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 toothpaste qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Toothpaste with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy toothpaste with Food Stamps or EBT.
This is because SNAP benefits are intended to cover food items that are essential for nutrition. Non-food items, including toiletries like toothpaste, are not eligible for purchase under the program. The focus of SNAP is to ensure that recipients have access to nutritious food, and therefore, items that do not contribute to dietary needs are excluded from the list of approved purchases.
How to Check If Toothpaste 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 item 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 toothpaste that cannot be purchased with these benefits, including:
Alcoholic Beverages: Beer, wine, liquor, 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.
Pet Foods: Food items intended for pets are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
Household Supplies: Cleaning products, paper goods, and other household items are not covered by SNAP.
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 benefits are used only for approved food items.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Will My EBT Benefits Be Halted If I Try to Buy Toothpaste?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you attempt to buy toothpaste. However, the transaction for the toothpaste will be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment to complete the purchase.
Can I Purchase a Basket of Items with Toothpaste Using SNAP?
If your basket contains both SNAP-eligible items and ineligible items like toothpaste, the eligible items will be covered by your EBT card. You will need to pay for the toothpaste and any other ineligible items separately using another form of payment.
Are There Any States Where Toothpaste Is SNAP-Eligible?
No, toothpaste is not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits in any state. SNAP guidelines are federally regulated, and non-food items like toothpaste are universally excluded from the list of approved purchases.
What Should I Do If I Accidentally Try to Buy Toothpaste with My EBT Card?
If you accidentally try to buy toothpaste with your EBT card, the transaction will simply be declined. You can then choose to remove the toothpaste from your purchase or pay for it using another form of payment.
