Can You Buy Hygiene with EBT/Food Stamps? (2025)

Understanding what can and cannot be bought with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps recipients manage their benefits effectively. Many wonder if hygiene products are eligible purchases under SNAP, previously known as food stamps.

Can You Buy Hygiene with EBT/ Food Stamps?

No, you cannot buy hygiene products with Food Stamps or EBT.

The SNAP program is designed to assist with purchasing food and beverages for home consumption. Hygiene products, such as soap, toothpaste, and deodorant, are considered non-food items and therefore do not qualify for purchase under SNAP benefits. This restriction ensures that the program's funds are used exclusively for nutritional needs.

How to Check If Hygiene Is SNAP-Eligible

To check if hygiene products 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.

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 hygiene 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 hygiene that cannot be purchased with these benefits, including:

• Alcoholic Beverages: Beer, wine, and liquor are not eligible for purchase.

• Vitamins and Supplements: Items with a "Supplement Facts" label are excluded.

• Prepared Foods: Hot foods and foods meant for immediate consumption are not covered.

• Pet Foods: Any food intended for pets is 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.

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, helping you stay on top of your benefits without hassle.

Additionally, Benny lets you earn cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. This can make your benefits go further, providing more value for your everyday shopping.

Learn more about how Benny can help you manage your SNAP benefits effectively by visiting Benny today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about buying hygiene products with food stamps:

1. 1. Can hygiene products be purchased with SNAP benefits?

2. No, hygiene products cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits. These items are considered non-food products and are not covered under the program.

3. 2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy hygiene products?

4. No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you attempt to buy hygiene products. However, the transaction for those items will be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment.

5. 3. Are baskets containing hygiene products eligible for purchase with SNAP?

6. No, baskets containing hygiene products are not eligible for purchase with SNAP. Only the food items in the basket can be bought with SNAP benefits, and the hygiene products must be paid for separately.

7. 4. Can I use SNAP benefits to buy hygiene products if my state has different rules?

8. No, the eligibility rules for SNAP benefits are federally mandated and do not vary by state. Hygiene products are universally ineligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.