Which Fast Food Restaurants Take EBT?

Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) is the system used by states to issue Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. SNAP, formerly known as food stamps, provides financial assistance to low-income individuals and families to purchase eligible food items. The program’s primary goal is to help households acquire nutritious food.

Eligibility for Using EBT at Restaurants

SNAP benefits are generally for purchasing unprepared food items at authorized grocery stores and farmers’ markets, for home preparation. An exception exists through the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP), which permits certain EBT recipients to use their benefits for prepared meals at participating establishments.

The Restaurant Meals Program is not available nationwide, as it is an optional program that individual states can choose to implement. States that operate an RMP generally target specific vulnerable populations who may face challenges preparing their own meals. These groups often include individuals who are homeless, elderly, or disabled, or those who lack access to cooking facilities. Participation in the RMP allows eligible individuals to purchase prepared, hot food from authorized restaurants, including some fast food establishments.

Finding Participating Fast Food Locations

Locating fast food restaurants that accept EBT under the Restaurant Meals Program requires specific verification, as not all establishments participate even within states offering the RMP. Restaurants must apply and be approved by their state’s SNAP agency to accept EBT for prepared meals. A common method for identifying participating locations is to look for signage prominently displayed at the restaurant’s entrance or drive-thru.

Many states provide resources on their official SNAP or EBT program websites that list authorized RMP restaurants. Contacting the state’s EBT customer service number may also provide information on nearby restaurants that are part of the program. Some online store locators for major fast food chains might indicate EBT acceptance, though this feature is not universally available.

Using Your EBT Card at a Restaurant

When you have identified a participating fast food restaurant and are ready to make a purchase, the process for using your EBT card is straightforward. It operates much like a standard debit card transaction. You will present your EBT card to the cashier, who will then process it through their payment terminal.

After the card is swiped or inserted, you will be prompted to enter your Personal Identification Number (PIN) on a keypad. Entering your PIN securely authorizes the transaction. Once the PIN is entered and the purchase is confirmed, the system will deduct the cost of the eligible food items from your SNAP benefits balance. Only SNAP-eligible food items can be purchased; non-food items, alcoholic beverages, or tobacco products are excluded.