Can You Use EBT at Taco Bell

At the time of writing, Taco Bell states that EBT acceptance is limited to select locations in three states. Even in these states, participation is not universal, so you still need to confirm the specific store before ordering.

State Is EBT Accepted at Taco Bell Important Notes
Arizona Yes at select locations Only specific stores are enabled for EBT transactions
California Yes at select locations Some purchases may require Restaurant Meals Program eligibility
Michigan Yes at select locations Some areas participate through Restaurant Meals Program

Taco Bell Cantina Locations

Taco Bell Cantina locations do not accept EBT at this time. If you are trying to use EBT, avoid Cantina branded locations and use the store list below to confirm a participating standard restaurant.

How to Know If Your EBT Will Work at Taco Bell

Most people with standard SNAP food benefits cannot use EBT at restaurants. Taco Bell acceptance typically applies only if at least one of the following is true.

  • You are approved for your states Restaurant Meals Program
  • You have an EBT cash benefit balance and the location accepts it
  • Your case has a special eligibility flag that allows hot meals through your state program

If you are unsure, the most reliable way to confirm is to call the Taco Bell location you plan to visit and ask if they accept EBT and which EBT types they accept.

Why Your EBT Might Get Declined at Taco Bell

EBT declines at Taco Bell are common even when a store posts a sign. Here are the most common reasons.

Reason What It Means What To Do
You only have standard SNAP food benefits Most SNAP food benefits do not cover hot prepared meals Ask your county or benefits office if you qualify for Restaurant Meals Program
Your store does not participate Only select Taco Bell locations are enabled Use the participating store list and call ahead
The store system is not set up correctly Some stores need a separate payment process or manager approval Ask inside at the counter and be prepared with a backup payment option
You are at a Cantina location Cantina locations are not eligible Choose a non Cantina store

Tips Before You Order

  • Call the store before you order and confirm EBT acceptance and what type they accept
  • Order at the counter first instead of the drive thru if you are unsure
  • Keep a backup payment option if possible in case your card declines
  • Ask about the cheapest items if you are stretching benefits such as bean burritos or value menu items

Participating Taco Bell Locations That Accept EBT

Below are examples of participating Taco Bell locations from the official participating location list. Because locations can change, you should still confirm before visiting.

Arizona Participating Locations

Store Number County Address City State Zip
29492 Maricopa 1125 S Dobson Rd Mesa AZ 85202
29494 Maricopa 917 N Dobson Rd Mesa AZ 85201
00141 Maricopa 3517 W Glendale Ave Phoenix AZ 85051
32735 Maricopa 7449 W Indian School Rd Phoenix AZ 85033
32728 Maricopa 4304 W Indian School Rd Phoenix AZ 85031

California Participating Locations Examples

The participating location list contains many California stores across multiple counties. Here are a few examples.

Store Number County Address City State Zip
004168 Kern 6119 Niles Street Bakersfield CA 93306
003207 Kern 3799 Rosedale Highway Bakersfield CA 93308
39801 Los Angeles 15651 Sherman Way Van Nuys CA 91406
28721 Orange County 1600 W Katella Ave Anaheim CA 92802
31851 Sacramento 7310 W Stockton Blvd Sacramento CA 95823

Michigan Participating Locations Examples

Store Number County Address City State Zip
33999 Genesee 1058 E Hill Road Grand Blanc MI 48439
01567 Macomb 28540 Gratiot Ave Roseville MI 48066
00848 Wayne 2306 Dix Hwy Lincoln Park MI 48146

Full Participating Store List

View the full Taco Bell EBT participating location list

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use EBT at Taco Bell drive thru

Sometimes, but not always. Some participating stores can process EBT in the drive thru, but others may require an in store transaction or manager approval. If you are unsure, go inside first.

Can I use EBT on the Taco Bell app

In most cases, no. Even when a store accepts EBT in person, app payments typically do not support EBT checkout. Call your local store to confirm.

Does Taco Bell accept SNAP everywhere

No. SNAP rules generally do not allow restaurant purchases unless you qualify for a special program such as Restaurant Meals Program in a participating state.

What is the Restaurant Meals Program

The Restaurant Meals Program allows certain people to use SNAP benefits at approved restaurants if they cannot easily cook or store food. Eligibility varies by state and often applies to people who are elderly, disabled, or experiencing homelessness.

Do Taco Bell Cantina locations accept EBT

No. Taco Bell states that Cantina locations do not accept EBT at this time.

Why did my EBT card get declined even though the store has a sign

This usually happens when your benefits type does not allow restaurant meals, the store is not actually enabled, or the cashier selected the wrong payment option. It can also happen if the store requires manager approval.