If you are a recipient of SNAP benefits and are looking for restaurants that accept EBT (food stamps) to purchase hot meals, you’ve come to the right place. We have compiled a list of fast food restaurants that accept EBT near you.
These restaurants have participated in Restaurant Meals Programs (RMP) under specific guidelines set by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), allowing you to take advantage of your food stamp benefits.
Many People rely on government assistance programs like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) to meet their basic food needs. but it can be hard to find food places that take EBT for hot meals.
Restaurant Meals Program (RMP):
The Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) helps eligible SNAP clients who can’t prepare meals or don’t have permanent houses to store and cook food. They can buy ready-made meals at restaurants with their SNAP benefits. The majority of states have accepted the RMP.
Fast food restaurants are included in these programs because they are easier to get to and cost less than fancy restaurants. This helps people with limited resources still get hot, prepared meals when they need them.
In this article, we will explore some restaurants near you that take EBT food stamps, so you can find a convenient place to get hot food through government assistance programs.
Fast Food Restaurants That Accept EBT Near You in 2023
Are you wondering what restaurants accept EBT near you? We’ve compiled a list of some great options in your area.
- Del Taco
- Burger King
- Domino’s
- Papa Murphy’s
- El Pollo Loco
- Dairy Queen
- Subway
- Wienerschnitzel
- Denny’s
- Taco Bell
- KFC
- Church’s Texas Chicken
- Jack in the Box
- Rally’s
- Pizza Hut
- McDonald’s
- Jamba Juice
- Popeye’s
- Little Caesars
- Wendy’s
- Papa Murphy’s
- Carl’s Jr
- Blimpie
- Panda Express
Del Taco
Del Taco is a Mexican fast-food chain with 103 locations that accept SNAP EBT payments, which is great news for those who rely on food stamps. Most of these locations are in Arizona and California. Del Taco has participated in the RMP in some locations.
From breakfast items to desserts and drinks, they have a wide range of options on their menu, including Tamales, Crispy Chicken, Tacos, Tortas, Burritos, Quesadillas, Nachos, Burgers, Fries, Fiesta Packs, Salad, Desserts, Shakes, and more. Del Taco is a convenient and affordable option for Mexican food.
Burger King
Burger King was started in Florida in 1954 by David Edgerton and James McLamore. Now It is the second-largest fast-food chain globally, operating in over 100 countries with more than 18,700 locations. They are known for the Whopper, a classic hamburger or cheeseburger. Their menu includes chicken nuggets, sandwiches, fries, desserts, and drinks.
In Arizona and California, customers who use food stamps can pay with EBT cards at Burger King.
Domino’s
Domino’s is a pizza chain that started in Michigan in 1960. It has grown to more than 15,000 locations in over 85 countries.
Customers can use EBT cards to pay in Arizona and California.
They have been refining their recipes for 60 years and offer a variety of pizzas. One popular choice is the Philly Steak pizza with steak, onions, green peppers, and mushrooms on a thick crust.
Papa Murphy’s
Papa Murphy’s is an innovative take-and-bake pizza concept where customers customize their pizza toppings and bake it at home.
Customers can pay with SNAP/EBT benefits, but only in-store, not for delivery.
They have over 1,150 locations in the US. You can bake your pizza at home for the freshest and hottest slice.
They have lots of toppings and sauces to choose from, so you can make your perfect pizza. One of their popular pizzas is the gourmet vegetarian pizza with garlic sauce, cheese, and lots of veggies.
El Pollo Loco
El Pollo Loco is a restaurant that mixes Mexican and Californian food. It’s family-owned and started in LA but now has over 500 locations in six states. They started in 1980 and were bought by Denny’s, Inc. in 1983.
EBT payments are accepted at 222 locations, mostly in California and Arizona.
Their most famous dish is grilled chicken served with tortillas, rice, beans, pico de gallo, and salsas. Other options include burritos, tostadas, nachos, and salads. You should try their beef birria and birria taco combo.
Dairy Queen
Dairy Queen accepts EBT cards in some states, like Arizona, Maryland, Rhode Island, Illinois, California, and Michigan. Some states have extended the program to include the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) allowing EBT cardholders to buy hot and prepared meals at designated locations, including Dairy Queen.
