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 toothpaste is an eligible purchase.
Can I Buy A Toothpaste with Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy toothpaste with Food Stamps or SNAP.
SNAP benefits are designed to cover food items that are essential for nutrition. Non-food items like toothpaste, soap, and other personal care products are not eligible for purchase under the program. This restriction ensures that the funds are used specifically for food-related needs, supporting the primary goal of improving access to nutritious food for low-income households.
How to Check If A Toothpaste is SNAP-Eligible
To check if toothpaste is 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 eligible products.
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 toothpaste isn'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 toothpaste 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 I Try to Buy an Ineligible Item with EBT?
If you try to buy an ineligible item with SNAP, the cashier or the checkout system will alert you. The item will not be covered by your SNAP benefits, and you will need to pay for it using another form of payment. This ensures that SNAP funds are only used for eligible food items, maintaining the program's focus on nutrition.
Manage Your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Managing your SNAP benefits is 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. Why is toothpaste not eligible for purchase with SNAP?
Toothpaste is considered a non-food item, and SNAP benefits are strictly for purchasing food items that contribute to nutrition. This ensures that the funds are used to improve access to nutritious food for low-income households.
2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy toothpaste with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you attempt to buy toothpaste. However, the item will not be covered by your SNAP benefits, and you will need to pay for it using another form of payment.
3. Are baskets containing toothpaste eligible for purchase with SNAP?
No, if your shopping basket contains toothpaste, the toothpaste itself will not be eligible for purchase with SNAP. You will need to separate the toothpaste and pay for it with a different payment method.
4. Can I use SNAP benefits to buy other personal care items like soap or shampoo?
No, similar to toothpaste, other personal care items like soap and shampoo are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. These items are considered non-food products and must be bought with other forms of payment.
