Where Is EBT Accepted for Fast Food?
Discover how and where EBT can be used for fast food, including eligibility, participating restaurants, and the purchase process.
Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards distribute food assistance benefits. These cards function similarly to debit cards, allowing recipients to access their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) funds for approved food purchases. While EBT primarily supports grocery store transactions for unprepared foods, specific circumstances permit its use at fast-food establishments.
Understanding EBT Use for Prepared Meals
EBT benefits typically cover groceries for home preparation, but a program called the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) allows individuals to purchase hot, prepared meals. This program assists SNAP clients unable to prepare food or lacking cooking facilities. The RMP is a state-level option, so not all states participate.
Currently, the RMP is available in a limited number of states: Arizona, California, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New York, Rhode Island, and Virginia. To be eligible for the RMP, all members of a SNAP household must meet specific criteria. This includes individuals who are elderly (60 or older), those receiving disability or blindness payments due to a permanent disability, individuals experiencing homelessness, and spouses of eligible SNAP clients.
Eligibility for the RMP is determined by the state agency, and eligible individuals are automatically enrolled. EBT cards for participants are coded by the state to allow transactions at participating restaurants. Cardholders can verify their RMP eligibility by checking their online EBT account (e.g., ebtEDGE.com), using a mobile app, or by contacting the customer service number on their EBT card.
Locating Participating Fast Food Establishments
Identifying fast-food restaurants that accept EBT under the Restaurant Meals Program requires verification, as participation can vary even within the same chain. Many national fast-food chains participate in the RMP in states where it is available. These include McDonald’s, Burger King, Subway, Jack in the Box, KFC, Carl’s Jr., and Taco Bell.
Not every location of a listed chain accepts EBT for prepared meals. Participation is location-specific, and franchises must be authorized by the state and the USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) to accept SNAP benefits. Look for signs or decals displayed at the restaurant stating “Participating Restaurant: SNAP Restaurant Meals Program” or featuring a fork and knife symbol.
Another way is to inquire directly with restaurant staff before placing an order. State-specific online directories or lists are available on state SNAP websites or through local benefits offices, listing authorized vendors. These resources help cardholders confirm participating locations.
Making Purchases with EBT at Fast Food Restaurants
Once a participating fast-food restaurant is identified, using an EBT card is similar to using a debit or credit card. The cardholder presents their EBT card, swiped through a point-of-sale (POS) terminal. The individual then enters their Personal Identification Number (PIN) to authorize the purchase.
Under the RMP, EBT benefits can be used to purchase hot, prepared meals such as burgers, fries, pizza slices, or other menu items. The program allows for the purchase of any meal offered at the restaurant. However, there are limitations on what cannot be purchased with EBT at these locations. Ineligible items include cold items not intended for immediate consumption, non-food items, alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, vitamins, and pet food.
The transaction draws funds from the SNAP (food) portion of the EBT benefits. Sales tax cannot be charged on EBT transactions, and EBT benefits cannot be used for tips or delivery fees. If the EBT balance is insufficient to cover the full cost of the meal, a mixed transaction can be processed, allowing the remaining balance to be paid with another payment method, such as cash or a debit/credit card.