Dairy Queen is a fast-food chain that started in Illinois in 1940. It’s known for soft-serve ice cream and a variety of frozen desserts. Dairy Queen has over 6,800 locations worldwide and serves burgers, chicken, sandwiches, and desserts. The dipped cone and Blizzard are popular soft-serve items.
Subway
Many people in the United States are asking – does Subway accept EBT?
Yes! Subway participates in the Restaurant Meals Program in select states. You can use your EBT card to pay in-store in the following states, but not through the app or delivery services.
- Arizona
- California
- Illinois
- Maryland
- Michigan
- New York
- Rhode Island
You can use your EBT card to pay for Subway, just like using a debit or credit card.
Subway is a sandwich chain that started as Pete’s Subway in 1965 by Fred DeLuca to help pay for his medical school education. It now has over 37,000 restaurants in more than 100 countries.
Customers enjoy customizing their sandwiches with fresh ingredients from Subway’s menu. A popular sandwich is the Chicken Bacon and Ranch sub.
Denny’s
Denny’s is a fast food and diner-style restaurant chain that serves American breakfasts all day and night. It started as a donut and coffee shop in California in the 1950s and has grown into a popular breakfast spot.
Some Denny’s locations accept SNAP payments through Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT), but only in California and with certain restrictions.
Paying with your SNAP EBT card at Denny’s is easy. You just need to swipe your card at the restaurant when you visit in person. You can choose to dine in or pick up your meal, but unfortunately, delivery is not available.
Only 38 out of 1,432 Denny’s locations in America take EBT, but one location in Glendale, Arizona is authorized to accept it.
Taco Bell
Taco Bell was founded by Glen Bell in 1962, and started as a California-based Mexican-inspired fast food restaurant.
Currently, SNAP EBT is accepted at approximately seven out of all 7,726 Taco Bell locations across the United States. However, Some states are working on creating their own Restaurant Meals Programs, which could expand the number of restaurants that accept EBT.
Most of the menu items at Taco Bell are eligible for purchase with EBT, including burritos, tacos, Mexican pizzas, Crunchwraps, quesadillas, nachos, bowls, and beverages.
To use EBT at Taco Bell, you must meet the eligibility criteria for the Restaurant Meals Program, which include:
- Living in a state with the program,
- Being unable to cook at home due to age, homelessness, or disability,
- Purchasing food from an EBT-approved restaurant.
KFC
KFC is an American fast food restaurant chain headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky, known for its specialization in fried chicken.
KFC and Burger King have merged to become the second-largest restaurant chain globally, offering a popular menu of fried chicken.
KFC accepts EBT as a form of payment, but it is only available in states that participate in the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP).
Currently, around 131 out of all 3,913 KFC locations nationwide accept SNAP EBT.
KFC is now allowing people to use SNAP benefits to buy their food items through the Restaurant Meals Program. This is helpful for individuals who have difficulty cooking, have time constraints, or are limited by age or disability. Eligible items include chicken, sides, salads, and desserts.
Jack in the Box
Jack in the Box is a fast food chain that was established in 1951 in San Diego and is still in operation today. They offer burgers, chicken sandwiches, salads, and unique sides such as tiny tacos and jumbo egg rolls.
The Jack in the Box locations in Arizona and California that accept EBT and SNAP benefits are approved by the Restaurant Meals Program. This allows customers with limited income to enjoy their menu.
Approximately 25% of the 2,228 Jack in the Box restaurants in the United States accept SNAP EBT payments. This means that approximately 547 locations across Arizona and California allow EBT as a form of payment.
Rally’s
Rally’s is a popular American fast-food restaurant that serves comfort food like hot dogs, burgers, and milkshakes. They accept SNAP EBT cards as a payment method. However, not all EBT cardholders can use them to pay at restaurants like Rally’s. Eligibility requirements and programs, such as the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP), may determine whether EBT cards can be used.
Pizza Hut
Pizza Hut was started by two brothers from Wichita State University in 1958. It quickly became popular with college students and grew to six restaurants in its first year.
Today, Pizza Hut has almost 18,000 locations worldwide. Of their locations, 218 restaurants across Arizona and California accept EBT payments through the Restaurant Meals Program.
Their pan pizza is known for its thick crust and is a customer favorite. One popular pizza option is the Italian Classic, which has Italian sausage, pepperoni, mushrooms, roasted red pepper, and mozzarella.
