We may earn a commission for purchases through links on our site at no cost to you, Learn more.
While fast food might seem like a budget-friendly option, it’s important to consider current food costs.
EBT cards, used to access SNAP benefits, are generally not accepted at fast food restaurants for prepared meals. This is because SNAP aims to support groceries for cooking at home. However, a specific program called the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) is available in some states. RMP allows qualified individuals, typically elderly, disabled, or homeless SNAP recipients, to use their benefits at authorized restaurants.
Before heading to a fast-food restaurant with your EBT card, it’s crucial to confirm their participation in RMP. Call the restaurant directly or check online for verification. Additionally, inquire about the specific food items you can purchase using your EBT card, as some restaurants may have limitations within the program.
SNAP Benefits
While the rising cost of food strains many American households, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) offers support. This largest federal program provides electronic benefits transfers (EBT cards) to qualified low-income individuals and families. These cards allow recipients to purchase eligible food items at authorized retail stores.
However, using SNAP benefits for on-the-go meals can be trickier. Although some fast-food restaurants accept EBT cards, they are not universally available. Understanding SNAP’s program limitations and state-by-state variations is key to using your EBT card effectively.
15 Fast food places that will take EBT
Contrary to popular belief, SNAP benefits extend beyond grocery stores. Authorized retailers like Dollar General, 7-Eleven, and even select Walgreens stores accept EBT cards.
However, using SNAP benefits at fast-food restaurants is more nuanced. Not all locations within a chain participate in this program, and regulations can differ by state. It’s vital to check with the specific restaurant beforehand to confirm EBT acceptance and what food items qualify for purchase with your card. While the following fast-food chains may participate in some areas, always verify before your visit.
1. Burger King
Burger King, the second-largest hamburger chain in the United States, is a retailer with limited EBT acceptance. While boasting an extensive network of over 18,700 locations worldwide, only Burger Kings in Arizona and California participate in the program. Furthermore, participation is restricted to specific counties within these states.
It’s important to remember that SNAP benefits subsidize groceries for at-home meals. While some Burger King locations accept EBT cards, confirming participation in your area before heading out for a quick bite is crucial. You can do this by contacting the restaurant directly or searching online for verification.
2. Carl’s Jr.
Carl’s Jr., a fast-food restaurant chain established in 1941, operates in over 1,000 locations across the U.S. While not all locations nationwide accept EBT cards, you can currently use your EBT benefits at Carl’s Jr. restaurants in Arizona and California.
If you live in one of these states, check with your local Carl’s Jr. to see if they accept EBT payments before you visit.
3. McDonald’s
While McDonald’s, founded in 1955, is a global leader in fast food, EBT card acceptance is limited to specific states. Currently, only Arizona, California, and Michigan allow EBT purchases at McDonald’s locations.
Participation can vary by individual restaurant, so it’s recommended to contact your local McDonald’s beforehand to confirm EBT acceptance before your visit.
4. Domino’s
While Domino’s boasts a large international presence with over 14,400 stores in more than 85 countries, EBT card acceptance is limited to two states. Only Arizona and California allow you to use your EBT benefits to purchase pizzas at Domino’s locations.
It’s also important to remember that EBT participation can vary by location, so be sure to contact your local Domino’s branch to confirm they accept EBT before placing your order.
5. KFC
KFC, the iconic fried chicken chain founded by Colonel Harland Sanders, accepts EBT cards in some areas. However, a key detail to consider is that participation hinges on the Restaurant Meals Program, a federal initiative unavailable in every state.
Currently, Arizona and California allow EBT purchases at KFC statewide. Other states, including Illinois, Maryland, Michigan, Rhode Island, and Virginia, only offer the Restaurant Meals Program in select cities or counties.
Before heading to KFC with your EBT card, it’s crucial to check eligibility in your specific location. You can find information online or by contacting your local KFC branch directly.
6. Little Caesars
Little Caesars, founded by Mike and Marian Ilitch in Garden City, Michigan, boasts over 4,000 locations nationwide. Unfortunately, EBT acceptance for food purchases at Little Caesars is extremely limited.
Only a handful of Little Caesars locations in San Diego County, California, accept EBT cards. It’s important to manage expectations, as the vast majority of Little Caesars locations do not participate in the EBT program. If you’re unsure about EBT acceptance at your local Little Caesars, it’s recommended that you contact the store directly before your visit.
7. Subway
Subway, known for its wide variety of foot-long sandwiches and build-your-own options, operates over 37,000 restaurants worldwide. However, EBT card acceptance for food purchases is limited to specific states. Only Arizona, California, and Rhode Island allow you to use your EBT benefits at Subway locations.
It’s important to note that participation can vary by individual restaurant. To ensure a smooth transaction, it’s recommended that you contact your local Subway beforehand to confirm EBT acceptance.
