If you rely on SNAP benefits, you might be wondering whether you can use your EBT card to buy a meal at a restaurant. The answer is more nuanced than you'd expect — and it depends on where you live, your eligibility, and the specific program your state runs.
In this article, we'll cover:
- How the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) works with EBT cards
- Which states currently participate in the RMP in 2026
- Whether McDonald's, Burger King, and other fast food chains accept EBT
- Who qualifies to use EBT at restaurants
- Tips for stretching your SNAP dollars when eating out isn't an option
How Does EBT Work at Restaurants?
Under normal SNAP rules, you can't use your EBT card at restaurants. SNAP benefits are designed to purchase groceries — things like bread, meat, produce, and other unprepared foods. But there's an important exception called the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP).
The RMP is a state-run program that allows certain SNAP recipients to use their EBT cards at approved restaurants. It was created because some people — particularly those who are elderly, disabled, or experiencing homelessness — may not have reliable access to a kitchen or the ability to prepare meals at home. For these individuals, restricting benefits to only grocery purchases can be a real hardship.
Not every state participates in the RMP, and even in states that do, only specific restaurants choose to opt in. That's why the answer to "does McDonald's take EBT?" isn't a simple yes or no — it depends entirely on your location.
Which States Participate in the Restaurant Meals Program?
As of 2026, only a handful of states operate the RMP. California has the largest program, known as the CalFresh Restaurant Meals Program, and it operates in many counties throughout the state. Arizona, Rhode Island, and certain jurisdictions in Michigan, Maryland, and Virginia also participate, though the availability of restaurants and eligibility requirements can vary.
If you're unsure whether your state or county participates, you can check with your local SNAP office or visit your state's Department of Social Services website. Participation can change from year to year as states choose to opt in or out of the program.
Does McDonald's, Burger King, or Domino's Accept EBT?
This is one of the most common questions people ask, and the answer is: it depends on where you live. In states with an active RMP, individual restaurant locations choose whether to participate. Some McDonald's locations in California and Arizona, for example, accept EBT cards through the program. But a McDonald's in a state without the RMP will not.
Burger King, Subway, Pizza Hut, Jack in the Box, and other chains have participating locations in RMP states as well. Domino's and most delivery-only restaurants generally do not participate, since the program typically requires in-restaurant dining.
The easiest way to find out which restaurants near you accept EBT is to ask at the register, call ahead, or look for signage indicating RMP participation. Some states also maintain searchable directories of approved restaurants.
Who Qualifies to Use EBT at Restaurants?
Even in states with the RMP, not all SNAP recipients can use their EBT cards at restaurants. The program is specifically designed for people who face barriers to preparing food at home. Eligible groups typically include people who are age 60 or older, individuals who are disabled and receiving SSI or SSDI, and people who are homeless or lack access to cooking facilities.
If you receive SSI or SSDI and live in an RMP state, you may already qualify. It's worth checking your eligibility, especially if cooking is difficult due to your disability. For many people managing disability benefits, having the flexibility to purchase a prepared meal can make a real difference on tough days.
Stretching Your Food Budget on Disability Benefits
Whether or not you have access to the RMP, making your food budget work on a fixed income can be challenging. If you receive SSI benefits of $994 per month, every dollar counts. Here are a few approaches to keep in mind.
Many grocery stores run programs that double SNAP dollars when you buy fresh produce. Farmers markets in many states participate in similar matching programs. Meal delivery programs for people with disabilities — such as Meals on Wheels — can supplement your food budget at no cost. And food banks often have no income requirement, meaning you can access them even if you're already receiving SNAP.
It's also important to know that SNAP benefits don't count toward the $2,000 SSI resource limit. The money on your EBT card is separate from your bank account balance, so receiving SNAP won't jeopardize your SSI eligibility.
The Bottom Line
Using EBT at restaurants is possible, but only through the Restaurant Meals Program in participating states. If you're elderly, disabled, or homeless and live in a state with the RMP, it's worth checking whether local restaurants near you accept EBT. For everyone else, focusing on grocery strategies and community food programs can help make your benefits stretch further.
Navigating benefits on a fixed income means making every dollar count. Purple's checking account is designed specifically for SSI and SSDI recipients, with built-in tools to help you track your spending and stay compliant with resource limits.