Shopping with SNAP
May 4, 2025
Understanding what you can and can’t buy with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps recipients spend their benefits wisely. A common question is whether toiletries qualify as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Toiletries with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy toiletries with Food Stamps or EBT.
This is because SNAP benefits are strictly intended for purchasing food items. Non-food items, including toiletries, do not qualify under the program's guidelines. The aim is to ensure that recipients use their benefits to meet essential nutritional needs.
How to Check If Toiletries 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 SNAP-eligible. 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.
Additionally, 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 toiletries 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.
Household Supplies: Cleaning products, paper goods, and other household 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 your EBT card, the transaction will be declined for that item. 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 specific item.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any states where toiletries are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
No, toiletries 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 toiletries, regardless of the state.
Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy toiletries with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you attempt to buy toiletries. However, the transaction for the ineligible item will be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment to complete the purchase.
Can I purchase a basket of items that includes toiletries with my EBT card?
If your basket contains both eligible and ineligible items, the EBT card will only cover the eligible items. You will need to pay for the toiletries and any other non-eligible items separately using another form of payment.
What should I do if I'm unsure whether a toiletry item is SNAP-eligible?
If you're unsure about the eligibility of a toiletry item, check the label. Items with a "Nutrition Facts" label are generally eligible, while those with a "Supplement Facts" label are not. You can also ask a store assistant or refer to the USDA guidelines for more information.
