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 tampons qualify as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Tampons with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy tampons with Food Stamps or EBT.
SNAP benefits are designed to cover food items and beverages that are essential for nutrition. Non-food items, including personal hygiene products like tampons, are not eligible for purchase under the program. This restriction ensures that the funds are used specifically for nutritional needs.
How to Check If Tampons Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if tampons 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 your 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 You Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?
While tampons 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 tampons that cannot be purchased with these benefits, including:
Alcoholic Beverages: Beer, wine, and liquor are not eligible for purchase.
Household Supplies: Items like cleaning products, paper goods, and pet food are excluded.
Vitamins and Supplements: Products labeled with "Supplement Facts" are not covered.
Hot Prepared Foods: Meals that are hot at the point of sale, such as those from deli counters.
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 for that item. 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 or remove the item from your purchase to proceed. This ensures SNAP funds are used only for eligible 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 without any hassle.
Additionally, Benny offers cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. This can help you stretch your benefits further. Learn more about Benny and start managing your SNAP benefits more effectively today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are tampons ever eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
No, tampons are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. SNAP is designed to cover food items and beverages essential for nutrition, excluding personal hygiene products like tampons.
2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy tampons with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you try to buy tampons. The transaction for the ineligible item will simply be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment.
3. Can I purchase a basket containing tampons with SNAP benefits?
No, if your shopping basket contains tampons, the cost of the tampons will not be covered by SNAP benefits. You will need to pay for the tampons separately using another form of payment.
4. How can I ensure I am not trying to buy ineligible items like tampons with my EBT card?
To avoid purchasing ineligible items, look for “EBT/SNAP eligible” shelf tags or icons on retailer websites. You can also ask the cashier or check the USDA rules online before making a purchase.
