Discover What Restaurants Accept EBT Near Me: Your Ultimate Guide

Are you about to Google “what restaurants accept food near me?” If so, our guide cuts through the confusion, giving you clear-cut information on EBT-friendly dining locations nearby and how to take advantage of this benefit.
 

Participating Restaurants That Accept EBT Payments

When you're out and about and hunger strikes, it’s good to know where you can turn to satisfy your cravings without straying from your budget. Below is a list of restaurants that accept EBT payments as part of the Restaurant Meals Program, allowing those with SNAP benefits to enjoy a variety of prepared meals.

Burger King

Burger King serves flame-grilled burgers like the famous Whopper, chicken sandwiches, breakfast items, sides such as fries and onion rings, desserts, and a kids' menu.

Wendy's

Wendy's menu features square hamburgers, chicken sandwiches, salads, fries, chili, baked potatoes, breakfast items, and the iconic Frosty dessert.

KFC

KFC's menu features their signature original recipe and extra crispy fried chicken, alongside sandwiches, popcorn chicken, and tenders. Classic sides include mashed potatoes, coleslaw, and biscuits, with cookies and cakes for dessert.

Carl’s Jr.

Enjoy charbroiled burgers, chicken tenders, breakfast items, and shakes.

McDonald’s

A fast food staple, McDonald's menu includes iconic Big Macs, cheeseburgers, Chicken McNuggets, and breakfast items like Egg McMuffins. They also offer salads, beverages, shakes, and desserts like the McFlurry.

Subway

Subway offers a variety of "Subs," salads, and wraps. Customers can choose from different bread types, proteins like turkey, roast beef, or the Italian B.M.T.®, and an assortment of fresh vegetables. Plus, right now, you can take advantage of the Subway BOGO deal and get a free footlong with the purchase of another footlong.

Jack in the Box

Jack in the Box is known for its wide variety of offerings, including seasoned curly fries, juicy burgers, and an assortment of tacos. They also serve breakfast round the clock with options like stuffed jalapeños, egg rolls, and their infamous Sourdough Jack®.

Papa Murphy’s

Papa Murphy's is a take-and-bake pizza company, offering a unique concept where you pick custom-made pizzas that are prepared fresh but not baked. You then take these pizzas home to bake in your own oven for a hot, delicious meal whenever you're ready.

Denny’s

Denny's, known for its classic American diner and breakfast fare, offers a wide range of menu items suitable for any meal of the day.

El Pollo Loco

El Pollo Loco is renowned for its citrus-marinated, fire-grilled chicken, which can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Additionally, they serve salads, tacos, and quesadillas, all featuring their signature chicken. Sides such as rice, beans, and corn are also available to complement any meal.

Taco Bell

Taco Bell offers a variety of Mexican-inspired foods, including tacos, burritos, quesadillas, nachos, and other specialty items.

Arby's

Arby's is best known for its slow-roasted beef sandwiches, particularly the classic Beef 'n Cheddar, featuring a savory combination of roast beef and cheddar cheese sauce on a toasted onion roll. Some select Arby's locations allow customers to purchase meals with their EBT benefits.

Local Eateries

Many local restaurants, often family-owned ones, also participate in the Restaurant Meals Program. To find these local participating restaurants, you can check state RMP listings or keep an eye out for EBT-accepted here signs in restaurant windows.

Non-Participating Restaurant Chains

Even in regions where Restaurant Meal Programs (RMPs) are operational, not all restaurant chains will take EBT payments. As an example, corporate-owned Starbucks shops do not allow the use of SNAP benefits. There may be exceptions at locations situated within grocery stores.

It’s important to grasp these nuances to avoid any misunderstandings or letdowns when opting to eat out at restaurants that accept SNAP benefits.

Gas Stations and Convenience Stores Accepting EBT Payments

While EBT is commonly associated with grocery stores and the Restaurant Meals Program, many gas station convenience stores also accept EBT payments for eligible items. This can be particularly convenient for travelers or those in need of quick access to food and supplies.

Here is a list of popular gas stations and convenience stores where you can use your EBT card:

• 7-Eleven
• Circle K
• Speedway
• Shell
• Chevron
• BP
• ExxonMobil
• Casey's General Stores
• Wawa
• QuikTrip

Food Delivery Programs That Accept EBT Payments

For those looking to use their EBT benefits for home delivery, several food delivery apps and programs also accommodate SNAP recipients:

• Instacart: This service partners with select grocery stores to allow EBT payments for eligible food items. Delivery and service fees cannot be paid with EBT and must be covered by another form of payment.
• Amazon: Amazon offers an online EBT payment option for SNAP-eligible items with free delivery on orders over a certain amount.
• Walmart Grocery Delivery: In select locations, Walmart accepts EBT for online grocery orders. As with other services, delivery fees must be paid separately.
• FreshDirect: This online grocer provides EBT payment options for SNAP beneficiaries in certain parts of New York.
• ShopRite: ShopRite's online ordering and home delivery service accept EBT for grocery purchases in select areas.
• Uber Eats: Through Uber Eats, you can shop for groceries from your local grocery stores using food stamps.

