Wondering “what restaurants accept EBT” and how you can use your benefits for prepared meals? Across several states, the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) makes it possible for eligible SNAP users to dine at approved fast-food and sit-down restaurants instead of buying only groceries. In this guide, we’ll explore how the program operates, who qualifies, and how to locate participating restaurants in your area.
Understanding How EBT Works at Restaurants
Many people don’t know that in some states, you can use your EBT card to buy hot, prepared meals at certain restaurants. This option is available through a special program designed to help those who may not have access to cooking facilities or are unable to prepare meals at home.
What Is the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP)?
The Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) is part of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). It allows eligible EBT users to buy prepared meals at participating restaurants using their food benefits. The goal is to make food assistance more accessible to seniors, people with disabilities, and those who are homeless.
Not every state or restaurant participates in this program. States like California, Arizona, Illinois, Maryland, Michigan, Rhode Island, and Virginia currently have active RMPs, while others are still considering participation.
Restaurants that join the program must meet government requirements and display a sign that says “We Accept EBT” or “EBT Restaurant Meals Program Accepted Here.”
Who Qualifies to Use EBT at Restaurants?
Only specific SNAP recipients can use their EBT cards at restaurants under the RMP. You may qualify if you meet one or more of the following:
- You are age 60 or older.
- You have a disability and receive disability benefits.
- You are homeless and lack a stable place to cook or store food.
- You are a spouse of someone who meets any of the conditions above.
If you qualify, your state’s SNAP office will mark your EBT card as “RMP eligible.” You can then use it to buy hot meals at approved restaurants just like you would use it at a grocery store.
This program gives eligible individuals more food choices, especially when cooking isn’t possible or practical.
>>> Learn more: What Is EBT Cash? What You Can Use It For
What Restaurants Accept EBT Cards Near Me
Finding restaurants that accept EBT near you is easier than you might think. With the Restaurant Meals Program expanding in several states, more fast-food chains and local restaurants are now part of the program.
How to find restaurants that take EBT?
There are a few simple ways to locate EBT-friendly restaurants in your area:
- Check your state’s SNAP website: Most states with an active Restaurant Meals Program list all approved restaurants online, often sorted by city or county.
- Use Google Maps: Type “restaurants that accept EBT near me” in the search bar. Restaurants that participate in RMP often include this information in their business details.
- Look for signs in restaurants: Participating locations display signs that read “We Accept EBT” or “EBT Restaurant Meals Program Accepted Here.”
- Ask your local SNAP office: They can confirm whether your area supports the program and share a list of approved restaurants nearby.
If your state is not yet part of the RMP, you can still use your SNAP EBT card at grocery stores, superstores, or delivery services to buy cold, ready-to-eat foods.
What Restaurants Accept EBT Cards?
While restaurant options vary by state, several well-known fast-food and casual dining chains accept EBT cards in areas where the Restaurant Meals Program is active. Some of the most common include:
- Subway
- Domino’s Pizza
- Papa Murphy’s
- KFC
- Taco Bell
- McDonald’s (select locations)
- Burger King
- Jack in the Box
- El Pollo Loco
- Denny’s
- Pizza Hut
In addition to these major chains, many local diners and family-owned restaurants also participate in the program. To be sure, always check the restaurant window or menu for the official EBT sign before ordering.
Using your EBT card at restaurants gives eligible individuals more flexibility to enjoy warm, prepared meals, especially when cooking at home isn’t an option.
How do you use your EBT card at restaurants?
(Image by Freepik)
Using your EBT card at restaurants is just as simple as using it at a grocery store. Once your state approves you for the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP), your EBT card will automatically work at participating restaurants. Here’s how to use it step-by-step:
- Find a participating restaurant: Look for the “We Accept EBT” or “EBT Restaurant Meals Program Accepted Here” sign on the restaurant’s door or menu board. You can also confirm online through your state’s SNAP website.
- Order your meal: Choose the food you’d like to buy, making sure it’s an eligible meal under the RMP.
- Swipe your EBT card: At checkout, swipe or insert your card just like a debit card.
- Enter your PIN: Type in your four-digit personal identification number to complete the transaction.
- Keep your receipt: It shows your remaining balance and helps you track your spending.
