What Fast Food Restaurants Take EBT Near Me: Find Locations That Accept SNAP Benefits
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Many SNAP users are asking “what fast food restaurants take EBT near me”, the answer depends on your state. Through the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP), eligible SNAP users can buy hot meals at select fast-food chains and local restaurants. This helps seniors, people with disabilities, and those without cooking facilities enjoy fresh, ready-to-eat food.
In this guide, you’ll discover which fast food places and donut shops accept EBT, how to find ones open now, and even which gas stations near you take EBT cards.
What Is the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP)?
The Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) is a special part of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) that allows eligible participants to buy hot, prepared meals from approved fast food restaurants using their EBT card. The program is designed for people who may not have access to a kitchen or the ability to cook at home.
Under the RMP, restaurants that meet state and federal guidelines can accept EBT payments just like grocery stores. You’ll often see signs that say “We Accept EBT” or “EBT Restaurant Meals Program Accepted Here” at participating locations.
Where Is the RMP Available?
The RMP is not available in every state, but it continues to grow each year. Currently, the program operates in the following states:
- California
- Arizona
- Illinois (including Chicago)
- Maryland
- Michigan
- Rhode Island
- Virginia
- New Mexico
Each state decides which restaurants can participate, so availability may vary by city or county.
Who Qualifies to Use EBT at Fast Food Restaurants
Not everyone with a SNAP EBT card can buy meals at fast food restaurants. The Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) is designed to support people who cannot cook at home or don’t have access to a kitchen.
You may qualify if you belong to one of these groups:
If you’re 60 years or older, you can use your EBT card to buy hot meals from approved restaurants. The program also covers people with disabilities who receive disability benefits, as well as those who are homeless and have no place to cook or store food safely. In some cases, the spouse of an eligible person can also use the benefits.
Once approved, your EBT card will be marked as RMP eligible, which means you can pay for prepared meals at authorized fast food restaurants in your state.
What fast food restaurants take ebt near me open now
Fast Food Restaurants That Accept EBT Benefits
If you’re searching “what fast food restaurants that take EBT near me open now”, many popular chains across the U.S. participate in the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP). These restaurants let qualified SNAP users buy hot food, using their EBT cards, a convenient option when grocery shopping or cooking isn’t possible.
Fast Food Restaurants That Accept EBT Benefits
According to data from the Restaurant Meals Program and verified sources like Host Merchant Services, here are some fast food restaurants that accept EBT in participating states:
- Burger King – Accepts EBT in select locations, including California, Arizona, and Maryland.
- Subway – Offers sandwiches, salads, and combo meals at many RMP-approved stores.
- Taco Bell – Participates in RMP in several states, allowing purchases of burritos, tacos, and bowls.
- KFC – Serves hot chicken meals at approved locations under the RMP.
- Domino’s Pizza – Accepts EBT for in-store orders in several RMP states.
- Pizza Hut – Participates in RMP programs, especially in California and Arizona.
- Denny’s – Offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner options in RMP-approved areas.
- El Pollo Loco – Available in multiple California counties for EBT users.
- Carl’s Jr. – Accepts EBT at specific restaurants in Arizona and California.
- Popeyes – Approved in some RMP regions such as Illinois and Arizona.
- Jack in the Box – Available in many California RMP counties.
- Wienerschnitzel – Accepts EBT in select California cities.
Most of these fast food restaurants are open late or 24 hours, making them convenient options for EBT cardholders looking for a quick meal anytime. To find one near you, search “fast food restaurants that accept EBT near me” on Google Maps and filter by “Open now.”
>>> Learn more: Food Stamps, SNAP vs EBT: What’s The Difference?
Which Fast Food Restaurants Do Not Accept EBT
While the list of RMP-approved restaurants keeps expanding, not all fast food chains accept EBT. The following brands generally do not take EBT cards:
- McDonald’s (except limited pilot locations)
- Wendy’s
- Chick-fil-A
- Five Guys
- Arby’s
- Chipotle
- Panera Bread
- Sonic Drive-In
- Culver’s
These restaurants may still accept EBT for cold packaged items if they sell groceries or participate in other SNAP-related programs, but they cannot process EBT payments for hot meals unless approved under the RMP.
Can You Use EBT at Any Fast Food Restaurant?
Many people think they can use their EBT card at any fast food place, but that’s not the case. The ability to use EBT for hot, prepared food depends entirely on your state’s participation in the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) and whether a restaurant is officially approved to accept SNAP benefits.
No, Only in States That Participate in RMP
You can only use EBT cards at fast food restaurants if your state runs the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP). Currently, only a few states such as California, Arizona, Illinois, Maryland, Michigan, Rhode Island, Virginia, and New Mexico, have active RMP programs.
Even in these states, not every restaurant location qualifies. Each restaurant must apply and receive approval to participate. That’s why you might find some Burger King or Subway locations that accept EBT, while others nearby do not.
