Millions of Americans rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps, to afford groceries. While SNAP benefits are primarily used for purchasing food at grocery stores and markets, a lesser-known program called the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) offers crucial flexibility. This program allows eligible SNAP recipients to use their Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards to buy prepared meals at participating restaurants.
For individuals facing challenges in preparing meals at home – such as seniors, people with disabilities, or those experiencing homelessness – the RMP can be a vital resource. But navigating this program can be confusing. If you’re wondering “What Restaurants Accept Ebt Near Me?”, you’re in the right place. This comprehensive guide will break down everything you need to know about the SNAP Restaurant Meals Program, helping you understand how to find participating restaurants, who is eligible, and how to make the most of this valuable benefit.
Discovering Restaurants That Accept EBT
Finding restaurants that are part of the Restaurant Meals Program and accept EBT can be done through several methods. The most direct approach is often to check with your state’s SNAP agency, as participating states frequently maintain resources to help beneficiaries locate RMP restaurants.
One of the most user-friendly tools provided by some states is an interactive restaurant locator map. These maps, usually available on the state’s SNAP or social services website, allow you to search for participating restaurants in your vicinity. Simply entering your location can reveal nearby options that accept EBT for prepared meals.
In addition to maps, many states also publish comprehensive lists of participating restaurants. These lists, often available as downloadable documents on state websites, provide detailed information about restaurants enrolled in the RMP. You can typically search or filter these lists by city or region to pinpoint restaurants near you that accept EBT.
Another practical way to identify participating restaurants is to look for signage when you’re out and about. Restaurants involved in the RMP often display signs indicating their participation. These signs are commonly placed in visible locations such as front windows, doors, or near cash registers.
These signs usually include phrases like “Participating Restaurant: SNAP Restaurant Meals Program” or similar wording that clearly indicates their involvement. Keep an eye out for these signs as you explore dining options in your community. Some signs may also incorporate a symbol of a fork and knife to further highlight their participation in a meal program.
It’s also worth noting that restaurants participating in the RMP are generally required to offer a discounted meal option specifically for SNAP participants. While you are not obligated to order this discounted meal, it’s something to be aware of when reviewing menus at RMP restaurants.
If online searches and visual cues aren’t providing enough information, you can directly contact your local SNAP office. SNAP offices are equipped to provide information about local resources, and this includes details about participating restaurants in the Restaurant Meals Program. A quick phone call to your local SNAP office can provide you with a list of restaurants in your area that accept EBT. You can find contact information for your local SNAP office on your state’s SNAP website or through a general online search for “SNAP office near me.”
States That Participate in the Restaurant Meals Program
It’s important to note that the Restaurant Meals Program is not a nationwide initiative. Participation is optional for each state, and currently, only a limited number of states have chosen to implement the RMP. As of now, the Restaurant Meals Program is available in these states:
- Arizona
- California
- Illinois
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- New York
- Rhode Island
- Virginia
If you reside in one of these states, you may be eligible to use your EBT card at participating restaurants if you meet the program’s eligibility criteria. It’s crucial to confirm whether your state participates in the RMP, as the availability of the program is geographically limited. States not listed above do not currently offer the Restaurant Meals Program. For residents of non-participating states, SNAP benefits remain primarily for grocery purchases.
A Detailed Look at Restaurants Accepting EBT by State
To give you a clearer picture of where you can use your EBT card for restaurant meals, here’s a more detailed breakdown of participating restaurants in states that offer the RMP. Please remember that restaurant participation can change, so it’s always best to verify directly with the restaurant or your state’s SNAP agency for the most up-to-date information.
Arizona
Arizona boasts a diverse range of restaurants participating in the RMP, particularly in larger cities. You can find EBT acceptance at various locations of popular fast-food chains and local eateries.
- Chandler: Burger King, El Pollo Loco, Firehouse Subs, Jack in the Box, Jimmy & Joe’s Pizzeria Serious, Slices, McDonald’s, Subway, and more.
- Flagstaff: Burger King, Butler Subway Cafe, Chix N Mex, Subway, and more.
- Mesa: Burger King, Carl’s Jr, El Pollo Loco, Jack in the Box, Subway, and more.
- Phoenix: Burger King, Carl’s Jr, Dairy Queen, El Pollo Loco, Jack n’ the Box, McDonald’s, Subway, and more.
