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 paper towels qualify as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Paper Towels with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy paper towels with Food Stamps or EBT.
This is because SNAP benefits are intended to cover food items that are essential for nutrition. Non-food items, such as paper towels, do not fall under this category. Therefore, they are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. This restriction ensures that the funds are used primarily for food and beverages, supporting the program's goal of improving food security and nutrition for low-income households.
How to Check If Paper Towels 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 product 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 paper towels 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.
Hot Foods: Prepared foods meant for immediate consumption, like hot deli items, are not eligible.
Non-Food Items: Household supplies, pet foods, and hygiene products are not covered by 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 funds are used only for eligible food items.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are Paper Towels Ever Eligible for Purchase with SNAP Benefits?
No, paper towels are never eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. SNAP is designed to cover food items essential for nutrition, and paper towels do not fall under this category.
Can You Buy a Basket of Groceries with Paper Towels Using SNAP?
If your basket contains both SNAP-eligible food items and ineligible items like paper towels, you will need to separate the purchases. The SNAP-eligible items can be paid for with your EBT card, while the paper towels must be paid for using another form of payment.
Will Your EBT Benefits Be Halted for Attempting to Buy Paper Towels?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you attempt to buy paper towels. However, the transaction for the paper towels will be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment for those items.
Do SNAP Eligibility Rules for Paper Towels Vary by State?
No, the rules for SNAP eligibility are federally regulated and do not vary by state. Paper towels are universally ineligible for purchase with SNAP benefits across all states.
