What Restaurants Accept EBT Near Me: Find Local Places That Take Your SNAP Card
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If you’re searching “what restaurants accept EBT near me”, you might be surprised to know that many fast-food chains and local diners now take EBT payments through the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP). This program allows eligible SNAP users to buy hot, ready-to-eat meals when cooking at home isn’t an option.
In this guide, you’ll learn how EBT works at restaurants, how to find nearby places that accept your SNAP card, and which national and local restaurants participate by state.
How EBT Works at Restaurants
Many people think EBT cards can only be used at grocery stores, but in some states, you can also use them at select restaurants. This is possible through a special program designed to help people who may not have access to a kitchen or the ability to cook.
What Is the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP)?
The Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) is part of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). It allows qualified individuals to buy prepared meals at participating restaurants using their EBT cards.
The goal of the program is to make it easier for seniors, people with disabilities, and those who are homeless to access hot, nutritious meals.
Who Can Use EBT at Restaurants?
Only certain SNAP recipients can use their EBT cards at restaurants through the RMP. You may qualify if you meet one or more of these conditions:
- You are 60 years old or older.
- You have a disability and receive disability benefits.
- You are homeless and do not have a place to store or prepare food.
- You are the spouse of someone who meets one of the conditions above.
Once you qualify, your EBT card will be marked as “RMP eligible,” allowing you to use it at participating restaurants in your state. This makes it easier for people who cannot cook at home to still enjoy healthy, prepared meals safely and affordably.
How to Find Restaurants That Accept EBT Near Me Open now
If you’re wondering where to use your EBT card to buy meals right now, there are several easy ways to find restaurants that accept EBT near you.
Whether you prefer to search online or use your phone, these tools can help you locate EBT-friendly restaurants open now within minutes.
Use State SNAP or EBT Websites
The most reliable way to find restaurants that accept EBT near you is through your state’s official SNAP or EBT website. States that participate in the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) usually publish a full list of approved restaurants.
You can search by city, ZIP code, or county to see which restaurants near you currently accept EBT. These lists also include details like restaurant names, addresses, and contact numbers, helping you plan your visit before heading out.
>>> Learn more: What Is EBT Cash? What You Can Use It For
Use Google Maps to Find EBT-Friendly Restaurants
Google Maps is another quick way to locate restaurants that accept SNAP EBT in your area. Simply type “restaurants that accept EBT near me” into the search bar. You’ll see a list of nearby locations, customer reviews, and most importantly, whether they’re open now.
This is especially useful if you need to find food late at night or on weekends. You can also use filters like “Open Now” or “Within 5 miles” to narrow your search for the most convenient options.
Try Apps That Show Nearby EBT Restaurants
There are also mobile apps that make it easier to find and manage your EBT-friendly options. The most popular one is the Providers App (formerly Fresh EBT), which helps you:
- Check your EBT balance instantly.
- See nearby stores and restaurants that accept EBT.
- View hours, directions, and customer reviews.
Having a reliable phone makes these tools even more useful. With AirTalk Wireless, eligible SNAP or EBT participants can get a free phone and monthly service through the Lifeline program. It’s the easiest way to stay connected and find EBT restaurants open now anytime, anywhere.
What Restaurants Accept EBT Cards Near Me
If you qualify for the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP), you can use your EBT card at many national and local restaurants near you. Many well-known chains and small diners across participating states now accept SNAP EBT for hot, ready-to-eat meals.
National Restaurant Chains That Accept EBT
Some of the most popular national restaurant chains that participate in the RMP include:
- Subway – Offers sandwiches, salads, and meal combos at select RMP locations.
- Popeyes – Known for fried chicken and sides, available in some states that run RMP.
- Burger King – Accepts EBT at select branches in states like California and Arizona.
- Taco Bell – Provides affordable hot meal options at approved RMP locations.
- Domino’s Pizza – Participating stores allow EBT payments for in-store orders.
- Pizza Hut – Accepts EBT at certain dine-in and carryout restaurants.
- Denny’s – A full-service diner offering breakfast and dinner options through RMP.
- KFC – Serves hot chicken meals under the RMP in eligible areas.
- Carl’s Jr. – Participates in RMP in select states such as Arizona and California.
- El Pollo Loco – A popular choice for grilled chicken and Mexican-inspired meals, available at many EBT-approved restaurants.
Keep in mind that not every location of these chains accepts EBT. Participation depends on the state and local RMP approval, so always check for the “EBT Restaurant Meals Program Accepted Here” sign or confirm online before visiting.
Local Restaurants and Diners That Take EBT
In addition to major fast-food chains, many local restaurants, diners, and family-owned cafes participate in the Restaurant Meals Program. These spots are great for enjoying affordable, home-style meals while supporting local businesses.
Depending on your state, you may find local diners, pizza shops, or barbecue places that accept SNAP EBT. For example:
- In California, many small Mexican and Chinese restaurants participate.
- In Illinois, local pizzerias and soul food spots are part of the program.
- In Arizona, smaller regional chains and local sandwich shops also accept EBT.
To locate local EBT-friendly restaurants, visit your state’s SNAP website or use the Providers App to find listings and directions.
>>> Learn more: 5 Steps To Get Free Phone Service With Food Stamps (SNAP)
Where You Can Use EBT at Restaurants by State
The Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) isn’t available everywhere, but several states now allow SNAP recipients to use their EBT cards at select restaurants. Below is a list of states where you can currently use EBT for prepared meals, along with examples of participating restaurants.
