Many individuals and families rely on food stamps, officially known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), to help purchase groceries. However, a common question arises: can these benefits be used for hot, prepared meals from restaurants, especially fast food establishments? This report explores a specific initiative called the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP), designed to allow certain eligible individuals to use their SNAP benefits at restaurants, ensuring they can access the food they need even when cooking at home is not an option.
Yes, Some Fast Food Places Accept Food Stamps!
Indeed, some fast food restaurants do accept food stamps, but this is not a universal practice across all locations or for all SNAP recipients. This capability is made possible through the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP). The RMP is a special part of the broader SNAP initiative that permits specific eligible individuals to buy prepared meals, including hot food, at approved restaurants using their Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. This direct allowance for prepared and hot foods stands as a notable exception to the general SNAP rule, which typically restricts purchases to groceries meant for home preparation.
What is the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP)?
The Restaurant Meals Program is a vital initiative designed to address a critical gap in traditional SNAP benefits. While standard SNAP benefits are primarily intended for groceries that individuals can prepare and consume at home , this system presents significant challenges for certain vulnerable populations. For instance, elderly individuals, people with disabilities, or those experiencing homelessness often face substantial barriers to cooking for themselves. These barriers can include physical limitations, a lack of access to proper cooking facilities, or the absence of a stable place to store food.
The RMP was specifically created to bridge this gap, ensuring that these groups can still access nutritious, prepared meals when home cooking is not feasible. This program is not merely about convenience; it is fundamentally about providing essential food access and promoting dignity for those who might otherwise be excluded from the full utility of traditional SNAP benefits.
The operation of the RMP involves a collaborative effort between federal and state governments. Individual states have the choice to implement this program. If a state decides to offer the RMP, restaurants within that state can then apply to become participants. Once a restaurant receives approval from both the state and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), it gains the authority to accept EBT cards for prepared meals. This structured approval process ensures that participating establishments meet certain standards and are properly authorized to handle SNAP transactions.
Who Can Use Food Stamps at Restaurants?
It is crucial to understand that the RMP is not available to all SNAP recipients. The program is strictly for households where every member meets one of several specific conditions. This targeted approach ensures that the program’s resources are directed to those with the most acute and specific needs for prepared meals, maximizing its impact where it is most necessary.
The specific eligibility criteria include:
- Elderly Individuals: People who are 60 years old or older.
- Individuals with Disabilities: Those who receive disability payments or disability retirement benefits from a government agency due to a permanent disability.
- People Experiencing Homelessness: Individuals who do not have a fixed and regular place to live at night, or whose primary nighttime residence is a supervised shelter, a halfway house, or a place not typically recognized as a sleeping area (such as a car or a bus station). This category can also include a temporary stay in another person’s home, but only for a period of up to 90 days.
- Spouses of Eligible Clients: The spouse of an eligible elderly or disabled SNAP client also qualifies for the program, even if they do not meet the age or disability criteria themselves.
If a household meets these specific requirements, its members are typically automatically enrolled in the RMP. This means there is generally no need to fill out additional forms or apply separately for this particular program. The EBT card belonging to an eligible recipient will be specially coded by the state, allowing it to be accepted at participating restaurants.
However, it is always advisable to confirm RMP eligibility status, especially if there have been any changes in household circumstances. This can often be done by checking the state’s EBT online account, such as ebtEDGE, or by contacting the local SNAP office.
If an EBT card is not coded for the RMP, or if there are insufficient funds in the SNAP account, the transaction will be automatically declined at the restaurant. The fact that the EBT card is automatically declined if the client is not eligible is a crucial design feature. This system removes the burden from restaurant staff to verify individual eligibility, which helps reduce the potential for human error, confusion, or even discriminatory practices at the point of sale. This design, however, places the responsibility on the beneficiary to ensure their card is correctly enabled for RMP. Therefore, clear communication from state SNAP agencies about checking RMP eligibility is vital for the program’s smooth operation and user experience.
Where Can You Use Food Stamps at Restaurants?
The RMP is not a nationwide program, as its implementation is a state option. This means that only certain states have chosen to establish it, and in some cases, it is available only in specific counties or regions within those states. This creates a fragmented system, where even if a state participates in the RMP, the program might not be active in every locality.
