In 2025, many low-income individuals and families rely on government assistance programs like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) to help buy food. A common question is whether they can use their EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) cards at fast food restaurants. This article explains which fast food places accept food stamps in 2025, how the system works, and what options are available for those who want quick, affordable meals using their benefits.
Food insecurity remains a challenge for millions across the United States. To address this, some states participate in special programs allowing certain groups, like the elderly, disabled, or homeless, to buy hot meals at approved restaurants with their EBT cards. These programs are called the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP). Not all states participate, but in those that do, many popular fast food chains are involved.
This article provides a detailed overview of the fast food restaurants accepting food stamps in 2025, including the states where these programs are active, the participating chains, and how to find local options. It aims to help eligible individuals make informed choices about where they can use their benefits for quick and nutritious meals.
Which States Offer the Restaurant Meals Program?
In 2025, only a handful of states participate in the Restaurant Meals Program. These states include California, Arizona, Maryland, Rhode Island, Hawaii, Illinois, and Michigan. The program is designed to help vulnerable populations—such as seniors, disabled persons, and homeless individuals—buy hot meals at authorized restaurants.
Each participating state sets its own rules about which restaurants can accept EBT for hot foods. The program is limited to specific counties within these states, meaning not every restaurant in a participating state may accept food stamps. To find out if a restaurant in your area participates, check your state’s official SNAP or EBT website or contact local social services.
Which Fast Food Chains Accept Food Stamps in 2025?
Many popular fast food chains participate in the Restaurant Meals Program, but participation varies by location. Here are some of the most common chains that accept food stamps in 2025:
McDonald’s
McDonald’s participates in the RMP at select locations. In states like Michigan, California, and Arizona, some McDonald’s outlets accept EBT for hot meals. It’s important to check with your local restaurant to confirm.
Subway
Subway is involved in the RMP in several states. Many Subway locations participate, especially in California, Rhode Island, and Arizona. EBT can be used to buy sandwiches and other eligible items at participating outlets.
Burger King
Burger King participates in the RMP in certain states and counties. Many locations in California, Arizona, and Illinois accept EBT for hot food purchases.
KFC
KFC is another chain that accepts EBT in some states, especially where the RMP is active. You can enjoy their famous fried chicken and sides with your benefits.
Taco Bell
Taco Bell participates in the RMP at limited locations. If your local Taco Bell is authorized, you can use your EBT card for hot, ready-to-eat meals.
Pizza Chains (Pizza Hut, Domino’s, Papa John’s)
Pizza chains like Pizza Hut, Domino’s, and Papa John’s are involved in the RMP in certain states. You can purchase pizza and sides with your EBT card at participating locations.
Other Chains
Wendy’s: Limited participation, mainly in California.
Little Caesars: Some locations accept EBT.
El Pollo Loco: Many California and Arizona locations accept EBT.
Popeyes: Limited locations participate in the RMP.
How to Find Participating Restaurants
To determine if a specific restaurant near you accepts food stamps in 2025, follow these steps:
Visit your state’s official SNAP or EBT website.
Use the USDA’s SNAP retail locator.
Contact local social services or welfare offices.
Call the restaurant directly to ask if they accept EBT under the RMP.
How Does the Restaurant Meals Program Work?
The RMP allows eligible individuals—such as seniors, disabled persons, and homeless—to buy hot meals at approved restaurants using their EBT cards. The program is designed to provide nutritious, ready-to-eat food options for those who cannot cook at home.
In participating states, restaurants must be authorized by the USDA to accept EBT for hot foods. Customers can purchase meals just like they would with cash or a debit card, but only for items that qualify under the program. The list of eligible foods includes prepared hot meals, sandwiches, and sides.
Benefits and Limitations
The main benefit of the program is that it provides access to hot, nutritious meals for vulnerable populations. It also helps support local restaurants by increasing their customer base.
However, participation is limited to certain states, counties, and restaurant chains. Not all locations of a chain may accept EBT. Additionally, the program only applies to specific groups and types of food, not all grocery items.
Conclusion
In 2025, many fast food places accept food stamps through the Restaurant Meals Program in select states. Chains like McDonald’s, Subway, Burger King, KFC, Taco Bell, and some pizza restaurants participate in this program. If you are eligible, it’s important to check if your local restaurants are authorized to accept EBT for hot meals.
Using your food benefits at fast food restaurants can be a convenient and affordable way to access nutritious meals. Always verify with local restaurants or official state resources to ensure they participate in the program. This way, you can make the most of your benefits and enjoy quick, satisfying meals when needed.
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