Many people rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly known as food stamps, to afford groceries. However, there’s often confusion about what can be purchased with SNAP benefits, particularly regarding fast food.
Whether you can buy fast food with SNAP benefits depends on where you live. The USDA’s Restaurant Meals Program allows certain states and counties to let SNAP recipients use their benefits at approved restaurants. As of 2023, 17 states, including California, Arizona, and Rhode Island, participate in this program. In these states, eligible individuals can use their EBT cards at certain fast food restaurants like Subway, Domino’s, and KFC. However, not all locations of these restaurants may be approved, so it’s best to check with your local SNAP office or use the USDA’s SNAP Retailer Locator before trying to use your benefits at a fast food restaurant.
Participating Fast Food Programs
While many fast food chains do not accept EBT, some have been approved to participate in the RMP in select states. RMP is typically intended for elderly, disabled, or homeless individuals who may not have access to cooking facilities.
When using EBT at a participating fast food chain, not all menu items may be eligible for purchase. For example, hot food from a deli or grocery store, as well as any kind of food that you would typically purchase from a fast food chain, such as McDonald’s or Taco Bell, is not covered by EBT.
While some fast food chains may participate in the RMP in select states, remember that EBT is intended to be used for purchasing groceries and is not intended to be a regular source of meals from fast food chains.
How to Use EBT at Fast Food Outlets
Here are some steps to follow to use EBT at fast food outlets:
- Check if the fast food chain is authorized to accept EBT: The first step is to check if the fast food chain is authorized to accept EBT. This information can be found on the official SNAP website or by calling the customer service number on the back of your EBT card.
- Check if the state you live in allows EBT at fast food outlets: Even if the fast food chain is authorized to accept EBT, it is important to check if the state you live in allows EBT at fast food outlets. Some states have a Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) that allows EBT to be used at select fast food chains.
- Place your order: Once you have confirmed that the fast food chain is authorized to accept EBT and your state allows EBT at fast food outlets, you can place your order. You will need to inform the cashier that you will be using EBT to pay for your meal.
- Swipe your EBT card: After placing your order, you will need to swipe your EBT card at the point of sale terminal. The amount of your purchase will be deducted from your available balance.
Alternatives to EBT for Fast Food
One alternative is to use cash. Most fast food chains accept cash payments, so this can be a good option for those who do not have EBT. Additionally, some fast food chains offer discounts for cash payments, so this can be a way to save money on fast food purchases.
Another alternative is to use a credit or debit card. While EBT cannot be used to purchase fast food with most fast food chains, credit and debit cards are generally accepted. This can be a good option for those who do not have cash on hand or who prefer to use a card for convenience.
Finally, some fast food chains offer their own payment options, such as gift cards or loyalty programs. These can be a good option for those who frequent a particular fast food chain and want to earn rewards or discounts on their purchases.
Common Misconceptions About EBT and Fast Food
There are several misconceptions about EBT and fast food. Here are some of the most common ones:
- EBT can be used to buy fast food anywhere: This is not true. While some states have programs that allow EBT to be used at select fast food restaurants, it is not a universal rule. In most cases, EBT can only be used to buy groceries at authorized retailers, such as supermarkets and convenience stores.
- All fast food restaurants accept EBT: Even in states where EBT can be used at fast food restaurants, not all restaurants participate in the program. It is important to check with the individual restaurant to see if they accept EBT before attempting to use it.
- EBT can be used to buy any item on the menu: This is also not true. Even at participating fast food restaurants, EBT can only be used to buy certain items. Typically, only specific menu items that meet certain nutritional requirements are eligible for purchase with EBT.
- EBT can be used to buy hot prepared foods: While this is true in some cases, it is not a universal rule. In most states, EBT can only be used to buy cold prepared foods, such as sandwiches and salads. Hot prepared foods, such as fried chicken or pizza, are usually not eligible for purchase with EBT.
Future of EBT in Fast Food Industry
As of 2023, a limited number of fast-food chains accept EBT payments for select items in certain states. However, it’s uncertain if this trend will continue to grow.
One factor that might limit the expansion of EBT in fast food is the perception that fast food is unhealthy. While some advocates believe low-income individuals should have access to fast food, others argue the program should focus on promoting healthier options.
Another limiting factor is cost. Some fast-food chains might not find it cost-effective to participate, especially if they need to modify their systems to accept EBT payments.
Despite these challenges, there is evidence that EBT payments are gaining traction in the fast-food industry. For instance, in 2021, Subway began accepting EBT payments at select locations in California.
Overall, it remains uncertain whether EBT payments will become more widespread in the fast-food industry. However, the program has the potential to significantly impact low-income individuals who rely on fast food for their meals.
To learn more about the range of items you can purchase with an EBT card please refer to our comprehensive guide ‘What You Can Buy with EBT’. This guide offers valuable insights into the types of products eligible for EBT purchases.