8. Popeye’s
Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, a popular fried chicken restaurant founded in Louisiana, accepts EBT cards for purchases, but cardholders must consider some limitations.
EBT cards at Popeyes are not nationally accepted. Currently, only Arizona and California allow EBT purchases at any Popeyes location within the state.
For Illinois, Maryland, Michigan, Rhode Island, and Virginia residents, EBT card use at Popeyes is restricted to specific cities or counties. Unfortunately, there is no central database to pinpoint these participating areas.
To ensure a successful transaction using your EBT card at Popeyes, it is recommended that you contact your local Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen directly before your visit. This will confirm EBT acceptance and save you time and hassle.
9. Taco Bell
Taco Bell, the fast-food giant known for its Mexican-inspired fare, accepts EBT cards at some locations, but acceptance is limited. While Taco Bell boasts over 7,000 restaurants nationwide, only select stores in Arizona and California allow you to use your EBT benefits to purchase tacos, burritos, and other menu items.
It’s important to manage expectations, as most Taco Bell locations do not participate in the EBT program. To avoid disappointment, it’s best to contact your local Taco Bell beforehand to confirm EBT acceptance. This will ensure a smooth transaction and let you enjoy your favorite Taco Bell treats.
10. Wendy’s
While Wendy’s, a popular fast-food chain with over 6,500 locations globally, accepts EBT cards, their participation is limited. Only a handful of counties in California allow EBT purchases at Wendy’s restaurants.
Unfortunately, there isn’t a nationwide list of participating counties. To avoid an unsuccessful trip, it is crucial to contact your local Wendy’s directly before your visit. This will confirm EBT acceptance in your area and ensure a smooth transaction.
11. El Pollo Loco
EBT cardholders looking for fire-grilled chicken can rejoice! El Pollo Loco accepts EBT cards at many locations, but with some key details to remember.
El Pollo Loco, known for its flame-grilled chicken dishes, operates nearly 500 restaurants across the U.S. However, EBT acceptance is limited to specific states. Currently, only California and Arizona allow you to use your SNAP benefits to purchase meals at El Pollo Loco.
It’s important to note that participation might also vary by individual store location within these states. To ensure a smooth transaction, it’s recommended that you contact your local El Pollo Loco before your visit. This will confirm EBT acceptance at that specific location.
12. Papa John’s
Papa John’s allows EBT card purchases for pizzas, wings, and other menu items, but only at locations within states participating in the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP). These states include Arizona, California, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, and Rhode Island.
It’s important to remember that EBT participation can vary by location within these states. To avoid disappointment and ensure a smooth transaction, it’s strongly recommended that you contact your local Papa John’s before placing an order. This will confirm whether your specific store accepts EBT cards.
13. Dairy Queen
Attention EBT cardholders with a hankering for ice cream or a quick meal! Dairy Queen can satisfy your cravings, but with some limitations to consider.
While Dairy Queen does participate in the EBT program, allowing you to use your benefits to purchase select food items, acceptance is not nationwide. Only Arizona, Maryland, Rhode Island, Illinois, California, and Michigan allow EBT purchases at participating Dairy Queen locations.
Furthermore, participation can vary by individual store. It’s crucial to manage expectations and confirm EBT acceptance before your visit. Contacting your local Dairy Queen directly will ensure a smooth transaction and let you enjoy your favorite treats without any surprises.
14. Jack In the Box
EBT cardholders looking for a quick and varied meal can visit Jack in the Box, but they should be aware of EBT acceptance limitations.
Jack in the Box offers a menu featuring burgers, chicken sandwiches, and even tacos, but EBT acceptance hinges on the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP). Only Arizona and California allow EBT purchases at participating Jack in the Box locations.
Since EBT participation can vary by individual restaurant within these states, it is recommended that you contact your local Jack in the Box beforehand. This will confirm EBT acceptance and ensure a smooth transaction.
15. Del Taco
Attention EBT cardholders with a taste for Mexican food! Del Taco can be a budget-friendly option, but it has some limitations.
While a limited number of Del Taco locations accept EBT cards for purchases like tacos and burritos, participation is not guaranteed. Roughly 103 locations accept EBT, but it depends on whether the specific franchise location can process this form of payment. Unfortunately, there’s no central way to identify participating locations beforehand.
To avoid disappointment, it is strongly recommended that you contact your local Del Taco directly. This will confirm EBT acceptance at that store and ensure a smooth transaction.
How do I apply for SNAP?
The application process for SNAP benefits can be completed conveniently online or in person at your local SNAP office. Remember that eligibility requirements vary by location, so be sure to check the specifics for your area.
Once enrolled in SNAP, it’s crucial to understand what benefits can be used in your state. State guidelines dictate what constitutes an allowable purchase with SNAP benefits. Always check your state’s guidelines before heading to the grocery store or a participating restaurant to avoid any confusion or wasted trips.
