Fast Food Restaurants That Accept EBT and SNAP Benefits

Fast food has traditionally been viewed as an affordable option, but with rising food prices and inflation, the cost benefits need to be more apparent. Enabling food stamps or EBT cards at fast food outlets could help alleviate daily financial pressures for those eligible. Here is an in-depth analysis and list of fast food restaurants that accept EBT and SNAP benefits.

Many fast food chains accept EBT cards under specific programs like the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP), which caters to individuals such as the elderly, disabled, and homeless in certain states. Notable fast-food chains participating in this program include McDonald’s, Burger King, and KFC. These establishments offer a variety of menu items, from classic burgers and fries to more substantial meal options. It’s important to check if local branches of these chains participate in the RMP and accept EBT, as this can vary by location and state.

Before planning a visit to use your EBT card at a fast food restaurant, it’s a good idea to confirm directly with the restaurant or through their website to ensure they accept EBT and to understand which items qualify for purchase under the benefits.

What Is EBT and SNAP?

EBT, or Electronic Benefits Transfer, is a system used to deliver Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits to eligible individuals. This program, administered by state welfare departments, aims to enhance food security among low-income families by providing them with electronic funds to purchase nutritious food items from authorized retailers. Recipients are issued an EBT card, which operates similarly to a debit card, allowing them to buy eligible food products.

Understanding the regulations and guidelines for using the EBT card is crucial for compliance and maximizing the benefits provided. For instance, the benefits are intended primarily for the purchase of food intended for preparation and consumption at home. Items like tobacco, alcohol, and non-food items cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits. Additionally, hot or prepared foods are generally excluded, except under specific circumstances or in particular areas that may allow such purchases under certain conditions.

The program is continually updated with eligibility criteria and benefit level adjustments to address economic conditions and ensure that assistance reaches those most in need. For example, the USDA revises the Thrifty Food Plan annually, which helps determine the benefit amounts by calculating a cost-effective diet for families.

What Is the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP)?

The Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) is a facet of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) designed specifically to aid individuals who face meal preparation challenges due to age, disability, or homelessness. This program allows eligible SNAP recipients to use their benefits to purchase prepared meals at authorized restaurants.

The RMP was first implemented in California in 1978 and aimed primarily at assisting older adults and people with disabilities. Over the years, it expanded to include homeless individuals as well. As of 2021, California has mandated a statewide implementation of the RMP, significantly increasing its accessibility and coverage across all counties.

Eligibility for the RMP varies by state, but typically, participants need to be either elderly (60 years and older), disabled, homeless, or the spouses of eligible clients. Restaurants wishing to participate must meet state requirements and be authorized by the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) to accept SNAP benefits.

Where Is the RMP Available?

Currently, five states have RMP available, which are:

• Arizona: Over 500 restaurants accept EBT payments from eligible SNAP recipients in Arizona. As one of the initial states to adopt the RMP, it supports individuals unable to prepare their meals, including the elderly, disabled, and homeless.
• California: Launched in 1978 and expanded across the state by 2021, California’s RMP now includes more than 3,000 restaurants. This program helps older adults, people with disabilities, and homeless individuals by enabling them to buy prepared food in all 58 counties.
• Illinois: Illinois joined the RMP in 2022, starting in select locations within Dewitt County, Franklin County, and certain areas in Cook County. The program, which is still in its pilot phase with plans for expansion, supports elderly, disabled, and homeless SNAP recipients, including their spouses.
• Maryland: Maryland’s RMP is also in its pilot stage. It permits eligible SNAP recipients to buy prepared or hot meals from participating restaurants. The program primarily supports the homeless, seniors, and disabled.
• Rhode Island: In Rhode Island, the RMP is available in selected counties such as Providence and Washington and focuses on helping homeless, elderly, and disabled SNAP recipients.

Fast Food Restaurants That Accept EBT and SNAP Benefits

While some fast-food restaurants accept EBT payments, participation can vary by location. Additionally, the specific food items you can buy with EBT might differ due to local rules and restaurant policies. The following fast-food chains allow EBT payments at participating locations:

1. McDonald’s
2. Subway
3. Taco Bell
4. Burger King
5. Pizza Hut
6. KFC
7. Little Caesars
8. El Pollo Loco
9. Papa John’s
10. Domino’s
11. Panda Express
12. Papa Murphy’s
13. Arby’s
14. Jack in the Box
15. Jamba Juice
16. Carl’s Jr.
17. Popeyes

Here is a brief overview of each location, highlighting key locations where EBT and SNAP benefits are easily redeemed:

• McDonald’s:

A globally recognized fast food chain, McDonald’s serves a diverse menu, including the famous Big Mac, alongside healthier choices like salads and apple slices. EBT is usable at specific locations in states such as Michigan, California, and Arizona under certain conditions.

• Subway:

Known for its made-to-order sandwiches and fresh ingredients, Subway caters to those looking for a nutritious and budget-friendly meal. Options range from the classic turkey sub to a variety of veggie choices. EBT is accepted at certain Subway restaurants participating in the (RMP) across states like California, Rhode Island, and Arizona.