Just note: while these services can help make grocery shopping more accessible, not all locations or items may be eligible for EBT payment. Always check with the service provider for the most current information regarding EBT acceptance and program details.

Understanding the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP)

The Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) is a federally authorized extension of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), designed to accommodate individuals who may not have the means to prepare meals at home. This program is a lifeline for those who face challenges with food access due to disability, homelessness, or old age.

Who Does the RMP Serve?

The RMP specifically serves:

• Elderly individuals who may find it difficult to cook due to physical limitations or lack of facilities.
• Disabled persons who may be unable to prepare their own meals or shop for groceries.
• Homeless individuals who do not have access to a kitchen or cooking amenities.

By allowing these vulnerable groups to purchase hot, prepared meals at participating restaurants, the RMP ensures they have access to nutritious food options that they might otherwise go without.

Benefits of the RMP

For eligible SNAP recipients, the RMP offers numerous benefits:

• It provides access to hot meals, which can be particularly beneficial for those without a place to store or cook food.
• It expands dietary options for those who are unable to prepare meals, ensuring they can have balanced, nutritious food choices.
• It supports participating local restaurants, which can be especially important for small businesses within the community.

How to Locate EBT-Accepting Restaurants Near You

To find the most up-to-date list of restaurants that accept EBT payments, you can:

• Visit your state’s SNAP website for a list of RMP-participating restaurants.
• Use the SNAP Retailer Locator tool online.
• Look for restaurants with EBT signage displayed prominently.

Remember, the availability of this program and participating restaurants can vary by state and even by county, so it’s always a good idea to verify with a particular location.

States with Active Restaurant Meals Programs

The Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) is not available in all states. However, there are select states that have chosen to participate in the program. These states recognize the importance of providing hot, prepared meals to those who might not have the means to cook for themselves.

Here is where the RMP is active:

• Arizona: Arizona's RMP caters to a diverse food scene, offering numerous options for EBT recipients.
• California: California boasts one of the most comprehensive RMPs, with a wide array of restaurants catering to SNAP recipients.
• Maryland: Maryland offers RMP benefits in select areas, providing additional dining options for eligible individuals.
• Michigan: In Michigan, certain areas participate in the RMP, allowing for a variety of meal choices for those in need.
• Rhode Island: Rhode Island's RMP extends the possibility of enjoying prepared meals to SNAP beneficiaries within the state.

Please note that the availability of the RMP can vary within these states, and it is always best to check with local agencies for the most current information.

What You Can't Buy: Limitations of EBT at Restaurants

Understanding the limitations of EBT benefits is as important as knowing which establishments accept them. The Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) expands the range of food items that can be bought using SNAP benefits, such as prepared meals, yet there are still constraints to ensure the program stays true to its objective of offering healthy food choices for beneficiaries in need.

Here's what you can't buy:

• Alcoholic Beverages: EBT funds cannot be used to purchase alcoholic drinks of any kind.
• Tobacco Products: Any form of tobacco, including cigarettes and cigars, is not eligible for purchase with EBT.
• Non-Food Items: EBT cannot be used for non-food items such as cleaning supplies, paper products, and personal hygiene items.
• Hot Foods or Prepared Meals (with exceptions): Generally, EBT cannot be used for hot foods or prepared meals, although the RMP is an exception that allows for this in certain cases.
• Pet Foods: Pets may be family, but their food cannot be purchased with EBT funds.
• Medicines and Vitamins: Over-the-counter drugs and vitamins.

Maximizing Your Meal Benefits

To maximize the utility of SNAP food benefits while dining at restaurants, careful consideration and a commitment to nutritious options are essential. EBT cardholders can benefit from tools such as the ‘Good and Cheap’ cookbook and USDA’s MyPlate App for advice on making economical meal choices both when eating out and preparing food in their own kitchens. Keeping an eye out for restaurant coupons and deals before deciding where to eat can also help stretch dollars further. 

Budgeting Tips for SNAP EBT Benefits Users at Restaurants

Intelligent budgeting is essential for EBT users who want to enjoy restaurant meals without exceeding their means. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your SNAP benefits.

• Purchase staple foods in bulk
• Take advantage of farmers' markets and discounts
• Plan meals ahead
• Order groceries online with EBT to save time and resources (note: delivery fees must be paid separately)

By following these tips, you can ensure a more efficient use of your SNAP benefits.

Healthy Eating with EBT

Users of Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) have access to a variety of initiatives and resources designed to promote healthy food choices, such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Programs aimed at older adults, like the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program and the Commodity Supplemental Food Program, provide benefits including discounts and supplemental food boxes that enhance their nutritional intake.

- Vanessa