This state-level control leads to significant variability and complexity for both beneficiaries seeking to use their benefits and for national restaurant chains attempting to implement consistent policies across their locations. This patchwork of availability means a SNAP recipient cannot assume the RMP is available even if they are in a state that participates, or that a specific national fast-food chain will accept EBT everywhere. This variability adds a significant layer of complexity and potential confusion for beneficiaries trying to access meals, and also for national restaurant chains attempting to implement consistent policies across their locations. This fragmentation also suggests a challenge for federal oversight in ensuring equitable access nationwide.
As of recent information (Fiscal Year 2022/2023), the following states operate Restaurant Meals Programs:
Table 1: States with Restaurant Meals Programs (RMP)
| State | Status (Statewide/Counties/Pilot) | Specific Counties/Areas (if applicable) | Year Implemented/Expanded (if available) |
| Arizona | Statewide | N/A | FY 2022 (continued) |
| California | Statewide | Expanded from 18 to 37 counties (FY 2022); Statewide as of Sep 2021 | FY 2022 (expanded), Sep 2021 (statewide) |
| Illinois | Specific Counties | Cook and Franklin Counties | FY 2022 (implemented) |
| Maryland | Specific Counties (Pilot) | Baltimore City, Baltimore Co., Harford, Frederick, Prince George’s, Charles, Calvert, Anne Arundel, Washington, Cecil | FY 2022 (implemented) |
| Massachusetts | Statewide | N/A | May 2023 (implemented) |
| Michigan | Specific Counties | Six counties (e.g., Washtenaw, Kent, Jackson, Ionia, Iosco) | FY 2022 (implemented) |
| New York | Specific Counties (Pilot) | Monroe County, Kings County (Brooklyn) | End of Calendar Year 2023 (pilot) |
| Rhode Island | Statewide | N/A | FY 2022 (continued) |
| Virginia | Specific Counties (Pilot) | Newport News, Virginia Beach, Portsmouth, Lynchburg, Richmond, Alexandria, Arlington, Chesapeake, Norfolk | FY 2022 (implemented) |
Examples of Fast Food Chains Accepting EBT
While participation in the RMP varies by specific restaurant location and state, several popular fast food chains have establishments that accept EBT under this program. It is important to remember that the inclusion of a chain here does not mean every single location accepts EBT; individuals must verify participation at specific restaurants.
Common fast food chains with participating locations include:
- McDonald’s: Participation varies by state and specific location.
- Subway: Widely participates in the RMP, though acceptance can differ by individual restaurant. Rhode Island’s program, for instance, heavily features Subway locations.
- Burger King: Found in RMP counties in Arizona, California, and Maryland.
- KFC: Locations in states such as California, Maryland, Michigan, New York, and Virginia accept EBT.
- Jack in the Box: Participates at select locations; checking local RMP directories is recommended.
- Carl’s Jr.: Found in RMP areas of Arizona and California.
- Del Taco: Participates in Arizona and California.
- Wendy’s: Its RMP participation is primarily limited to locations in California and Arizona.
- Taco Bell: Participates in limited locations, including California and Virginia.
- Popeyes: Participates in limited locations, such as in Michigan.
- Other notable chains and local eateries: El Pollo Loco, Firehouse Subs, Dairy Queen, Denny’s, Papa John’s Pizza, Wingstop, Domino’s Pizza, and various local restaurants and delis also participate in different RMP states and counties.
Table 2: Examples of Fast Food Chains Accepting EBT by State (RMP)
| State | Examples of Fast Food Chains (and notable local eateries) |
| Arizona | Burger King, Carl’s Jr, Dairy Queen, Del Taco, Denny’s, El Pollo Loco, Firehouse Subs, Jack in the Box, McDonald’s, Papa Johns Pizza, Subway, Wendy’s |
| California | Carl’s Jr, KFC/Taco Bell, McDonald’s, Subway, Wendy’s, Wingstop |
| Illinois | 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, Bonnie’s Care, Joe’s Pizza |
| Maryland | Burger King, KFC, 2 Soul Sisters Restaurant, CR Wings, Blue Mountain Cafe LLC, Rock Seafood, Pete’s Kitchen, Seafood On the Buff in Wheaton, Bay Crawlers Crab Shack, Bubba’s Place, Heavenly Wings |
| Michigan | Burger King, Carl’s Jr, Domino’s Pizza, Jack In The Box, KFC, McDonald’s, Popeyes, Subway |
| Massachusetts | Fresh Food Generation, Merengue Express, Vejigantes Restaurant, Stokes BBQ, La Parada Dominican Kitchen, Merengue Restaurant, New Wine Pizza, Sabrosa Venezuela (including food truck) |
| New York | KFC, Gregorio’s Pizza, Lakeside Haven Family Restaurant, Nins Restaurant, Pomodoro Pizza (Rochester); Jojo Duck Lady, Chow Chicken, Raised Pizza Bar, Sapora Restaurant, The Chubby Crab, NMA’s Restaurant (NYC) |
| Rhode Island | Subway, Federal Hill Pizza |
| Virginia | KFC, Subway, Taco Bell, Tom’s Drive-In, NN Burger, 757 Philly Cheesesteak Café, Big Rita’s, Kokonut Grill, Asian Fusion, Bistro Bros Q Deli, Juicing Life Bar and Cafe, Carytown Gyro, Stone Hot Pizza |
Finding Participating Restaurants
The most effective way to locate participating restaurants in a specific area is to consult the state or county’s SNAP office website. Many of these government sites provide online lists or interactive maps of RMP locations.
