceries and other purchases at popular stores such as Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven.
Download Benny to start saving on your EBT benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will My EBT Benefits Be Halted If I Try to Buy Dish Soap?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you attempt to buy dish soap. The transaction will simply be declined at checkout, and you will need to use another form of payment to complete the purchase.
Can I Purchase a Basket of Items That Includes Dish Soap with SNAP?
If your basket contains both SNAP-eligible food items and ineligible items like dish soap, the eligible items will be covered by your EBT card, while you will need to pay for the dish soap separately using another form of payment.
Are There Any States Where Dish Soap Is SNAP-Eligible?
No, dish soap is not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits in any state. SNAP guidelines are federally regulated, and non-food items like dish soap are universally ineligible.
What Should I Do If I Accidentally Try to Buy Dish Soap with My EBT Card?
If you accidentally try to buy dish soap with your EBT card, the transaction will be declined. Simply remove the dish soap from your purchase or use another form of payment to buy it.
