Apr 24, 2025
Understanding what can and cannot be bought with SNAP, previously known as Food Stamps, helps recipients use their benefits effectively. Many wonder if laundry detergent is an eligible purchase.
Can I Buy Laundry Detergent with Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy laundry detergent with Food Stamps or SNAP.
SNAP benefits are designed to help low-income individuals and families purchase food items. Non-food items, such as laundry detergent, are not covered under the program. The focus is on providing nutritional assistance, so household supplies and personal care products are excluded from eligible purchases.
How to Check If Laundry Detergent is SNAP-Eligible
To check if laundry detergent is SNAP-eligible, look for “EBT/SNAP eligible” shelf tags or icons on retailer websites. Most major grocers label qualifying items, making it easier to identify eligible 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 I Buy with SNAP?
While laundry detergent 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 I Not Buy with SNAP?
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 liquor are not eligible.
Vitamins and Supplements: Items with a "Supplement Facts" label are excluded.
Prepared Foods: Hot foods and foods meant for immediate consumption are not covered.
Non-Food Items: Household supplies, pet foods, and hygiene products are ineligible.
What Happens If I Try to Buy an Ineligible Item with EBT?
If you try to buy an ineligible item with SNAP, the transaction will be declined at checkout. The cashier or the self-checkout system will notify you that the item cannot be purchased with your EBT card. You will need to use another form of payment for the ineligible item or remove it from your purchase altogether.
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, helping you stay on top of your benefits.
Additionally, Benny lets you earn cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. Learn more about Benny and start managing your SNAP benefits more effectively today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is laundry detergent not eligible for purchase with SNAP?
SNAP benefits are intended to cover food items only. Non-food items like laundry detergent are excluded to ensure that the assistance focuses on nutritional needs.
2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy laundry detergent with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted. The transaction will simply be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment for the laundry detergent.
3. Are baskets containing laundry detergent eligible for purchase with SNAP?
No, if your shopping basket contains laundry detergent, only the eligible food items can be purchased with SNAP. You will need to pay for the laundry detergent separately using another payment method.
4. How can I ensure I am not trying to buy ineligible items like laundry detergent with SNAP?
Look for “EBT/SNAP eligible” tags on store shelves or check retailer websites. If unsure, ask the cashier or call your state SNAP hotline before making a purchase.