If your state doesn’t have the RMP, your EBT card can only be used at grocery stores, farmers’ markets, or food delivery services that sell cold, unprepared food.
Why EBT Isn’t Accepted Everywhere
The EBT program was originally created to help people buy groceries, not restaurant meals. Since the main purpose of SNAP is to promote home cooking and nutrition, most restaurants are not authorized to accept EBT payments.
The Restaurant Meals Program exists to support people who can’t cook for themselves such as seniors, people with disabilities, or those experiencing homelessness. Because of this, the program is limited to certain states and counties.
If you’re unsure whether your area supports the RMP, you can check your state’s SNAP or social services website for an updated list of approved restaurants that accept EBT.
>>> Learn more: The Most Surprising Things You Can Buy With EBT Card (Or Cannot)
What Can You Buy with EBT at Fast Food Restaurants
When using your EBT card at fast food restaurants, it’s helpful to know which items you’re allowed to buy. The Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) limits EBT purchases to certain food items that qualify under SNAP rules. This ensures that benefits are used for essential meals, not extras or non-food items.
Eligible Purchases
You can use your EBT card to pay for:
- Hot, prepared meals served at participating RMP-approved fast food restaurants.
- Individual food items such as sandwiches, tacos, pizza slices, or breakfast plates.
- Meal combos that include main dishes, sides, and drinks (as long as all items are food).
- Take-out meals ordered directly from approved restaurants.
These items are meant to help people who can’t cook at home such as seniors, people with disabilities, or those without kitchen access, enjoy warm and balanced meals.
Non-Eligible Purchases
Your SNAP EBT benefits cannot be used for:
- Non-food items like utensils, napkins, or packaging.
- Alcoholic drinks or tobacco.
- Delivery fees, service charges, or tips.
- Gift cards, catering, or bulk food orders.
Restaurants That Accept EBT in Chicago
If you live in Chicago, you can use your EBT card at select restaurants through Illinois’ Restaurant Meals Program (RMP). The program allows eligible SNAP participants including seniors, people with disabilities, and those experiencing homelessness to buy hot meals at approved restaurants.
Here are some of the restaurants that accept EBT in Chicago:
- Popeyes – Offers fried chicken, sandwiches, and combo meals at RMP-approved locations.
- Subway – Participates in the program at several branches in Chicago.
- Burger King – Accepts EBT in some city locations under Illinois’ RMP.
- Church’s Chicken – Available for qualified EBT users in select neighborhoods.
- Denny’s – Serves breakfast and dinner options at approved sites.
The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) continues to add more restaurants to the list. To find the latest locations, visit the Illinois SNAP website or use Google Maps and search “restaurants that accept EBT food stamps near me, Chicago.”
What Gas Stations Accept EBT Near Me
You can also use your EBT card at many gas station convenience stores that sell eligible food items. While you can’t pay for fuel with EBT, you can buy cold foods and groceries at participating locations.
Common gas stations that accept EBT include:
- 7-Eleven
- Shell
- ExxonMobil
- Chevron
- Circle K
- Speedway
- BP
At these gas stations, you can use your EBT card to purchase:
- Snacks like chips, fruit, or yogurt
- Bread, milk, and bottled drinks
- Packaged sandwiches or cold foods ready to eat
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a free phone with EBT?
Yes. If you receive SNAP or EBT benefits, you automatically qualify for the Lifeline program, which offers free or discounted phones and monthly service plans. You can apply through AirTalk Wireless to receive a free smartphone and unlimited talk, text, and data. This makes it easier to manage your benefits, find nearby EBT-friendly restaurants, and stay connected anytime.
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 (RMP) in states like California, Arizona, Illinois, Maryland, and a few others. These programs are meant for seniors, people with disabilities, and those who are homeless.
What fast food restaurants take EBT near me open now?
Restaurants such as Burger King, Taco Bell, Subway, KFC, and Domino’s accept EBT at certain locations. To find ones open now, search “fast food restaurants that accept EBT near me” on Google Maps and check the “Open now” filter.
What gas stations accept EBT near me?
Gas stations like 7-Eleven, Shell, Chevron, BP, and Circle K often accept EBT for groceries or cold food items inside their convenience stores. However, you cannot use EBT to pay for gasoline.
Are donut shops that accept EBT near me?
Yes. In states that participate in the Restaurant Meals Program, some donut shops such as Krispy Kreme, Dunkin’, and local bakeries accept EBT cards for approved food items. Availability depends on your location, so check your state’s SNAP directory or look for signs that say “We Accept EBT.”
Final Thoughts
By searching the main keyword “what fast food restaurants take EBT near me”, you can enjoy more flexibility and access to hot meals when you need them most. To manage your benefits more conveniently, stay connected with a free phone from AirTalk Wireless. It’s available to SNAP and EBT participants through the Lifeline program, helping you track your balance, find EBT restaurants nearby, and stay connected with no extra cost.
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