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 paper products qualify as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Paper Products with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy paper products with Food Stamps or EBT.
This is because SNAP benefits are intended to help low-income households purchase food and beverages. Paper products, such as napkins, paper towels, and toilet paper, are considered non-food items and therefore do not qualify for purchase under the program. The focus of SNAP is to ensure that recipients have access to nutritious food, not household supplies.
How to Check If Paper Products 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, if it has a "Supplement Facts" label, it is not eligible. Additionally, hot, prepared foods meant for immediate consumption are generally not eligible. For example:
Frozen pizza: It has a "Nutrition Facts" label and is intended for home consumption. Therefore, it is SNAP-eligible.
Hot soup from a deli: 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 paper products 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 dietary supplements, are not eligible for purchase.
Hot Foods: Prepared foods meant for immediate consumption, like hot deli items, are not covered by SNAP benefits.
Non-Food Items: Household supplies, pet foods, and hygiene products fall outside the scope of SNAP eligibility.
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 for the ineligible item or remove it from your purchase. This ensures that SNAP benefits are used only for approved items.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any states where paper products are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
No, paper products are universally ineligible for purchase with SNAP benefits across all states. The federal guidelines for SNAP do not allow the purchase of non-food items, including paper products, regardless of the state.
Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy paper products with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you attempt to buy paper products with SNAP. However, the transaction will be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment for the paper products or remove them from your purchase.
Can I purchase a basket of items that includes paper products with SNAP benefits?
No, you cannot purchase a basket of items that includes paper products with SNAP benefits. The paper products will need to be paid for separately using another form of payment, while the eligible food items can be purchased with your SNAP benefits.
What should I do if I'm unsure whether a paper product is eligible for purchase with SNAP?
If you're unsure whether a paper product is eligible for purchase with SNAP, check the label. Paper products typically do not have a "Nutrition Facts" label, indicating they are not eligible. You can also ask a store assistant for clarification or refer to the USDA guidelines for more information.