When visiting restaurants, individuals can also look for specific signage. Participating establishments typically display a sign, often in a front window or near the cash register, that reads “Participating Restaurant: SNAP Restaurant Meals Program” and may include a “Fork & Knife” logo. If there are particular local restaurants in mind, it is also an option to call them directly to inquire if they accept EBT under the Restaurant Meals Program, as participation can vary even within the same chain.
How to Use Your EBT Card at Participating Restaurants
Using an EBT card at an RMP-approved restaurant is a straightforward process, very similar to how one would use it at a grocery store. The process typically involves swiping the EBT card through a point-of-sale (POS) device and then entering a secret Personal Identification Number (PIN).
Restaurants that participate in the RMP are not responsible for determining whether a customer is eligible for the program. The EBT card itself is specially coded by the state to indicate an individual’s RMP eligibility. If a customer is not eligible, or if there are insufficient funds in their SNAP account, the transaction will simply be declined automatically when they attempt to use the card. This automated eligibility check simplifies the process for both the customer and the restaurant staff, but it places the responsibility on the beneficiary to confirm their status beforehand.
It is always a good practice to check the EBT card balance before visiting a restaurant. This can typically be done by calling the customer service number located on the back of the card or by visiting the state’s EBT website. After a successful purchase, a receipt will be provided, showing the cost of the meal and the remaining balance of the SNAP benefits.
What You Can (and Can’t) Buy with Food Stamps at Restaurants
Under the Restaurant Meals Program, eligible individuals can generally purchase “any meal offered at that restaurant”. This is a significant advantage, as it includes hot, prepared foods that are typically not allowed for purchase with regular SNAP benefits at grocery stores. Meals for breakfast, lunch, or dinner can be purchased. This flexibility is a key aspect of the RMP, directly addressing the needs of those who cannot prepare their own meals.
However, it is important to understand that the RMP is a specific exception, not a blanket expansion of SNAP purchasing power. There are still strict rules about what cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits at RMP restaurants. These ineligible items include:
- Alcoholic beverages, such as beer, wine, or liquor.
- Cigarettes and tobacco products.
- Vitamins, medicines, or supplements.
- Any non-food items, such as pet food, cleaning supplies, paper products, hygiene items, or cosmetics.
- Service gratuity (tips) or sales tax. Restaurants are explicitly prohibited from charging these on RMP purchases.
The consistent listing of these prohibited items across various sources reinforces that the program remains tightly controlled and focused solely on providing essential food. This clarification helps manage expectations for beneficiaries and prevents potential misuse of benefits, ensuring the program’s integrity and adherence to its core mission.
Important Things to Know About the RMP
The Restaurant Meals Program, while beneficial, operates with specific requirements and faces certain challenges.
Discounts for SNAP Customers
Some states mandate that participating restaurants offer a discount on meals purchased with SNAP benefits. For example, both Illinois and New York require restaurants to provide a 10% discount on all menu items to SNAP customers. Other states may implement different “concessional pricing” requirements, which could involve offering a specific reduced-price meal option, a loyalty rewards program, or a flat percentage off all items during certain hours.
A notable aspect of this requirement is that the discount must often be available to all customers, not exclusively to SNAP users. While this mandatory discount benefits SNAP beneficiaries by increasing their purchasing power, it represents a direct financial cost to the participating restaurants.
The requirement that this discount apply to all customers means restaurants cannot simply offset this cost with increased SNAP-specific volume; it impacts their overall pricing strategy and profitability. This additional financial burden could be a significant obstacle for restaurants, potentially limiting participation and influencing the types of establishments willing to join the program.
