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 paper products qualify as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Paper Products with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy paper products with Food Stamps or EBT.
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is designed to help low-income individuals and families purchase food and beverages. Paper products, such as napkins, paper towels, and toilet paper, are considered non-food items and therefore do not qualify for purchase under SNAP guidelines. The program strictly limits eligible items to those that provide nutritional value.
How to Check If Paper Products Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if paper products are SNAP-eligible, look for "EBT/SNAP eligible" shelf tags in stores or icons on retailer websites. Most major grocers label qualifying items clearly. This visual cue helps you quickly identify eligible products while shopping.
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. This ensures you use your benefits correctly.
What Can You Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?
While paper products aren'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 paper products 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.
Hot Prepared Foods: Foods that are hot at the point of sale are not covered.
Non-Food Items: Household supplies, pet foods, and hygiene products 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 self-checkout system will notify you that the item cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits. 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 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 offers cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, 7-Eleven, and many more. This means more savings on your everyday essentials. Learn more about Benny and start managing your SNAP benefits more effectively today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are there any exceptions where paper products can be bought with SNAP benefits?
No, paper products are universally ineligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. This rule applies across all states without exception.
2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I attempt to buy paper products?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you attempt to buy paper products. The transaction will simply be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment.
3. Can I purchase a basket containing paper products with my SNAP benefits?
No, if a basket contains paper products, those items will not be covered by SNAP benefits. You will need to separate the paper products and pay for them with another form of payment.
4. How can I ensure I am not mistakenly trying to buy paper products with my EBT card?
Look for "EBT/SNAP eligible" shelf tags in stores or icons on retailer websites. If still unsure, ask the cashier or call your state SNAP hotline before making a purchase.
