What Fast Food Restaurants Take EBT?

Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) delivers government benefits, primarily Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) funds, to eligible individuals and families. EBT cards provide an electronic method for recipients to purchase groceries and other eligible food items. While EBT cards function similarly to debit cards, their use is generally restricted to uncooked grocery items. Hot, prepared foods from restaurants are typically not covered.

Understanding the Restaurant Meals Program

The Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) is a state-optional initiative allowing certain EBT recipients to purchase prepared meals from approved restaurants. This program serves as an exception to the general rule prohibiting EBT use for hot foods. Its availability varies significantly across the country, as states choose whether to implement it. Currently, a limited number of states participate:
Arizona
California
Illinois
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
New York
Rhode Island
Virginia

Participation in the RMP is generally limited to specific categories of EBT recipients who may face challenges preparing their own meals. These typically include individuals experiencing homelessness, those aged 60 or older, or individuals with disabilities. Spouses of eligible individuals may also be included in the program.

For a restaurant to participate in the RMP, it must voluntarily apply and receive authorization from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food and Nutrition Service (FNS). This process ensures the establishment meets specific requirements. Even within participating states, not all restaurants accept EBT under the RMP; participation is specific to individual locations or franchises. The rules and eligible recipients for the RMP are determined at the state level.

Finding Participating Restaurants

Identifying fast food restaurants that accept EBT through the Restaurant Meals Program requires specific investigation, as there is no universal, constantly updated list covering all locations nationwide. While some well-known chains like McDonald’s, Subway, KFC, Wendy’s, Jack in the Box, Popeyes, and Taco Bell may participate, their acceptance of EBT is often limited to select locations within RMP-participating states, not across the entire chain. A restaurant’s participation is site-specific, meaning one location might accept EBT while another in the same city does not.

The most reliable way to find restaurants participating in the RMP is by consulting your state’s official Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or EBT program website. Many participating states offer interactive maps or comprehensive lists of authorized restaurants on their government sites. These online resources are generally updated periodically to reflect current participants.

Another direct approach is to contact your local SNAP or EBT office. Caseworkers or program representatives can often provide current lists or guidance on where to find participating establishments in your area. Some restaurants that participate in the RMP may display signage, such as a decal or poster, indicating their acceptance of EBT cards for the program. This signage might include phrases like “Participating Restaurant: SNAP Restaurant Meals Program” or feature a fork and knife symbol. Directly calling a fast food restaurant is a practical way to inquire about their current RMP participation before visiting.

Using EBT at Participating Locations

Once an eligible individual locates a restaurant participating in the Restaurant Meals Program, the process of using an EBT card for payment is similar to using a standard debit card. The customer presents their EBT card to the cashier, then enters their Personal Identification Number (PIN) to authorize the purchase. Upon successful completion, a receipt is provided, which typically displays the cost of the meal and the remaining balance on the EBT card.

EBT benefits used through the RMP are specifically for eligible prepared meals and non-alcoholic beverages. Items that are not food-related, such as household supplies, cleaning products, or personal care items, cannot be purchased with EBT. Alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, and gratuities are prohibited. If a purchase includes both eligible and ineligible items, or if the total cost exceeds the available EBT balance, a split payment can be arranged, allowing the customer to pay the remaining amount using cash, a debit card, or another accepted payment method.

While the system is designed to be straightforward, occasional issues may arise. System outages can temporarily prevent EBT transactions. A cashier might also be unfamiliar with the RMP, leading to confusion or an initial denial of the transaction. If a transaction is declined despite sufficient funds and confirmed eligibility, checking the EBT card balance via the provided customer service number or online portal is a first step. If an error occurs, such as being charged sales tax on an EBT purchase, which is not permitted, the customer should first attempt to resolve the issue with the restaurant or contact their state EBT customer service for assistance.