The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly referred to as the food stamp program, provides financial assistance to low-income individuals and families to help them purchase essential food items. However, the Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, which is used to distribute SNAP benefits, can also be used to purchase certain non-food items. In this article, we'll explore some surprising non-food EBT eligible items you can buy today.
While EBT cards are primarily used for purchasing food, the program has expanded to include other essential items. These non-food items are often overlooked, but they can be incredibly valuable for individuals and families in need. From household essentials to personal care items, we'll take a closer look at the types of non-food items that can be purchased with EBT.
Household Essentials
One of the most significant advantages of EBT cards is that they can be used to purchase household essentials. These items are often overlooked, but they are crucial for maintaining a safe and healthy living environment. Some examples of household essentials that can be purchased with EBT include:
- Paper products, such as toilet paper, paper towels, and tissues
- Cleaning supplies, like soap, detergent, and disinfectants
- Laundry products, including laundry detergent and fabric softener
- Personal care items, such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, and soap
Seeds and Plants
Did you know that EBT cards can be used to purchase seeds and plants? This is a great way for individuals and families to grow their own fruits and vegetables, providing them with fresh produce and a sustainable source of nutrition. According to the USDA, SNAP recipients can use their EBT cards to purchase seeds and plants that produce food, as long as they are intended for human consumption.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Seeds | Seeds for fruits, vegetables, and herbs |
| Plants | Plants that produce food for human consumption |
Personal Care Items
EBT cards can also be used to purchase personal care items, which are essential for maintaining hygiene and overall health. Some examples of personal care items that can be purchased with EBT include:
- Toiletries, such as shampoo, conditioner, and body wash
- Soap, toothbrushes, and toothpaste
- Feminine hygiene products, like sanitary napkins and tampons
- Baby supplies, including diapers and wipes
Pet Food and Supplies
While EBT cards are primarily used for human food, they can also be used to purchase pet food and supplies in some cases. According to the USDA, SNAP recipients can use their EBT cards to purchase pet food, as long as it is intended for the consumption of a service animal or a pet that provides companionship to a person with a disability.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Pet food | Food for service animals or pets that provide companionship |
| Pet supplies | Supplies for service animals or pets, such as leashes and collars |
Key Points
- EBT cards can be used to purchase non-food items, including household essentials and personal care items.
- Seeds and plants that produce food are eligible for purchase with EBT.
- Personal care items, such as toiletries and feminine hygiene products, can be purchased with EBT.
- Pet food and supplies may be eligible for purchase with EBT in certain cases.
- It's essential to check with local retailers to see which non-food items are eligible for purchase with EBT.
Can I use my EBT card to purchase non-food items?
+Yes, in some cases, you can use your EBT card to purchase non-food items, such as household essentials, personal care items, and seeds and plants.
What types of personal care items can I purchase with EBT?
+You can purchase personal care items, such as toiletries, soap, toothbrushes, and toothpaste, as well as feminine hygiene products and baby supplies.
Can I use my EBT card to purchase pet food and supplies?
+In some cases, yes, you can use your EBT card to purchase pet food and supplies, as long as they are intended for the consumption of a service animal or a pet that provides companionship to a person with a disability.