Introduction
If you are a recipient of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also known as EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer), you may be wondering what items you can purchase with your benefits. One common item that people often ask about is tissue, which includes toilet paper, paper towels, and facial tissues. In this article, we will explore whether or not you can use EBT to purchase tissue.
The Basics of EBT
Before we dive into the specifics of purchasing tissue with EBT, it’s important to understand the basics of the program. EBT is a government-funded program that provides assistance to low-income individuals and families to purchase food. The program works by providing recipients with a debit card that can be used at participating retailers to purchase eligible food items.
What Can You Buy With EBT?
According to the USDA, EBT benefits can only be used to purchase food items that are considered “nutritious.” This includes items such as fruits, vegetables, bread, meat, and dairy products. However, certain non-food items, such as seeds and plants for growing food, can also be purchased with EBT.
Can You Buy Tissue With EBT?
Now, onto the question at hand: can you buy tissue with EBT? The answer is a bit more complicated than a simple yes or no. According to the USDA, non-food items, such as paper products, are not eligible for purchase with EBT benefits. However, some states have opted to allow the purchase of certain non-food items, such as soap and toilet paper, with EBT benefits.
States That Allow the Purchase of Tissue with EBT
As previously mentioned, not all states allow the purchase of non-food items with EBT benefits. However, as of 2023, the following states do allow the purchase of tissue with EBT: – California – Connecticut – Hawaii – Illinois – Massachusetts – Michigan – Pennsylvania – Rhode Island It’s important to note that even in states where the purchase of tissue with EBT is allowed, not all retailers may accept EBT for these items. It’s always best to check with your local retailer before attempting to purchase non-food items with your EBT benefits.
Alternatives to Purchasing Tissue with EBT
If you live in a state where the purchase of tissue with EBT is not allowed or are unable to find a retailer that accepts EBT for these items, there are other options available. Many local food banks and community organizations offer assistance with non-food items, such as tissue and hygiene products.
Conclusion
In summary, the purchase of tissue with EBT benefits is not allowed in all states. However, if you live in a state where the purchase of tissue with EBT is allowed, be sure to check with your local retailer to ensure they accept EBT for these items. If you are unable to purchase tissue with EBT, consider reaching out to local community organizations for assistance.