In-N-Out Does Not Accept SNAP Benefits

In-N-Out Burger does not take EBT cards for food purchases. The chain is not enrolled in the SNAP program (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly called food stamps), so you cannot use your EBT card there, even though it is a restaurant.

This is true at every In-N-Out location in the United States. The company has chosen not to participate in SNAP, which means their registers are not set up to process EBT payments. If you try to use your card, it will be declined.

The reason matters: SNAP rules allow restaurants to accept EBT only if they are enrolled in the Restaurant Meals Program, a separate track that requires additional licensing and paperwork. Most fast-casual chains, including In-N-Out, have not gone through that process. Only certain restaurants in specific states — mainly those serving seniors, people with disabilities, or homeless individuals — participate.

Key Takeaways

  • In-N-Out does not accept EBT cards at any of its locations nationwide.
  • SNAP benefits can only be used at grocery stores and farmers markets, not at restaurants, unless the restaurant is enrolled in the Restaurant Meals Program.
  • Most major fast-food chains do not accept SNAP, with very few exceptions in limited states.
  • You can use your EBT card at grocery stores to buy ingredients and prepare meals at home instead.

Which Restaurants Do Accept SNAP

The Restaurant Meals Program exists in only a handful of states: California, Arizona, Rhode Island, Illinois, and Maryland. Even in those states, only certain restaurants participate — typically smaller establishments that serve seniors, people with disabilities, or homeless individuals.

Large chains like McDonald's, Burger King, Wendy's, Taco Bell, and Chipotle do not accept SNAP in any state. The program is designed for vulnerable populations and requires restaurants to meet specific criteria and complete enrollment paperwork that most chains do not pursue.

If you live in one of the five states with the program and want to know which restaurants near you participate, you can contact your state's SNAP office or call 211 to ask. They maintain a list of enrolled locations. Some local Area Agencies on Aging also keep current lists if you are a senior or serving seniors in your household.

What You Can Buy With Your EBT Card Instead

Your EBT card works at grocery stores, supermarkets, farmers markets, and some online retailers. You can purchase fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, bread, cereal, snacks, and other food items to cook or prepare at home.

SNAP does not cover hot or prepared foods, alcohol, tobacco, vitamins, medicine, or non-food items like soap or paper towels. If an item is shelf-stable and meant to be eaten, it is usually allowed. If it is hot when you buy it or ready to eat, it is not.

Some grocery stores have deli counters or prepared food sections. Items from those sections are not covered by SNAP, even if they are in the same store. The cashier will know which items ring up as SNAP-may be able to access and which do not. When in doubt, ask before you check out.

Using Your EBT Card at Farmers Markets

Many farmers markets accept EBT cards directly at vendor booths. You swipe your card the same way you would at a grocery store. Some markets have a central booth where you exchange your EBT funds for tokens or vouchers, which you then use to buy from individual vendors.

Farmers markets often have fresh produce, eggs, dairy, and bread — all SNAP-covered items. If you have a farmers market near you, it can be a good way to spend your benefits on fresh food. You can find markets in your area through the USDA's farmers market directory online, or ask at your local library or community center.

How to Find Stores That Accept Your EBT Card

You can search for stores that accept SNAP using the USDA's online store locator tool. Enter your zip code and it will show you grocery stores, supermarkets, and farmers markets in your area that take EBT cards.

You can also call your state's SNAP office or dial 211 to ask which stores near you accept benefits. Many local food banks and community centers have lists of participating retailers as well. Some states also send this information by mail when you first receive your EBT card.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my EBT card at any restaurant?

No. SNAP benefits work only at grocery stores and farmers markets in most places. Only five states have a Restaurant Meals Program, and even there, only certain restaurants participate — usually small establishments serving seniors or people with disabilities, not major chains.

What if I buy groceries and cook at home instead?

That is the main way SNAP is designed to work. You can buy ingredients at any grocery store or supermarket that accepts EBT, take them home, and prepare meals yourself. This usually costs less per meal than eating out and gives you more control over what you eat.

Can I use my EBT card online to order food delivery?

Some online grocery services accept EBT, but food delivery apps like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub do not. You can order groceries from certain retailers online and have them delivered, but restaurant meals cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits in any state.

What if my EBT card is declined at a store that says it accepts SNAP?

The store may accept SNAP, but the specific item you are buying might not be covered. Hot foods, prepared items, and non-food products are not may be able to access. If you are buying only food items and the card is still declined, contact your state's SNAP office to check your account balance and status.