- Tucson: Burger King, Carl’s Jr, Chickenuevo, Church’s Texas Chicken, Dairy Queen, Denny’s, Del Taco, McDonald’s, Papa John’s Pizza, Subway, Wendy’s, and more.
Find more eligible restaurants in Arizona
California
California has a robust Restaurant Meals Program with numerous participating restaurants across the state, especially in major metropolitan areas.
- San Francisco: Carl’s Jr, Chico’s Pizza, UCSF Subway Parnassus, UCSF Subway, Mission Bay, and more.
- Los Angeles: Subway, Jack in the Box, Louisiana Famous Fried Chicken and Fish Market, Domino’s Pizza, Denny’s Restaurant, Wok on the Wild Side, Wendy’s, El Pollo Loco, Del Taco, Kentucky Fried Chicken, Pizza Hut, and more.
- Riverside: McDonald’s, Subway, Yoshinoya Beef Bowl #2152, Del Taco, Denny’s #7156, and more.
- San Diego: Pizza Hut, Burger King, Denny’s, Jack in the Box, Kentucky Fried Chicken, Wendy’s, and more.
Find more eligible restaurants in California
Illinois
Illinois’s RMP is more concentrated in specific areas, particularly around Chicago.
- Chicago: BJ’s Market & Bakery, Caribbean Jerk’s Palace III, Doughboy’s Chicago, Firehouse Bakery & Grill, JJ Fish and Chicken, Ocean Wave Soul & Seafood, S2 Express Grill, and more.
- Franklin County: Bonnie’s Care, Joe’s Pizza.
Find more eligible restaurants in Illinois
Maryland
Maryland’s RMP has a more limited number of participating restaurants, often within specific counties.
- Anne Arundel County: KFC.
- Baltimore: Burger King.
- Calvert County: 2 Soul Sisters Restaurant, KFC.
- Carroll County: Burger King.
- Charles County: KFC.
- Frederick County: KFC.
- Hartford County: CR Wings.
- Montgomery County: Burger King.
- Prince George’s County: KFC.
Find more eligible restaurants in Maryland
Massachusetts
Massachusetts’s RMP includes a mix of local restaurants and some chain locations, primarily in the Boston and Worcester areas.
- Boston: Fresh Food Generation, Merengue Express, Vejigantes Restaurant, Stokes BBQ, La Parada Dominican Kitchen, Merengue Restaurant.
- Worcester: New Wine Pizza, Sabrosa Venezuela.
Find more eligible restaurants in Massachusetts
Michigan
Michigan’s RMP features a diverse selection of restaurants, including Coney Islands, pizza places, and BBQ joints, particularly in Detroit, Dearborn, Grand Rapids, and Lansing.
- Detroit: A Eagles Coney Island, Embassy Coney Island, ERR’Thang Smoked, Heavenly Chicken and Waffles, Market Fresh Deli, Sheeba Express, Subway, The Congregation Detroit, YumVillage.
- Dearborn: Toarmina’s Pizza, Bionde’s Subs, Westpoint Bar-B-Que, Del Taco.
- Grand Rapids: Burton Village BBQ Company, Popeye’s, Wing Heaven Moo Gobble Burger.
- Lansing: Crack Chicken, Eastside Fish Fry, Just Munchies, Siraj Cuisine.
Find more eligible restaurants in Michigan
New York
New York’s RMP is active in New York City and Rochester, with a variety of cuisines represented.
- Bronx: Leche Y Miel Restaurant, Pa’ Comer, Lins Home Chinese, Kaieteur Restaurant.
- Brooklyn: Jam It Bistro, Brain Food Deli & Smart Kitchen, Roseli Chinese Restaurant, Memphis Seoul, IHOP, Ocean Eats, Lady Chow Kitchen.
- Manhattan: Justino’s Pizzeria, Ray’s Pizza, BarIL, SoleSapoara Restaurant, The Chubby Crab.
- Queens: Blaze 718.
- Rochester: Lakeside Haven Family Restaurant, Pomodoro Pizza, Wings & Pasta, Gregorio’s Pizza, Nin’s Restaurant.
Find more eligible restaurants in New York
Rhode Island
Rhode Island’s RMP currently lists Subway restaurants in several cities.
- Cranston, Providence, Pawtucket, Woonsocket, Westerly: Subway restaurants.
Find more eligible restaurants in Rhode Island
Virginia
Virginia’s RMP includes a mix of local restaurants and fast-food chains, with Subway and KFC having multiple locations.
- Ararat: Red Rooster Cafe.