You can only use your EBT card at approved restaurants in states that participate in the program, such as California, Arizona, Illinois, Maryland, Michigan, Rhode Island, and Virginia. If your state isn’t part of the RMP yet, your card will not work at fast food or dine-in restaurants.
What Restaurants Can I Use My EBT Card At in Specific States
The Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) is not available nationwide, but several states have approved it and allow SNAP users to buy hot, prepared meals at participating restaurants. Below are examples of where and how you can use your EBT card in specific states.
- California: One of the first and largest states to join the RMP. Participating restaurants include Subway, Jack in the Box, El Pollo Loco, Pizza Hut, Domino’s, Denny’s, and Burger King, among others.
- Arizona: Offers EBT acceptance at chains like Domino’s, Subway, and Ch Church’s Chicken, as well as many local Mexican restaurants.
- Illinois: The program is available in select counties, with options such as Denny’s, Pizza Hut, and Subway.
- Maryland: Allows EBT use at a growing list of local restaurants and chains including Dunkin’, Papa John’s, and Subway.
- Michigan: EBT users can dine at Church’s Chicken, Subway, McDonald’s (select locations), and various local diners.
- Rhode Island: One of the earliest participants, with restaurants like Subway and Domino’s taking part.
- Virginia: The program is expanding across counties and includes fast-food restaurants such as KFC, Taco Bell, and Pizza Hut.
- New Mexico: Some counties now allow EBT use at Burger King, Denny’s, and local family-owned restaurants through the RMP pilot program.
- Chicago, Illinois: EBT-eligible restaurants in Chicago include Denny’s, Subway, and other approved RMP locations.
Participation varies by county and restaurant, so always look for the EBT Restaurant Meals Program sign or confirm through your state’s SNAP website.
>>> Learn more: Get EBT Discounts: Savings & Perks You May Not Have Known
Did You Know You Can Get More Than Food with EBT?
Your EBT or SNAP benefits can do more than just help you buy groceries. If you’re enrolled in SNAP, you also qualify for the Lifeline program, a federal initiative that provides free or discounted phones and monthly service to help low-income individuals stay connected.Through this program, AirTalk Wireless offers eligible SNAP recipients a free smartphone along with unlimited talk, text, and data.
With a reliable phone, you can easily check your EBT balance, manage your benefits online, and contact local support services without worrying about extra costs.
Applying is quick and simple:
- Visit the AirTalk Wireless website.
- Click “Apply Now.”
- Enter your ZIP code to confirm service availability.
- Upload proof of your SNAP or EBT eligibility.
Once approved, your free device will be shipped to you within a few business days. Having an AirTalk phone means you can manage your SNAP EBT benefits more efficiently and stay connected with family, job opportunities, and community resources with all at no cost to you.
FAQ
1. Which fast food restaurants take EBT?
Fast food restaurants that accept EBT cards vary by state. In places that participate in the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) such as California, Arizona, Illinois, Michigan, Maryland, Virginia, and Rhode Island, chains like Subway, Domino’s, Pizza Hut, KFC, Burger King, and Taco Bell often accept EBT. Always look for the sign that says “We Accept EBT” before ordering.
2. What restaurants can I use my EBT card at in Chicago?
In Chicago, the Restaurant Meals Program allows eligible EBT users to buy prepared meals at select restaurants. Popular options include Subway, Denny’s, and Pizza Hut. The list of approved restaurants may change, so it’s best to check the Illinois SNAP website or call your local office for the latest updates.
3. Can you use EBT at fast food in New Mexico?
Yes, in certain counties of New Mexico, SNAP recipients who qualify for the Restaurant Meals Program can use their EBT cards at approved fast food restaurants. These may include Burger King, Denny’s, and local diners that participate in the program. Check with your county’s SNAP office to confirm participating locations.
Final thoughts
Understanding “what restaurants accept EBT” can help you make the most of your SNAP benefits, especially if you qualify for the Restaurant Meals Program. While not every state allows restaurant purchases yet, the program continues to grow, giving more people access to affordable, hot meals. If you’re receiving SNAP or EBT benefits, staying connected helps you manage your account and find nearby EBT-friendly restaurants more easily. Visit AirTalk Wireless today to apply for a free phone and monthly service plan through the Lifeline program, a perfect way to keep track of your benefits anytime, anywhere.