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Can You Use Food Stamps for Fast Food?

Last Updated on January 30, 2023 by Lauren Beck

Food stamps, also known as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), are government-provided benefits that can be used to purchase food items at participating retailers. While SNAP benefits can be used to purchase groceries, many people may wonder if they can also be used to purchase fast food. 

In this article, we will explore the topic of using food stamps at fast food restaurants, including which fast food chains accept EBT, who is eligible for the program, and how to apply.

15 Fast Food Restaurants That Accept EBT

  1. KFC
  2. Subway
  3. Domino’s Pizza
  4. Pizza Hut
  5. Taco Bell
  6. Wendy’s
  7. Burger King
  8. Popeye’s
  9. Arby’s
  10. Hardee’s
  11. Dairy Queen
  12. Carl’s Jr.
  13. Jack in the Box
  14. Jimmy John’s
  15. Little Caesars

It’s worth noting that not all locations of these fast-food chains accept EBT, so it’s best to check with the individual restaurant before placing an order.

Who Is Eligible to Use Snap Benefits at Restaurants?

Eligibility for SNAP benefits is determined by the individual’s income and household size. In general, households with incomes at or below 130% of the federal poverty level are eligible for SNAP benefits. Additionally, certain groups, such as the elderly, disabled, and homeless individuals may also be eligible.

Can EBT Be Used at Restaurants?

SNAP benefits can only be used at restaurants in certain circumstances. The Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) is a pilot program that allows SNAP beneficiaries who are elderly, disabled, or homeless to use their benefits to purchase meals at participating restaurants. It’s worth noting that RMP is only available in certain states and only certain fast food restaurants participate in the program.

Which States Offer the Restaurant Meals Program?

As of 2021, the following states have implemented the Restaurant Meals Program:

  • California
  • Connecticut
  • Georgia
  • Hawaii
  • Illinois
  • Kentucky
  • Massachusetts
  • Michigan
  • Nevada
  • New York
  • Oregon
  • Rhode Island
  • Washington

This is not an exhaustive list, as new states may join the program in the future.

What Is the Purpose of the Restaurant Meals Program?

The Restaurant Meals Program was created to help certain SNAP beneficiaries who may have difficulty preparing meals at home. This includes the elderly, disabled, and homeless individuals. By allowing them to use their benefits at participating restaurants, they have access to nutritious meals that they may not be able to prepare for themselves.

SNAP: How to Apply and How It Works

EBT Card sample

To apply for SNAP benefits, individuals can visit their local Department of Social Services or apply online through the government website. The application process includes providing information about household size, income, and assets. Once approved, SNAP benefits are added to an EBT card, which can be used to purchase food items at participating retailers.

How Do I Apply for SNAP?

To apply for SNAP, you can visit your local Department of Social Services or apply online through the government website. The application process includes providing information about household size, income, and assets.

How to Find Fast Food Restaurants That Accept EBT Food Stamps?

To find fast food restaurants that accept EBT food stamps, you can check with the individual restaurant or search online for a list of participating restaurants in your area. Additionally, you can check with your local Department of Social Services for a list of participating restaurants in your area.

Conclusion

While SNAP benefits [1] can be used to purchase groceries, the use of benefits at fast food restaurants is limited to certain circumstances. The Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) allows SNAP beneficiaries who are elderly, disabled, or homeless to use their benefits to purchase meals at participating restaurants. However, it’s important to note that RMP is only available in certain states and only certain fast food restaurants participate in the program.

Reference:

  1. https://www.benefits.gov/benefit/361#:~:text=SNAP%20provides%20benefits%20to%20eligible,largest%20federal%20nutrition%20assistance%20program.
Lauren Beck
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