Shopping with SNAP
Apr 24, 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 laundry detergent qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Laundry Detergent with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy laundry detergent with Food Stamps or EBT.
This is because SNAP benefits are intended to cover food items only. Non-food items, such as cleaning supplies, paper products, and toiletries, are not eligible for purchase with EBT. The program's primary goal is to ensure that recipients have access to nutritious food, so items like laundry detergent fall outside the scope of allowable purchases.
How to Check If Laundry Detergent Is SNAP-Eligible
To determine if an item is SNAP-eligible, check its label. If it 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 item 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 laundry detergent 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 EBT.
Household Supplies: Cleaning products, paper goods, and other non-food household items cannot be bought with SNAP benefits.
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 to complete the purchase for that item. This ensures that SNAP benefits are used only for eligible food items.
Manage Your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Benny is a great option to manage your SNAP benefits. Our app allows you to check your EBT balance and transactions in real-time, helping you stay on top of your spending. Plus, you can earn cash back on groceries and other purchases at popular stores such as Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Laundry Detergent Ever Eligible for Purchase with SNAP Benefits?
No, laundry detergent is not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. SNAP is designed to cover food items only, and non-food items like laundry detergent fall outside the scope of allowable purchases.
Do SNAP Eligibility Rules for Laundry Detergent Vary by State?
No, the rules for SNAP eligibility are federally regulated and do not vary by state. Laundry detergent is universally ineligible for purchase with SNAP benefits across all states.
Can Your EBT Benefits Be Halted for Attempting to Buy Laundry Detergent?
No, attempting to buy laundry detergent with your EBT card will not result in your benefits being halted. The transaction will simply be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment for the laundry detergent.
Are Baskets Containing Laundry Detergent Eligible for Purchase with SNAP?
No, if your shopping basket contains laundry detergent, you will need to separate it from your SNAP-eligible items. Only the food items in your basket can be purchased with SNAP benefits, while the laundry detergent must be paid for with another form of payment.
