Key Takeaways
- Only seven states allow EBT at restaurants: Arizona, California, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, New York, and Rhode Island.
- The Restaurant Meals Program is for people who are elderly, disabled, or homeless — not all EBT cardholders can use it.
- Participating restaurants vary by state and include chains like Subway, Taco Bell, Chipotle, and Wendy's, but not all locations of these chains accept EBT.
- You must check with your state's EBT program or call the restaurant directly to confirm whether a specific location takes EBT.
- Hot prepared food at grocery store delis and prepared food sections does not count — only restaurants in the Restaurant Meals Program.
Which States Have Restaurant Meal Programs
Arizona, California, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, New York, and Rhode Island are the only states that run the Restaurant Meals Program. Each state manages its own list of approved restaurants, so a Subway in California may accept EBT while one in Texas will not. The program exists because some people — elderly individuals, people with disabilities, and those experiencing homelessness — may not have a way to cook food at home.
Not every person on EBT in these states can use the Restaurant Meals Program. You must meet your state's specific requirements, which usually means you are over 60, receive disability benefits, or are living in a shelter. Contact your state's EBT customer service line to find out whether you may have access to in your state.
Which Restaurants Participate in Each State
The restaurants that accept EBT differ by state. In California, the list includes Subway, Taco Bell, Chipotle, Wendy's, and others. New York has a different set of participating locations. Arizona, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, and Rhode Island each maintain their own approved restaurant lists as well.
Even if a restaurant chain is on your state's list, not every location of that chain will accept EBT. A Taco Bell in one neighborhood may participate while another across town does not. The only way to know for certain is to call the specific restaurant or check your state's EBT program website, which usually has a searchable map or list of addresses that accept EBT.
How to Find Participating Restaurants Near You
Your state's EBT program website is the fastest way to find restaurants that accept your card. Most states have a searchable tool where you enter your zip code or city and see which restaurants nearby are in the program. You can also call your state's EBT customer service number — the number is on the back of your EBT card — and ask for a list of restaurants in your area.
If you find a restaurant you want to visit, call ahead before you go. Staff at the restaurant may not know whether their location accepts EBT, or the program status may have changed. Asking first saves you a trip and the awkwardness of finding out at checkout that your card will not work.
What Food You Can Buy at Restaurants
At participating restaurants, you can buy prepared meals — hot or cold — that are ready to eat. This includes sandwiches, tacos, burgers, salads, and other complete meals. You cannot use EBT to buy drinks, desserts, or hot food from a grocery store deli, even if that grocery store accepts EBT for other purchases.
The rule is simple: if it is a prepared meal at a restaurant in the program, it counts. If it is a single item, a drink, or food from a grocery store prepared-food section, it does not. Your EBT card will be declined if you try to buy something that is not covered.
What Happens If You Live Outside These Seven States
If you live in a state without a Restaurant Meals Program, your EBT card will not work at any restaurant, fast food or otherwise. Your card will only work at grocery stores, farmers markets, and a few other retailers that sell unprepared food you can cook at home. This includes items like bread, milk, vegetables, meat, and canned goods.
Some grocery stores have prepared-food sections or hot-food bars, but these do not accept EBT even in states with the Restaurant Meals Program. The distinction is between restaurants (which may accept EBT in certain states) and grocery stores (which do not sell prepared food on EBT, regardless of state).
How to Use Your EBT Card at a Participating Restaurant
Using your EBT card at a restaurant works the same way it does at a grocery store. Tell the cashier you are paying with EBT, hand over your card, and enter your PIN when prompted. The transaction goes through immediately, and the amount is deducted from your EBT balance. You will receive a receipt showing what you bought and your remaining balance.
Some restaurants may ask for ID to verify the card is yours. Bring your ID with you just in case. If your card is declined, it could mean the restaurant does not actually participate in the program, your PIN is incorrect, or you do not have enough balance. Ask the cashier to check with a manager if you are unsure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use EBT at Chipotle or Subway?
Only if you live in Arizona, California, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, New York, or Rhode Island, and only at locations that are enrolled in the Restaurant Meals Program. Not every Chipotle or Subway participates. Check your state's EBT website or call the specific restaurant to confirm.
What if I live in a state without a Restaurant Meals Program?
Your EBT card will not work at any restaurant. You can only use it at grocery stores and retailers that sell unprepared food. If you need a hot meal, you may be able to find community meal programs or food banks in your area that serve prepared food.
Can I buy just a drink or dessert with EBT at a restaurant?
No. You can only buy a prepared meal — a complete food item that is ready to eat. Drinks, desserts, and single items do not count. Your card will be declined if you try to buy only those items.
Do I need to be on disability to use the Restaurant Meals Program?
Requirements vary by state. Most states limit the program to people who are elderly, disabled, or homeless. Contact your state's EBT program to find out whether you meet the requirements in your state.
What if a restaurant says it accepts EBT but my card is declined?
The restaurant may no longer be enrolled in the program, or there may be a technical issue. Ask to speak with a manager. If the problem persists, contact your state's EBT customer service line to report the issue and confirm whether that location is still participating.