Restaurant Incentives and Challenges
Participating in the RMP can offer several incentives for restaurants, primarily by expanding their customer base and contributing to the local economy. However, restaurants also encounter various hurdles in joining and operating within the program.
They must navigate an application process with both their state and the FNS, which has been described as “cumbersome” and “time-consuming,” often involving the submission of physical mail applications. Furthermore, restaurants need to have or acquire specialized point-of-sale equipment capable of processing EBT cards. They must also agree to offer the required discounts or concessional pricing. These administrative and technical requirements can be particularly challenging for smaller, locally-owned restaurants, potentially limiting their ability to participate.
The consistent description of the restaurant application process as burdensome and the reliance on outdated infrastructure like mailed forms points to a systemic inefficiency. This creates a high barrier to entry for potential restaurant participants, particularly smaller businesses that may lack the resources to navigate complex bureaucratic processes. This directly impacts the number and variety of restaurants willing or able to participate, thereby limiting access for beneficiaries.
Program Growth and Future
Despite these challenges, the RMP is showing signs of expansion, with more states and counties either joining or piloting the program. There are ongoing efforts, including proposed legislation, aimed at streamlining the process for restaurants to join, such as by introducing digital application procedures and providing status updates on pending applications. These developments indicate a recognition of the program’s value and a commitment to making it more accessible for both restaurants and beneficiaries.
Why the Restaurant Meals Program Matters
The Restaurant Meals Program serves as a crucial component in the broader effort to combat food insecurity, particularly for individuals who face significant barriers to preparing meals at home. It ensures that vulnerable populations have access to warm, prepared food, which might otherwise be out of reach due to physical limitations, lack of cooking facilities, or homelessness.
Beyond simply providing sustenance, the RMP contributes to the well-being of its participants in more profound ways. For many, the ability to purchase a meal at a restaurant offers a sense of “hope, dignity, and strength”. It provides a degree of choice in what they eat, which is important for meeting individual dietary preferences and needs. This aspect also helps to reduce the stigma that can sometimes be associated with using SNAP benefits.
The program’s impact extends beyond just providing food, contributing to dignity and economic activity. While the most immediate and obvious purpose of the RMP is to provide food access, the evidence consistently emphasizes broader, less tangible benefits such as dignity, hope, and choice. This elevates the program from a simple transactional benefit to one that addresses the psychological and social well-being of vulnerable populations.
The program also yields economic benefits. By bringing new customers to participating restaurants, the RMP supports local economies and helps sustain jobs within the food service industry. Research indicates a significant economic multiplier effect: for every dollar spent in SNAP, an estimated $1.50 to $1.80 is generated in wider economic activity. This demonstrates that the RMP is not merely an expenditure but an investment that stimulates local economies and supports businesses.
Concerns have sometimes been raised that the RMP’s reliance on fast food establishments might lead to negative health outcomes, such as increased obesity rates. However, studies examining the program’s impact have found that it is associated with a reduction in food insecurity and has not been linked to increased obesity rates among participants.
In fact, one study found a two-percentage point reduction in hunger among interviewees as a result of a 1% increase in the number of participating restaurants. This finding is significant because it directly addresses a major public perception issue, demonstrating that the program effectively achieves its primary goal of reducing food insecurity without the feared negative health consequences, even within the practical constraints of available restaurant options.
Conclusions
The Restaurant Meals Program is a vital and targeted component of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, specifically designed to support elderly, disabled, and homeless individuals, along with their spouses, who face significant challenges in preparing their own meals. While its availability varies by state and even by county, the program allows eligible individuals to use their EBT benefits for prepared and hot meals at approved restaurants, including many popular fast food chains.
The RMP addresses a critical gap in traditional food assistance by providing access to ready-to-eat food, which is essential for those without cooking facilities or the physical ability to cook. The automated eligibility check through EBT cards simplifies transactions for both beneficiaries and restaurants, though it places the responsibility on individuals to confirm their RMP status. Despite concerns about the types of food available, research indicates that the program effectively reduces food insecurity without contributing to increased obesity rates among participants.
However, the program’s fragmented state-by-state implementation and the administrative burdens placed on restaurants to participate pose significant challenges to its broader reach and effectiveness. Efforts to streamline the application process for restaurants, such as through digital platforms, could help expand the program’s availability. Ultimately, the RMP not only provides essential nutrition but also contributes to the dignity, choice, and economic well-being of vulnerable populations and the communities they live in.