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. Many recipients may wonder whether cleaning supplies qualify as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Cleaning Supplies with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy cleaning supplies with Food Stamps or EBT.
This is because SNAP benefits are strictly designated for purchasing food items that are meant for human consumption. Cleaning supplies, along with other non-food items, do not fall under this category. The program aims to ensure that recipients have access to nutritious food, and therefore, non-food items like cleaning supplies are not covered.
How to Check If Cleaning Supplies Is SNAP-Eligible
To determine if an item is SNAP-eligible, check its label. If the item 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 product 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 cleaning supplies that cannot be purchased with these benefits, including:
Alcoholic Beverages: Beer, wine, and other alcoholic drinks are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
Vitamins and Supplements: Items with a "Supplement Facts" label, such as vitamins and dietary supplements, are not covered.
Pet Foods: Food items intended for pets are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
Non-Food Items: Household supplies, toiletries, and other non-food items are not covered by SNAP.
What Happens If You Try to Buy an Ineligible Item with an EBT Card?
If you try to buy an ineligible item with an EBT card, the transaction will be declined at checkout. The cashier or the self-checkout system will notify you that the item is not covered by SNAP benefits. You will need to use another form of payment to complete the purchase for that item. This ensures that SNAP benefits are used only for eligible food items.
Manage Your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Managing your SNAP benefits is easier with Benny. Our app lets you check your EBT balance and transactions in real-time, helping you stay on top of your spending. Plus, earn cash back on groceries and other purchases at popular stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. Download Benny to start saving on your EBT benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any states where cleaning supplies are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
No, cleaning supplies are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits in any state. The federal guidelines for SNAP strictly prohibit the purchase of non-food items, including cleaning supplies, regardless of the state.
Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy cleaning supplies with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you attempt to buy cleaning supplies. However, the transaction will be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment to complete the purchase for those items.
Can I purchase a basket of items that includes cleaning supplies with SNAP benefits?
No, you cannot use SNAP benefits to purchase a basket of items that includes cleaning supplies. The cleaning supplies will need to be paid for separately with another form of payment, while the eligible food items can be purchased with your EBT card.
Are there any exceptions to the rule that cleaning supplies are not SNAP-eligible?
There are no exceptions to the rule. Cleaning supplies are universally categorized as non-food items and are therefore not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits under any circumstances.