- Newport News, Virginia Beach, Portsmouth: Subway restaurants.
- Lynchburg: Asian Fusion, Bistro Bros Q Deli.
- Richmond: Kokonut Grill.
- Statewide: KFC, Taco Bell (participating locations).
Find more eligible restaurants in Virginia
Fast Food Restaurants and EBT: What to Expect
Many people searching for “restaurants that accept ebt near me” are specifically interested in fast food options. The good news is that some fast-food chains do participate in the Restaurant Meals Program in participating states. However, participation can vary significantly by location and state.
While broad generalizations are difficult, here’s a look at some major fast-food restaurants and their general participation in the RMP:
- McDonald’s: McDonald’s has varying levels of participation in the RMP. Some locations in Arizona, California, and other participating states accept EBT. It’s essential to check local RMP directories or look for signage at specific McDonald’s restaurants.
- Subway: Subway is a more consistent participant in the RMP across multiple states. You’ll find Subway locations listed in the RMP directories for Arizona, California, Michigan, Rhode Island, and Virginia, among others. However, even with Subway, acceptance can still vary by individual franchise, so verifying is always recommended.
- Jack in the Box: Jack in the Box participates in the RMP in select locations, particularly in Arizona and California. Check state RMP directories for specific locations.
- KFC: KFC also participates in the RMP in certain states like Maryland, Virginia, and California. Participation levels can vary, so local verification is advised.
- Wendy’s: Wendy’s participation in the RMP seems to be more limited geographically, with stronger participation in California compared to other RMP states.
- Taco Bell: Taco Bell has limited participation in the RMP, primarily in states like Virginia, and even then, only at select locations.
- Popeyes: Popeyes also has limited RMP participation, with some locations in Michigan participating.
It’s crucial to understand that while these fast-food chains may participate in the RMP, it’s not a blanket policy across all their restaurants. Always confirm participation through state resources or by directly contacting the restaurant to avoid disappointment.
What Kind of Food Can You Buy at Restaurants with EBT?
Once you’ve found a restaurant that accepts EBT and is part of the RMP, you might wonder about restrictions on what you can order. Generally, the Restaurant Meals Program is designed to provide flexibility, allowing you to purchase a wide range of menu items.
According to experts like Andrew Cheyne, managing director of public policy for GRACE/End Child Poverty CA, you can typically order “any meal offered at that restaurant.” This means you are not limited to specific discounted meals or restricted menus when using your EBT card at an RMP restaurant. Whether you’re in the mood for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and whatever your taste preferences, your EBT card can be used for eligible food items on the menu.
It’s important to clarify a common point of confusion: the RMP is specifically for restaurant purchases. While the RMP allows the purchase of hot, prepared meals at participating restaurants, this benefit does not extend to purchasing hot foods at any store that accepts EBT. Regular SNAP benefits typically restrict the purchase of hot, ready-to-eat foods at grocery stores or convenience stores. The RMP is a distinct program with a specific purpose – to enable access to prepared meals for eligible individuals at approved restaurants. Julianna Lai, a policy specialist at Propel, emphasizes this distinction, noting that the RMP is “specifically approved for restaurant purchases.”
How to Use Your EBT Card at Restaurants: A Simple Process
Using your EBT card at a participating restaurant is designed to be as straightforward as using a debit or credit card. If you are eligible for the RMP, your EBT card will be coded by your state to be accepted at participating restaurants. This coding is done automatically when your eligibility for RMP is determined; no special action is needed on your part.
When you’re ready to pay for your meal, simply inform the restaurant cashier that you will be using your EBT card. The restaurant will process your card using a point-of-sale (POS) device that is programmed to accept EBT payments. This process is very similar to using a debit or credit card.
Just like with any EBT transaction, you will need to enter your Personal Identification Number (PIN) to authorize the payment. Ensure that you have sufficient funds in your EBT account to cover the cost of your meal. The transaction will then be processed, and the amount will be deducted from your available EBT balance.
If you attempt to use an EBT card at an RMP restaurant and you are not eligible for the program, or if the restaurant is not participating, the transaction will be declined. It’s a good idea to confirm a restaurant’s participation beforehand if you are unsure.
A Critical Reminder: Protect Your EBT PIN
Regardless of where you are using your EBT card, it is absolutely crucial to protect your PIN. Never share your EBT PIN with anyone, including restaurant employees, store staff, or anyone else. Your PIN is your security key to your benefits. If someone gains access to your EBT card number and PIN, they can steal your benefits. Treat your EBT card and PIN with the same level of security you would give to your bank card and ATM PIN.