• Taco Bell:

Specializing in Mexican-inspired cuisine, Taco Bell’s menu features tacos, burritos, nachos, and quesadillas. Customers can use their EBT benefits to purchase affordable and flavorful meals at participating outlets in states including Arizona and California.

• Burger King:

As the second largest burger chain in the U.S. behind McDonald’s, Burger King operates over 18,700 outlets worldwide. In Arizona and California, Burger King allows EBT payments at select locations, providing a convenient option for a quick, hot meal.

• Pizza Hut:

With a broad selection of pizzas, wings, and pasta, Pizza Hut ensures a filling and cost-effective meal. EBT is accepted at some locations, making their popular meal deals even more accessible to budget-conscious diners.

• KFC:

Renowned for its signature fried chicken, KFC also participates in the RMP, accepting EBT at selected locations. This option is available in states like Illinois, Arizona, Maryland, California, Rhode Island, Virginia, and Michigan, although availability may vary by city or county.

• Little Caesars:

Founded by Mike and Marian with their life savings, Little Caesars began as a small pizza shop in Garden City, Michigan. Now, it boasts over 4,000 U.S. locations. However, only select stores in San Diego, California, accept EBT cards.

• El Pollo Loco:

Since its inception in 1980 and subsequent acquisition by Denny’s, Inc. in 1983, El Pollo Loco has expanded to nearly 500 locations throughout the U.S. Its California and Arizona branches permit EBT payments. The chain is known for its flame-grilled chicken and participates in the SNAP benefits program in eligible areas.

• Papa John’s:

At Papa John’s, you can enjoy pizza, wings, and more with your EBT card at locations that are part of the RMP. This program is active in states like Arizona, California, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, and Rhode Island.

• Domino’s:

For those with a taste for pizza, Domino’s offers a variety of choices. Check if your local Domino’s is involved in the RMP in California or Arizona, allowing you to pay with your EBT card as you would in a regular store transaction.

• Panda Express:

Panda Express has locations that accept EBT in states like California and Arizona. As with other restaurants in the RMP, only specific locations participate, and these establishments offer a variety of American Chinese dishes to eligible EBT recipients.

• Papa Murphy’s:

Papa Murphy’s, which offers a take-and-bake pizza option, is also part of the RMP. This allows EBT users to purchase ready-to-cook pizzas from select locations, adapting the usual EBT restrictions that prevent the purchase of hot, prepared foods.

• Arby’s:

Arby’s, known for its roast beef sandwiches, has some locations that accept EBT under the RMP, providing another dining option for eligible SNAP recipients.

• Jack in the Box:

Jack in the Box participates in the RMP in both California and Arizona, allowing eligible SNAP recipients to use their EBT cards to purchase hot, prepared meals. In Arizona, Jack in the Box is one of the numerous establishments that accept EBT, and these locations include several cities across the state. Over 200 Jack in the Box locations in California are approved for the RMP​.

• Jamba Juice:

Jamba Juice also participates in the RMP at select locations in certain states. This enables EBT cardholders to purchase smoothies and some healthy snack options.

• Carl’s Jr.:

Carl’s Jr. serves a variety of burgers, fries, and breakfast options across its numerous outlets. In Arizona and other states with participating locations, you can use your EBT card to purchase meals through the RMP at this well-liked fast food chain.

• Popeyes:

Known for its spicy fried chicken, Popeyes allows EBT payments in several states, including Arizona and California. Select locations in Maryland, Illinois, Rhode Island, Michigan, and Virginia also accept EBT cards.

Which Fast Food Restaurants Do Not Accept EBT or SNAP?

Although some restaurants accept EBT for food purchases, many restrictions apply, especially within chain restaurants. Not every chain location might participate in the EBT program, and the ability to use EBT can depend on state-specific initiatives like the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP), which is limited to a few states.

Many larger chain restaurants do not participate in the RMP and thus do not accept EBT. These include:

• Krispy Kreme
• Shake Shack
• Wingstop
• Qdoba Mexican Grill
• Tim Hortons
• In-N-Out Burger
• Zaxby’s
• WingStreet
• Cinnabon
• Chick-fil-A
• Dunkin’ Donuts
• Five Guys
• Hardee’s
• A&W Restaurants
• Whataburger
• Long John Silver’s
• Panera Bread
• Starbucks
• TCBY
• Chipotle
• Einstein Bros. Bagels
• Dairy Queen

Conclusion

The expansion of programs like the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) reflects a growing acknowledgment of the unique challenges faced by certain population segments, such as the elderly, disabled, and homeless. By allowing EBT cards at fast food restaurants, these programs provide a crucial source of accessible and affordable meals for those who may have difficulty preparing food at home.

While participation and menu options can vary by location, understanding where and how to use EBT benefits for prepared meals can greatly assist eligible individuals. As the program evolves, staying informed about local options and regulations is key to maximizing the benefits available through SNAP and EBT.

Frequently Asked Questions