Restaurants That Accept EBT in California
California has one of the largest RMP networks in the U.S., offering hundreds of restaurants where eligible residents can use their EBT cards. Common participating chains include:
- Subway
- Taco Bell
- El Pollo Loco
- Denny’s
- Jack in the Box
- Wienerschnitzel
Many California counties, such as Los Angeles, Orange, and San Diego, also have local diners and smaller restaurants that participate in the program. Look for the “We Accept EBT” sign at the entrance before ordering.
Restaurants That Accept EBT in Arizona
Arizona is another state with a strong Restaurant Meals Program, allowing qualified individuals to buy hot meals from several fast-food chains and local eateries. Popular options include:
- Burger King
- Domino’s
- Carl’s Jr.
- Church’s Chicken
- Eegee’s
In addition to these major names, some local Mexican and sandwich shops in Arizona also participate in the RMP. You can check your county’s list of approved restaurants on the Arizona DES website.
Restaurants That Accept EBT in Illinois (Chicago)
Illinois has recently expanded its RMP program, particularly in Chicago and nearby areas. Residents who qualify can use their EBT cards at select fast-food locations such as:
- Popeyes
- Subway
- Burger King
- Church’s Chicken
Some small, family-owned restaurants and neighborhood diners in Chicago are also part of the RMP pilot program. Check the Illinois DHS website for updated restaurant lists in your ZIP code.
Restaurants That Accept EBT in Virginia and New Mexico
Both Virginia and New Mexico have launched Restaurant Meals Programs in select counties to make it easier for eligible residents to buy hot meals. While participation is still expanding, here are some common restaurant options:
- KFC
- Taco Bell
- Pizza Hut
- Burger King
- Denny’s (select locations)
Virginia and New Mexico continue to add new restaurants to their approved EBT list, so it’s best to visit your state’s SNAP or social services website for the most current information.
If you’re living in one of these states, your EBT card can help you enjoy affordable, ready-to-eat meals at a growing number of restaurants near you.
What Can You Buy with EBT at Restaurants
If your state participates in the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP), your EBT card can be used to buy hot, ready-to-eat meals from approved restaurants. However, not everything on the menu is covered.
Knowing which items qualify helps you make the most of your SNAP EBT benefits and avoid declined transactions.
Eligible Items
With your EBT card, you can pay for:
- Hot prepared meals served by participating restaurants.
- Individual food items like sandwiches, burgers, pizza slices, or breakfast plates.
- Combo meals that include an entrée, sides, and a drink (as long as all items are food).
- Take-out meals from RMP-approved restaurants.
These options make it easier for seniors, people with disabilities, or those without cooking access to get nutritious, affordable meals ready to eat.
>>> Learn more: Surprising Things You Can Buy with EBT at Walmart
Non-Eligible Items
Your SNAP EBT benefits cannot be used for:
- Non-food items such as utensils, napkins, or cleaning products.
- Alcoholic beverages or tobacco.
- Delivery fees, service fees, or tips.
- Gift cards, catering, or bulk restaurant orders.
If you try to purchase non-eligible items, the cashier or payment system will decline that part of the transaction. To avoid issues, always ask the restaurant which meals qualify for EBT payment before placing your order.
Get a Free Phone to Find EBT Restaurants Anytime
Having access to a reliable phone makes it much easier to manage your benefits and find EBT-friendly restaurants near you.
If you’re receiving SNAP or EBT benefits, you may qualify for the Lifeline program, a federal initiative that offers free or discounted smartphones and monthly service to low-income households.With AirTalk Wireless, eligible SNAP users can get a free smartphone and unlimited talk, text, and data, perfect for searching “restaurants that accept EBT near me” anytime, checking your EBT balance, or managing your benefits online.
Here’s how to apply in just a few steps:
- Go to AirTalk Wireless.
- Click “Apply Now.”
- Enter your ZIP code to check availability in your area.
- Upload proof of your SNAP or EBT participation.
Once approved, your free phone will be shipped to you within a few business days.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What restaurants accept EBT near me open now?
You can find EBT-friendly restaurants open now by searching on Google Maps for “restaurants that accept EBT near me” or by checking your state’s Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) list. Many fast-food chains such as Subway, Burger King, and Taco Bell have extended hours in participating states.
2. Can you use EBT at any fast food restaurant?
No, you can only use your EBT card at restaurants that are approved under the Restaurant Meals Program. Not all fast-food chains participate, and only certain states allow hot meal purchases with SNAP benefits.
3. What restaurants can I use my EBT card at in California?
In California, eligible EBT users can buy meals at Subway, Taco Bell, Denny’s, El Pollo Loco, Wienerschnitzel, and Jack in the Box. The program is available in many counties across the state.
4. Can you buy hot food with EBT in Virginia or New Mexico?
Yes. Both Virginia and New Mexico have launched Restaurant Meals Programs that allow SNAP users to buy prepared meals at approved restaurants such as KFC, Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, and Denny’s (in select areas).
5. What restaurants can I use my EBT card at in Chicago?
In Chicago, you can use your EBT card at several restaurants that participate in Illinois’ RMP, including Popeyes, Subway, Burger King, and Church’s Chicken.
Final Thoughts
When you know “what restaurants accept EBT near me”, it becomes easier to make the most of your SNAP benefits and enjoy ready-to-eat meals conveniently. Through the Lifeline program, AirTalk Wireless offers a free phone and monthly service plan that help you stay connected, find EBT-approved restaurants, and manage your benefits anytime without extra cost. Visit AirTalk Wireless today to get started.
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