Who is Eligible for the Restaurant Meals Program? Understanding Qualifications
The Restaurant Meals Program is not universally available to all SNAP recipients. It is specifically targeted towards certain vulnerable populations within the SNAP program. The RMP is designed as an additional option within SNAP, not a replacement for standard SNAP benefits. As Julianna Lai from Propel explains, “The RMP is an additional option that some states offer as part of SNAP.”
The primary goal of the RMP is to provide a way for SNAP recipients who are at high risk of chronic hunger and who face barriers to preparing food at home to access prepared meals. The program is particularly helpful for individuals who may have difficulty cooking for themselves, lack stable housing with cooking facilities, or have limited access to grocery stores.
Individuals who may qualify for the Restaurant Meals Program typically include:
- Seniors (Age 60 and Older): Older adults who may have physical limitations, mobility issues, or lack of transportation to grocery stores can benefit significantly from the RMP.
- People with Disabilities: Individuals receiving disability payments, blindness payments, or disability retirement benefits from a government agency due to a permanent disability are often eligible. The RMP can address challenges related to cooking and meal preparation for those with disabilities.
- Unhoused Individuals: People experiencing homelessness often lack cooking facilities and stable food storage options. The RMP provides a crucial pathway for accessing nutritious prepared meals.
- Spouses of SNAP Recipients in Eligible Categories: In some cases, spouses of SNAP recipients who fall into one of the above categories may also be eligible for the RMP. It’s best to check specific state guidelines for details on spousal eligibility.
Andrew Cheyne emphasizes the critical role of the RMP in providing nutrition access to these vulnerable groups. “If you cannot leave your home to purchase groceries, or do not have a home, these are just a few of the scenarios in which the RMP is a lifeline to ensure people experiencing poverty-related hunger can utilize their federally entitled food benefits to eat,” he states.
The RMP also serves as a vital resource for SNAP beneficiaries living in food deserts – areas with limited access to affordable and nutritious groceries. In such areas, participating restaurants may offer a more accessible food option compared to distant or unavailable grocery stores.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Restaurant Meals Program
1. Can I buy hot food with EBT in general?
Generally, no. Standard SNAP benefits usually do not cover hot, ready-to-eat foods like rotisserie chicken, hot soups, or items from salad bars that are intended for immediate consumption. However, there are exceptions. During declared disasters, waivers may be granted allowing SNAP to be used for hot foods, assuming beneficiaries may not have cooking facilities available. The Restaurant Meals Program is the primary exception that permits the purchase of hot meals with EBT, but only at participating restaurants and for eligible individuals.
2. Can I use EBT on food delivery apps like DoorDash?
You can use EBT cards for purchases through DoorDash, but with significant limitations. EBT can be used to purchase groceries from participating grocery stores and convenience stores (like some 7-Eleven locations) through DoorDash. However, you cannot use EBT to pay for restaurant meals on DoorDash. SNAP benefits cannot be used to cover delivery fees, tips, or other service charges on DoorDash. Therefore, while DoorDash expands access to grocery delivery for SNAP recipients, it does not extend the Restaurant Meals Program to online restaurant orders. Irene Lewis, a senior policy analyst at the Food Research & Action Center (FRAC), confirms this, stating that SNAP benefits “cannot be used to purchase meals from restaurants on DoorDash.” Participating grocery stores on DoorDash include retailers like Costco, ALDI, Food Lion, and Target, among others, allowing for online SNAP grocery purchases but not restaurant meal delivery.
In Conclusion: The Restaurant Meals Program as a Vital Support
The SNAP Restaurant Meals Program is a crucial initiative that significantly enhances food security for vulnerable SNAP recipients. By enabling the use of EBT cards at participating restaurants, the RMP provides a pathway to nutritious, prepared meals for seniors, people with disabilities, and those experiencing homelessness. For individuals facing challenges in preparing food at home or accessing grocery stores, the RMP can be a lifeline, ensuring they can utilize their SNAP benefits effectively.
If you have further questions about managing your SNAP benefits and exploring resources like the Restaurant Meals Program, consider utilizing helpful tools like the Propel app. The Propel app is a highly-rated EBT balance checking app and offers a wealth of information about SNAP benefits and related programs, helping you stay informed and manage your benefits effectively.
