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 cereal qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Cereal with EBT/ Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy cereal with Food Stamps or SNAP.
Cereal is considered a staple food item, which makes it eligible for purchase under SNAP guidelines. The program allows for the purchase of most food items intended for home consumption, and cereal falls into this category. This includes a wide variety of cereals, from hot oatmeal to cold breakfast cereals, ensuring recipients have access to nutritious options.
How to Check If Cereal Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if cereal is SNAP-eligible, look for “EBT/SNAP eligible” shelf tags or icons on retailer websites. Most major grocers label qualifying foods, making it easier to identify eligible items while shopping.
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?
Besides cereal, 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 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.
Hot Prepared Foods: Foods that are hot at the point of sale, such as deli meals, are not covered.
Vitamins and Supplements: Products labeled with "Supplement Facts" are ineligible.
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 is not covered by SNAP benefits. You will need to pay for the ineligible item with another form of payment or remove it from your purchase.
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, eliminating the need for phone calls or receipts.
Additionally, Benny offers cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. Learn more about how Benny can help you manage your benefits more effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are all types of cereal eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
Yes, most types of cereal are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits, including both hot cereals like oatmeal and cold breakfast cereals. As long as the cereal is intended for home consumption, it qualifies under SNAP guidelines.
2. Can I buy organic or specialty cereals with my EBT card?
Yes, you can buy organic or specialty cereals with your EBT card. SNAP benefits cover a wide range of cereal options, including those that are organic or have special dietary formulations.
3. Are there any restrictions on the quantity of cereal I can buy with SNAP benefits?
No, there are no specific restrictions on the quantity of cereal you can buy with SNAP benefits. You can purchase as much cereal as your benefits allow, provided it is for home consumption.
4. Do SNAP eligibility rules for cereal vary by state?
No, SNAP eligibility rules for cereal do not vary by state. Cereal is considered a staple food item and is universally eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits across all states.
