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 paper towels are an eligible purchase.
Can I Buy Paper Towels with Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy paper towels with Food Stamps or SNAP.
SNAP benefits are intended to help low-income households purchase food and beverages. Non-food items, such as paper towels, are not covered because the program's primary goal is to ensure access to nutritious food. This restriction helps maintain the focus on essential dietary needs.
How to Check If Paper Towels is SNAP-Eligible
To check if paper towels are 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 what can be purchased with SNAP benefits.
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 paper towels 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 I Not Buy with SNAP?
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 liquor are not eligible for purchase.
Household Supplies: Cleaning products, soaps, and other non-food items are excluded.
Vitamins and Supplements: Items labeled with "Supplement Facts" are not covered.
Hot Prepared Foods: Meals that are hot at the point of sale 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 payment system will notify you that the item cannot be purchased with your EBT card. You will need to use another form of payment for that item or remove it from your purchase. This ensures SNAP benefits are used only for eligible food items.
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.
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. Are paper towels ever eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
No, paper towels are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. SNAP is designed to cover food and beverages, not non-food items like paper towels.
2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy paper towels with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you try to buy paper towels. The transaction will simply be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment for the paper towels.
3. Can I purchase a basket containing paper towels with SNAP benefits?
No, if a basket contains paper towels, you cannot use SNAP benefits to purchase it. You would need to remove the paper towels or pay for them separately with another form of payment.
4. Are there any exceptions to the rule that paper towels are not eligible for SNAP?
No, there are no exceptions. Paper towels are consistently classified as non-food items and are therefore ineligible for purchase with SNAP benefits across all states.
