In the United States, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)—commonly known as food stamps—has long been a cornerstone of the nation’s effort to support low-income individuals and families in accessing food. Many SNAP participants frequently ask: What Fast Food Places Take EBT? SNAP payments are typically used to buy groceries from supermarkets and farmers markets. Absolutely, but only in certain circumstances. weed removal.
This article explores the fast food restaurants that accept EBT, the circumstances under which this is possible, the states that support such use, and how eligible participants can take advantage of this opportunity through the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP).
What Is EBT?
EBT stands for Electronic Benefit Transfer, a card-based system that allows recipients of government assistance—such as SNAP—to pay for food using funds provided by the program. The EBT card works much like a debit card and is loaded monthly with the recipient’s benefit amount.
Can You Use EBT at Fast Food Restaurants?
Yes, but only under specific circumstances, is the succinct response. While EBT cards are primarily designed for use at grocery stores and retailers selling food items, there is an exception known as the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP).
What Is the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP)?
TEligible SNAP beneficiaries can buy hot, prepared meals at authorized restaurants under the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP), a federal alternative. The program is intended for those who are unable to cook for themselves, such as:
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Elderly individuals (age 60 or older)
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People with disabilities
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The homeless
This program helps ensure that some of the most vulnerable populations can still access warm, nutritious meals—even if they don’t have the ability to cook.
Which States Participate in the RMP?
Only a few states have decided to take part in the Restaurant Meals Program thus far. These include:
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Arizona
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California
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Illinois
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Maryland
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Michigan
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Rhode Island
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Virginia
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New York (pilot program)
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Texas (limited participation)
Each state has different rules, counties, and restaurants that are part of the program. It’s crucial to check with your local SNAP office for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Which Fast Food Restaurants Accept EBT?
Several national and regional chains participate in the program in eligible states.
The following is a comprehensive list of well-known fast food restaurants that are known to take EBT under RMP:
1. Burger King
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Available in states like California and Arizona
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Offers full menu items
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Must be in an RMP-approved location
2. Taco Bell
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Known to participate in Arizona and California
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Great option for low-cost meals
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Only available at participating locations
3. Subway
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Offers made-to-order sandwiches and salads
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Accepts EBT in multiple RMP states
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Good for relatively healthy fast food
4. Domino’s Pizza
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Participates in some California counties
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Takeout and dine-in options (no delivery with EBT)
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Only available at select locations
5. KFC (Kentucky Fried Chicken)
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Popular fried chicken chain
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Participates in RMP in places like California and Arizona
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Must be an authorized location
6. El Pollo Loco
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Participates in California RMP
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Known for flame-grilled chicken
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Offers healthier fast food options
7. Denny’s
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Full-service diner with breakfast, lunch, and dinner
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Limited participation in California
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Great option for a sit-down meal
8. Pizza Hut
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Select locations participate in California RMP
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Limited to takeout in many places
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EBT cannot be used for delivery
9. Jack in the Box
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Accepts EBT at many California and Arizona locations
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Huge variety of burgers, tacos, and breakfast items
10. Carl’s Jr.
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Accepts EBT in participating California locations
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Known for large burgers and fast service
11. Wienerschnitzel
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Hot dog and chili cheese-focused chain
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Participates in RMP in parts of California
12. Popeyes
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Accepts EBT in some areas of California and Arizona
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Known for spicy fried chicken
13. Del Taco
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Participates in California’s RMP
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Offers a mix of tacos, burgers, and fries
How to Find Out Which Restaurants Accept EBT in Your Area
Finding out where you can use your EBT card at fast food places depends heavily on your state and local county. Here’s how you can find out:
1. Check Your State’s SNAP Website
Each participating state will have a list of restaurants and counties where EBT is accepted through the RMP.
2. Call Your Local SNAP Office
They can confirm your eligibility and provide an up-to-date list of participating restaurants.
3. Look for RMP Signage
Most restaurants that accept EBT under the RMP will have signs on their windows or near the register indicating participation.
Who Is Eligible to Use EBT at Restaurants?
To use your EBT card at a fast food restaurant, you must meet your state’s eligibility requirements for the RMP. This generally includes:
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Being aged 60 or older
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Being disabled and receiving disability benefits
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Being homeless
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Being a spouse of an eligible person
You must also live in a state and county that participates in the program.
EBT’s Drawbacks in Fast Food Restaurants
While the RMP is helpful, it comes with a few limitations:
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Not available in every state
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Only certain restaurants participate
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You can’t use EBT for delivery apps like Uber Eats or DoorDash
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You can’t buy non-food items (e.g., drinks with alcohol, cleaning products, etc.)
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Must be used in-store or at the drive-thru (in most cases)
Pros and Cons of Using EBT at Fast Food Places
✅ Pros
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Accessibility: Makes food more accessible for seniors, homeless, and disabled individuals.
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Convenience: Provides hot meals to people without cooking facilities.
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Variety: Offers more meal options than traditional groceries.
❌ Cons
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Limited Availability: Only select states and counties offer it.
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Nutritional Issues: Fast food frequently contains large amounts of fat, sodium, and calories.
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Not Universal: Most states do not participate in the RMP.
The Future of EBT and Fast Food
As awareness of food insecurity grows, more advocates are pushing for expansion of the RMP. Some propose increasing participating states or adding more fast food chains that offer healthier choices.
Technology may also play a role. In the future, EBT acceptance for online fast food orders or delivery might become a reality. Pilot programs have already tested using EBT for grocery deliveries—fast food could follow.
Alternatives to Fast Food for EBT Users
Even if your state doesn’t participate in the RMP, you still have options for quick and convenient meals using your EBT benefits:
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Grocery Stores with Deli Sections: Many grocery stores sell hot, ready-to-eat meals from a deli or food court.
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Farmers Markets: Some accept EBT and offer fresh, local produce.
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Meal Prep Boxes: While limited, some pilot programs have allowed EBT usage for healthy meal kit subscriptions.
Conclusion
The Restaurant Meals Program meets a critical need for people who are unable to cook or do not have access to a kitchen, even though fast food and SNAP benefits may seem like an odd combination. Though availability is currently limited to specific states and individuals, it serves as a lifeline for thousands who rely on fast food as their only hot meal option.
Understanding how, where, and when you can use your EBT card at restaurants can help you make the most of your benefits. As policies evolve and awareness spreads, we may see even more restaurants and states join this essential program—bringing us closer to a more food-secure future for all.
Q1: Can I use EBT at McDonald’s?
Only in certain locations that participate in the Restaurant Meals Program. Not all McDonald’s accept EBT.
Q2: What restaurants accept EBT in California?
Popular options include Subway, Domino’s, Taco Bell, KFC, Jack in the Box, and more—depending on location.
Q3: Can I use EBT on food delivery apps?
Generally, no. EBT is not accepted on services like Uber Eats, DoorDash, or Grubhub.
Q4: Do I need to be homeless to use EBT at restaurants?
No. Seniors (60+), people with disabilities, and their spouses may also qualify for RMP.
Q5: Can I use EBT at fast food in Texas or Florida?
Texas has a limited pilot. Florida currently does not participate in the Restaurant Meals Program.