McDonald’s
Many people in the United States are asking – does Mcdonald’s take EBT?
Yes! Some McDonald’s restaurants accept EBT/Food stamps, but it’s best to check with the specific location before ordering.
McDonald’s is a popular fast-food chain with many locations around the world. It started as a burger stand in 1940 and began franchising in 1953.
The menu has classic burgers, chicken nuggets, and fries, with occasional new items. The McDonald’s logo, featuring the golden arches, is famous worldwide.
What Types of Restaurants Accept EBT Payments?
Many types of restaurants accept EBT payments, expanding food access for needy individuals and families.
- Fast food chains like Burger King, Subway, Pizza Hut, and McDonald’s are among the restaurants that accept EBT at select locations.
- Mexican-inspired fast food chains, such as Taco Bell and El Pollo Loco, participate in the EBT program.
- Take-and-bake pizza restaurants like Papa Murphy’s allow EBT card usage in certain states.
- Family-style restaurants like Denny’s and Jack in the Box accept EBT in specific locations through the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP).
- Local eateries, including some smaller and independently-owned restaurants, may accept EBT payments depending on their participation in the program.
- Food trucks and food stands can also participate in the EBT program, providing portable and convenient meal options.
- Cafeterias and buffets style restaurants, such as Golden Corral and Hometown Buffet, may accept EBT payments for eligible meals. Some small cafeterias found in schools, hospitals, or senior centers may also accept food stamps.
How to Find Fast Food Restaurants That Accept EBT Near Me?
To find EBT-friendly restaurants near you, try these methods:
- Use online resources like restaurant locators or directories specific to your region. You can also take advantage of mobile apps that provide EBT-acceptance information.
- Check your state’s official SNAP or EBT website for a list of authorized restaurants or search tools like SNAP Retailer Locator.
- Ask at the Restaurant: If you are uncertain about a restaurant’s acceptance of EBT payments, please ask a staff member.
- Explore online community forums and social media groups for recommendations.
- Ask friends or families who use EBT for personal experiences or recommendations.
What Foods Can You Buy with an EBT Card at a Restaurant?
When using an EBT card at a restaurant, you can typically buy certain food items that are considered eligible.
You can buy any food for the household, such as:
- Hot meals prepared for immediate consumption
- Fruits and vegetables
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Dairy products
- Breads and cereals
- Desserts, baked goods and non-alcoholic beverages
- Seeds and plants, which produce food for the household to eat.
Households can not use SNAP benefits to buy following items
- Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes, or any tobacco product
- Vitamins, medicines, and supplements.
- Live animals (except shellfish, fish removed from the water, and animals slaughtered before pick-up from the store).
- Hot-selling foods at the point of sale.
- Any nonfood items such as:
- Pet foods
- Cleaning supplies, paper products, and other household supplies.
- Hygiene items, cosmetics
Conclusion
Restaurants that accept EBT help people who rely on government assistance to get nutritious meals. These restaurants also support the local economy, promote inclusivity, and bring communities together. It’s important to support EBT acceptance so everyone can enjoy eating out without sacrificing their dietary needs.
More states are developing Restaurant Meals Programs, which will make it easier for EBT users to find places to eat. To improve food accessibility, everyone needs to work together – government agencies, community organizations, and restaurant owners.
Let’s keep supporting EBT acceptance in restaurants to promote equality and strengthen our communities. If you need any help or have questions, just ask.
FAQs about Restaurants that accept EBT
How do I know which restaurants accept EBT?
Restaurants in the RMP usually display a sign or sticker to indicate they accept EBT. You can also visit your state’s EBT program website or contact your local social services office for a list of participating restaurants near you.
Can I use EBT benefits to buy prepared meals at any restaurant?
No, not all restaurants accept EBT payments. Only specific restaurants that participate in Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) can accept EBT payments for prepared meals. The eligibility of restaurants to participate in such programs can vary by state
What kind of food can I purchase with EBT at restaurants?
You can purchase meals that meet the program’s guidelines for hot, prepared food, Fruits and vegetables, Meat, poultry, fish, and Dairy products. Certain items like alcoholic beverages, cigarettes, or non-food items are not eligible for EBT payment.
