Introduction to SNAP and EBT
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides benefits to low-income families through Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards, which can be used to purchase food items, including at some fast food restaurants. State welfare departments are responsible for administering SNAP and issuing EBT cards to eligible recipients.
EBT cards function similarly to a debit card, allowing users to purchase approved items at authorized locations, including select fast food chains like McDonald’s, Burger King, and Kentucky Fried Chicken. SNAP and EBT are government programs designed to help low-income families access nutritious food.
Understanding the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP)
The Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) allows SNAP beneficiaries to use their benefits to purchase hot, prepared meals at authorized restaurants. Eligible individuals include the elderly, disabled, and homeless who are unable to prepare meals at home.
Also known as the restaurant program, participation requires restaurants to meet Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) approval and have systems to process EBT transactions.
States Participating in the RMP
You can use an EBT card at McDonald’s only if you live in certain states that participate in the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP). SNAP is extended through the RMP. The purpose of this program is so that people who cannot otherwise get warm food can do so.
The states that participate in RMP are:
- California
- Arizona
- Michigan
- Maryland
- Rhode Island
- Illinois
Other states, such as Virginia, have their own rules regarding EBT acceptance at restaurants and may participate in the future. RMP varies by state, and different rules apply depending on the state, so eligibility and participating restaurants can differ widely.
Using EBT at McDonald’s and Burger King
Even in the states that participate in the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP), only participating locations of fast food chains accept EBT cards.
For example, McDonald’s doesn’t accept EBT cards in Rhode Island, Illinois, Michigan, and Maryland. Even in California and Arizona, the two states with the most elaborate RMPs, not all fast-food locations accept EBT cards.
Only select locations accept SNAP benefits for hot meals, so you must check specific locations to see if they participate.
So even if you and your state participate in the RMP, you won’t be able to use your card at McDonald’s unless you find an RMP-approved fast food restaurant.
Some McDonald’s and Burger King locations accept SNAP benefits under the RMP, allowing eligible individuals to purchase hot meals and prepared foods at participating restaurants. Acceptance of EBT cards for restaurant purchases depends on specific locations and state regulations.
Menu items eligible for purchase with EBT may vary by location, so it is important to verify which menu items qualify. EBT users must have enough money on their card to complete the transaction. The benefit of the RMP is that it allows eligible individuals to purchase prepared food and hot meals at select fast food restaurants.
This usually does not apply to fast-food apps online.
Eligibility and How to Use EBT at Participating Restaurants
To be eligible for the RMP, individuals must receive SNAP benefits and meet criteria such as being elderly, disabled, homeless, or lacking permanent housing. The RMP allows eligible individuals to purchase prepared meals at participating restaurants.
How to Use EBT at a Participating Restaurant
- Confirm the location accepts EBT under the RMP.
- Select your meal.
- Inform the cashier you will pay with your EBT card.
- The cost will be deducted from your SNAP benefits.
Finding Participating Restaurants
To find restaurants that accept EBT through the RMP, visit your state’s SNAP website or contact your local SNAP office. Some states provide online directories or lists of approved restaurants.
Participation is limited to certain areas, and not every location within a chain participates. Be sure to check if a particular location participates in the program before visiting.
For example, in San Diego, some fast food restaurants participate in the RMP, but availability varies by store and region. Calling ahead to confirm participation is recommended, as availability can vary by location.
Conclusion
The Restaurant Meals Program provides a valuable option for eligible SNAP recipients to purchase hot, prepared meals at authorized restaurants, including some McDonald’s and Burger King locations in participating states.
Always verify your state’s participation and the restaurant’s approval before attempting to use your EBT card.
To learn more, visit our SNAP Violation Attorney website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP)?
The Restaurant Meals Program is a federal option under SNAP that allows certain individuals, elderly, disabled, or homeless to use EBT benefits at participating restaurants for prepared meals. This is intended for those who may not have the ability to cook at home.
Can I use my EBT card at any McDonald’s?
No, EBT cards can only be used at select McDonald’s locations in states that participate in the RMP. Even in participating states, not all McDonald’s accept EBT, so it’s important to check the specific location.
Which states currently participate in the RMP?
As of now, California, Arizona, Michigan, Maryland, Rhode Island, and Illinois participate in the Restaurant Meals Program. Participation may vary, and other states like Virginia may add programs in the future.
Who qualifies to use EBT at restaurants through the RMP?
To qualify, an individual must be enrolled in SNAP and be elderly, disabled, or homeless. These criteria ensure that those who may not have cooking facilities or the ability to prepare meals can access hot food.
How do I find out if a restaurant accepts EBT?
You can check your state’s SNAP website or contact your local SNAP office for a list of participating restaurants. It’s also a good idea to call the restaurant directly to confirm they accept EBT under the RMP.