Restaurants that Accept EBT in California: Guide To Using Benefits

The Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) program helps Californians access food when they need financial assistance. With a California EBT card, known as CalFresh, individuals with low incomes can purchase the food they need, including prepared meals at certain restaurants.

But which restaurants in California accept EBT? The good news is that there are several! Below, we’ll explore some specific restaurant options and provide important details about how the EBT program works in California.

Understanding How To USE EBT in CA

In California, the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) allows eligible CalFresh recipients to use their Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards to purchase prepared meals at participating restaurants. This program is designed to assist individuals who may not have the means to prepare meals at home, including those who are elderly, disabled, or experiencing homelessness.

Eligibility Criteria:

To utilize your EBT card at restaurants through the RMP, you must meet the following criteria:

  • Age: 60 years or older, or
  • Disability: Receiving disability benefits, or
  • Homelessness: Lacking a fixed and regular nighttime residence.

Additionally, you must be an active CalFresh recipient with a valid EBT card.

Using Your EBT Card at Participating Restaurants:

  1. Locate a Participating Restaurant: Look for restaurants displaying the “CalFresh Restaurant Meals Program” sign. You can also use the EBT Locator Map to find participating establishments near you.
  2. Make Your Purchase: Inform the cashier that you will be using your EBT card before ordering. Select your meal and proceed to payment.
  3. Complete the Transaction: Swipe your EBT card and enter your Personal Identification Number (PIN) to authorize the purchase.

Participating Restaurants in California:

The following table lists some of the restaurant chains that accept EBT through the RMP. Please note that participation may vary by location, and it’s advisable to confirm with the restaurant before visiting.

Restaurant ChainNotable Participating Counties
SubwayMultiple counties statewide
Jack in the BoxMultiple counties statewide
Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC)Multiple counties statewide
Pizza HutMultiple counties statewide
Taco BellMultiple counties statewide
Wendy’sMultiple counties statewide
Domino’s PizzaMultiple counties statewide
El Pollo LocoMultiple counties statewide
Popeyes Louisiana KitchenMultiple counties statewide
Burger KingMultiple counties statewide
Denny’sMultiple counties statewide
Carl’s Jr.Multiple counties statewide
McDonald’sMultiple counties statewide
YoshinoyaMultiple counties statewide
WingstopMultiple counties statewide
Papa John’s PizzaMultiple counties statewide
Louisiana Famous Fried ChickenMultiple counties statewide
Rally’s HamburgersMultiple counties statewide
Tam’s BurgersMultiple counties statewide
The Habit Burger GrillMultiple counties statewide
Waba GrillMultiple counties statewide
Tom’s Jr. BurgersMultiple counties statewide
PizzaMan Dan’sMultiple counties statewide
SombreroMultiple counties statewide
Primo BurgerMultiple counties statewide
Vallarta SupermarketMultiple counties statewide
Jamba JuiceMultiple counties statewide
Del TacoMultiple counties statewide
Chipotle Mexican GrillMultiple counties statewide
Panera BreadMultiple counties statewide
Five Guys Burgers and FriesMultiple counties statewide
In-N-Out BurgerMultiple counties statewide
SizzlerMultiple counties statewide
Jersey Mike’s SubsMultiple counties statewide
Chick-fil-AMultiple counties statewide
Shake ShackMultiple counties statewide
Red Robin Gourmet BurgersMultiple counties statewide
Qdoba Mexican EatsMultiple counties statewide
Buffalo Wild WingsMultiple counties statewide
Arby’sMultiple counties statewide
IHOP (International House of Pancakes)Multiple counties statewide
Sonic Drive-InMultiple counties statewide
Bob’s BurgersMultiple counties statewide
Golden CorralMultiple counties statewide
TGI FridaysMultiple counties statewide
Olive GardenMultiple counties statewide
Cheesecake FactoryMultiple counties statewide
Applebee’sMultiple counties statewide
Chili’s Grill & BarMultiple counties statewide
Outback SteakhouseMultiple counties statewide
Ruby TuesdayMultiple counties statewide
Long John Silver’sMultiple counties statewide
Texas RoadhouseMultiple counties statewide
Red LobsterMultiple counties statewide
Krispy Kreme DoughnutsMultiple counties statewide

For a comprehensive and up-to-date list of participating restaurants, please refer to the California Department of Social Services RMP webpage.

Additional Resources:

  • CalFresh Information Line: 1-877-847-3663 (FOOD)
  • Locate Participating Restaurants: EBT Locator Map

Please note that restaurant participation in the RMP may change over time. It’s recommended to verify with the restaurant before your visit to ensure they accept EBT payments.

Insights From Our Readers on Using EBT at Restaurants in California

Our readers have shared helpful insights regarding challenges and best practices for using EBT cards at restaurants in California. Here are some key points to keep in mind based on their experiences:


Common Issues with EBT Transactions

Many users report encountering issues where their EBT card is declined, even at restaurants that advertise EBT acceptance. This can happen due to eligibility restrictions, system errors, or how the restaurant processes the transaction. If you face a declined transaction, it’s a good idea to check your eligibility for the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) and ensure your card is properly registered with your county office.


Eligibility Requirements

To use EBT at restaurants, you must meet certain criteria: being elderly, disabled, or homeless. If your card isn’t working and you believe you qualify, contacting your county’s customer service can help resolve any registration issues. Some users found that they needed to request specific registration for the RMP, even if they already qualified.


Restaurant Participation Varies

While some well-known restaurant chains accept EBT, not all locations participate consistently. Certain locations may decline EBT transactions due to local policies or technical issues. Verifying EBT acceptance at individual restaurants ahead of time can help avoid frustration.


Technical and Fraud Issues

Readers also mentioned instances where their EBT cards stopped working due to potential fraud or inactivity. In these cases, replacing the card or contacting the county office resolved the problem. If your card is repeatedly declined despite having a sufficient balance, it may be worth checking for technical issues or unauthorized activity.


Tips for Successful EBT Use

  1. Confirm Eligibility: Ensure you are enrolled in the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) if you qualify.
  2. Check Ahead: Contact restaurants or look for signage to confirm EBT acceptance at specific locations.
  3. Keep Your Card Active: Regular use of your card can help avoid inactivity issues.
  4. Stay Informed: If issues persist, reach out to your local county office for assistance.

By staying aware of these potential challenges and solutions, you can better navigate using your EBT card at participating California restaurants.