Have you ever heard of the Restaurant Meals Program?
Of course, you definitely have, but if you haven't then just pinpoint this—it is a program that allows eligible SNAP clients to get the hot and prepared meal they can't easily get for themselves.
Many of us typically know and assume food stamps, now distributed through Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards, can only be used at grocery stores. That's right—it is the EBT's primary focus.
But the truth is, there are a growing number of restaurants participating in the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP), allowing you to use your EBT card to purchase hot, prepared meals!
Even better, many food delivery services now accept EBT, which means you can order food online and have it delivered right to your door and pay for the delivery with your EBT card.
Using your EBT card to purchase meals requires that the restaurant or fast food establishment participates in the RMP. While many restaurants across the country participate, finding them can be challenging. Luckily, you've reached the right place!
In this article, I'll show you how to find restaurants that accept EBT near you.
Table of Contents
Which SNAP Clients Qualify for EBT Meals at Restaurants?
Usually, eligibility for SNAP meals varies by state.
Eligibility for the RMP requires two things: first, your state must have an RMP in place, and second, all members of your household must meet the SNAP eligibility requirements below:
- Elderly (60 years of age or older);
- Disabled (receives disability or blindness payments or receives disability retirement benefits from a governmental agency because of a disability considered permanent);
- Homeless; or
- A spouse of a SNAP client who is eligible for the RMP.
How to Find Restaurants Accepting EBT Near Me
There are many state-approved methods to find nearby restaurants accepting EBT cards, which include:
- State SNAP agency websites: Many state agencies maintain lists of participating restaurants.
- USDA Food and Nutrition Service: This federal agency provides a national directory of RMP restaurants.
- Apps like "SNAP Restaurant Finder" and "BenefitsCal" (CA specific): These apps allow you to search for restaurants by location and program participation.
- Look for signage: Participating restaurants often display EBT or SNAP logos at their entrance.
What Restaurants Accept EBT Near Me
While I can't provide a complete list of restaurants and fast food places that accept EBT near you, here are some restaurants that should accept EBT in a couple of states:
- Burger King: Accepts EBT cards in Arizona and California.
- Carl's Jr.: Accepts EBT cards in Arizona and California.
- Domino's: Accepts EBT cards in Arizona and California.
- KFC: Accepts EBT cards in states that participate in the Restaurant Meals Program, including Arizona and California. Illinois, Maryland, Michigan, Rhode Island, and Virginia offer this program only in certain cities or counties.
- Little Caesars: Only select locations in San Diego, California, accept EBT cards.
- McDonald's: Accepts EBT cards in Arizona, California, and Michigan.
- Popeyes: Accepts EBT cards in Arizona and California. Also accepts EBT cards in select cities and counties in Illinois, Maryland, Michigan, Rhode Island, and Virginia.
- Subway: Accepts EBT cards in Arizona, California, and Rhode Island.
- Taco Bell: Select locations in Arizona and California accept EBT cards.
- Wendy's: Only a handful of California counties accept EBT cards at Wendy's.
- El Pollo Loco: Accepts EBT cards in California and Arizona.
Which Fast Food Places (Restaurants) Accept EBT
Not all states offer the RMP, and participation varies among fast-food places.
Here are some popular fast food places known to accept EBT in select locations:
- National chains: Burger King, Carl's Jr., Domino's, KFC, Little Caesars, Subway, Popeyes, Taco Bell, Wendy's, El Pollo Loco.
- Regional chains: Check local listings for chains like Sheetz, Wawa, RaceTrac, and QuikTrip, as participation can vary.
What to Expect When Paying With EBT at Restaurants
Paying with EBT cards at SNAP-eligible restaurants can be a great way to enjoy delicious food while stretching your budget further. However, there are some important considerations you should know when using your EBT cards at restaurants, which include:
- Limited purchase options: You typically cannot use EBT for groceries or alcoholic beverages at participating restaurants. Only prepared meals are allowed.
- Separate transactions: Some restaurants may require separate transactions for EBT purchases and other forms of payment.
- Meal restrictions: Depending on the program, there might be limits on meal frequency or dollar amounts per purchase.
Final Thoughts
With careful planning and a little research, using your EBT card at restaurants can be a game-changer for your budget and your taste buds. It's no longer just about grabbing a quick bite at a fast-food joint. Participating restaurants offer a variety of cuisines, from familiar comfort food to exciting ethnic flavors, allowing you to explore different culinary avenues while staying within your financial means.
Remember, using this program isn't about limitations, it's about opening doors to new dining experiences and making the most of your resources. So next time you're craving a delicious meal, don't shy away from exploring the diverse options available at EBT-friendly restaurants. Bon appétit!