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 baby wipes, previously known as food stamps, qualify as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Baby Wipes with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy baby wipes with Food Stamps or EBT.
Baby wipes are considered a non-food item, and SNAP benefits are strictly limited to purchasing food products. The program aims to assist low-income households in accessing nutritious food, and non-food items like baby wipes do not fall under this category. Therefore, they are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
How to Check If Baby Wipes Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if baby wipes are SNAP-eligible, look for “EBT/SNAP eligible” shelf tags or icons on retailer websites. Most major grocers label qualifying foods, making it easier to identify eligible items.
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 baby wipes 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 baby wipes that cannot be purchased with these benefits, including:
Alcoholic Beverages: Beer, wine, and liquor are not eligible for purchase.
Household Supplies: Items like cleaning products, paper goods, and pet food are excluded.
Vitamins and Supplements: Products labeled with "Supplement Facts" are not covered.
Prepared Foods: Hot foods and foods meant for immediate consumption 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 at checkout. The cashier or the point-of-sale system will notify you that the item cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits. You will need to use another form of payment or remove the item from your purchase to complete the transaction. This ensures SNAP benefits are used only for approved items.
Manage Your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Managing your SNAP benefits can be 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 effectively by visiting Benny.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are baby wipes eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
No, baby wipes are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. They are considered non-food items, and SNAP benefits are strictly for food products.
2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy baby wipes with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you try to buy baby wipes. The transaction will simply be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment.
3. Can I purchase a basket of items that includes baby wipes with SNAP benefits?
No, if your basket contains baby wipes, you will need to pay for those separately. Only the eligible food items in your basket can be purchased with SNAP benefits.
4. Are there any exceptions to the rule that baby wipes are not eligible for SNAP benefits?
No, there are no exceptions. Baby wipes are universally considered non-food items and are not covered by SNAP benefits in any state.
