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.
Dish soap is considered a non-food item, and SNAP benefits are strictly designated for purchasing food products. The program aims to assist low-income households in accessing nutritious food, so items like cleaning supplies, toiletries, and other household goods are not covered.
How to Check If a Dish Soap Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if dish soap is SNAP-eligible, look for "EBT/SNAP eligible" shelf tags in stores or icons on retailer websites. Most major grocers label qualifying items, making it easier to identify approved products.
Additionally, compare the product to USDA rules by visiting the official resource. If still unsure, ask the cashier or call your state SNAP hotline before making a purchase.
What Can You Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?
While dish soap isn't eligible, you might be surprised to know that SNAP benefits cover many of these items:
Plants: Vegetable seeds, fruit plants, and starters used to grow food at home.
Farmers’ Markets: Eligible at many markets, often via tokens or electronic payments.
Energy Drinks: Eligible if labeled with a "Nutrition Facts" panel (not "Supplement Facts").
Bakery Items and Birthday Cakes: Decorated birthday cakes and baked goods.
Seafood and Fresh Meat: Fresh, frozen, or canned seafood and meats.
What 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 liquor are not eligible for purchase.
Vitamins and Supplements: Items labeled with "Supplement Facts" are excluded.
Prepared Foods: Hot foods and foods meant for immediate consumption are not covered.
Household Supplies: Items like paper products and cleaning supplies are ineligible.
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 isn't covered by SNAP benefits. You'll need to pay for it using another form of payment, such as cash or a credit card, to complete your purchase. This ensures SNAP funds are used only for approved items.
Manage Your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Managing your SNAP benefits is easier with Benny. Our app allows you to check your EBT balance and transactions instantly, eliminating the need for phone calls or receipts.
Additionally, Benny offers cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. Learn more about how Benny can help you manage your SNAP benefits more effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does the rule on dish soap's SNAP eligibility vary by state?
No, the rule on dish soap's SNAP eligibility does not vary by state. Dish soap is universally considered a non-food item and is not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy dish soap with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you try to buy dish soap. The transaction for the dish soap will simply be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment.
3. Are baskets containing dish soap eligible for purchase with SNAP?
No, baskets containing dish soap are not eligible for purchase with SNAP. You will need to remove the dish soap or pay for it separately using another payment method.
4. Can I use SNAP benefits to buy any cleaning supplies?
No, SNAP benefits cannot be used to buy any cleaning supplies, including dish soap. SNAP is strictly for purchasing food items to ensure nutritional support for low-income households.