This will ensure you use your SNAP benefits correctly and get the most out of your program participation.
Can you buy hot food with an EBT card in California?
California is a leader in EBT program flexibility. Unlike most states, California allows you to use your EBT card to purchase hot-prepared meals at authorized restaurants, including many popular fast food chains. This makes California the most permissive state on this list regarding hot food purchases with EBT.
While California allows hot food purchases at restaurants, EBT cannot be used to buy hot food from supermarkets or grocery stores. These stores typically only accept EBT for cold or shelf-stable food items.
Where else is EBT accepted in California?
EBT cards are widely accepted across California, offering flexibility in purchasing food. Here’s a breakdown of where you can use your card:
The list includes major chains like Aldi, Safeway, Stater Bros., Target, Walmart, and Whole Foods, as well as regional stores like Food 4 Less, Lucky Supermarkets, and Sprouts Farmers Market. Even online grocery shopping is an option! Amazon allows EBT card use for food purchases in California.
The best way to ensure a store accepts EBT cards is to utilize the official EBT locations map finder [CA EBT Locator – EBT.ca.gov]. This user-friendly tool allows you to search for authorized retailers by zip code or address, ensuring a smooth and successful grocery shopping experience.
Can you buy hot food with an EBT card in Florida?
In Florida, unlike other states, you cannot use your EBT card to purchase hot, prepared meals from supermarkets, restaurants, or other vendors. EBT benefits in Florida are restricted to cold or shelf-stable food items.
If you’re unsure whether a specific food item is allowable with your EBT card, it’s recommended that you consult your local Department of Children and Families (DCF) office or review the official Florida SNAP guidelines.
What can I not buy with my EBT card in California?
Here’s a breakdown of what you cannot purchase with your EBT card in California, besides hot food:
- Non-food items: This includes household goods like soap, toothpaste, toilet paper, and cleaning supplies. Remember, EBT cards are intended to purchase food for consumption.
- Alcohol and tobacco: Cigarettes, cigars, alcoholic beverages, and any tobacco products are not eligible purchases with your EBT card.
- Pet Food: While caring for a furry friend is important, EBT benefits cannot be used to buy pet food.
- Vitamins and medications: Unfortunately, vitamins, medicines, and dietary supplements are not covered by EBT benefits.
- Extras and fees: Gift baskets with a non-food item value exceeding half the purchase price, prepared food intended for immediate consumption on-site, firearms, ammunition, explosives, live animals, and any fees associated with delivery or grocery bags cannot be paid for with your EBT card.
If you’re unsure whether a specific item is allowable, it’s best to check with the cashier at the time of purchase. They can quickly verify if the item qualifies for EBT purchase.
Which counties can I buy restaurant food with an EBT card in California?
If you’re aged 60 or over, disabled, or homeless, you might qualify to enjoy hot, prepared meals at participating restaurants through the California Restaurant Meals Program (RMP).
The RMP allows eligible CalFresh (California’s SNAP program) recipients to use their benefits to purchase meals from restaurants enrolled in the program. This is a great option for those who may not be able to cook for themselves due to age, disability, or lack of cooking facilities.
The good news is that the RMP operates in many California counties. Here’s a list to see if your area is included:
- Alameda County
- Fresno County
- Los Angeles County
- Mariposa County
- Monterey County
- Orange County
- Riverside County
- Sacramento County
- San Diego County
- San Francisco County
- San Luis Obispo County
- Santa Clara County
- Santa Cruz County
- Siskiyou County
- Tehama County
While the above counties participate in the RMP, enrollment isn’t mandatory for every restaurant within those areas. To find restaurants accepting EBT cards for prepared meals, look for the “Restaurant Meals Program” sign displayed in the window or contact your local county human services agency for a list of participating restaurants.
The bottom line
While some fast-food chains accept EBT cards for purchases, it’s crucial to understand that this option is not available nationwide. Only a handful of states currently allow EBT use at fast-food restaurants.
California and Arizona are the leaders, permitting EBT purchases at many popular fast-food chains throughout the state.
Illinois, Maryland, Michigan, Rhode Island, and Virginia offer a more restricted option. Here, EBT use at fast food is limited to specific cities or counties within these states. There’s unfortunately no central database to pinpoint these participating areas.
Before heading out for a fast-food meal, it is essential to confirm EBT acceptance at your desired restaurant. Contact the specific restaurant you plan to visit directly. This is the most reliable way to ensure they accept EBT cards and avoid an unsuccessful trip.
For qualifying individuals and families who rely on SNAP benefits, EBT acceptance at fast food restaurants provides greater accessibility and convenience. This allows you to enjoy a quick meal while staying within your dietary and budgetary needs.