Using government assistance programs to help feed yourself and your family is nothing to be ashamed of, especially in tough economic times. With inflation at record highs, having extra support to afford healthy food is more important than ever. But navigating these programs and understanding where your benefits can be used is confusing.
That’s why one of the most common questions asked is: does Subway take EBT?
The short answer is yes, Subway does accept EBT payments under certain conditions thanks to the Restaurant Meals Program. However, it varies by state and situation whether your electronic food stamps can be used at Subway locations.
In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about using EBT cards at Subway, including:
- What is EBT and how it works
- Who qualifies for the Restaurant Meals Program
- Exact states and locations that accept EBT
- Tips for making the most of your benefits at Subway
- Other fast food chains that take electronic food stamps
Understanding the ins and outs will help save you time, money, and hassle! So let’s get started.
What is EBT and How Does it Work at Subway?
First, we need to understand what EBT and SNAP food stamps programs are before diving into the specifics around Subway.
EBT stands for Electronic Benefit Transfer. This payment system allows recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also known as food stamps, to pay for food securely.
The EBT card you receive works similar to a debit card. It can be swiped at point-of-sale terminals in grocery stores and approved locations. Each month, your SNAP account connected to the EBT card is loaded with funds that can only be spent on eligible food items.
When you use your EBT card properly within your allotted SNAP food stamps budget, it helps supplement meals and frees up money in your budget for bills, transportation, medical expenses, and other necessities.
So how exactly does using an EBT card work at Subway?
Subway accepts EBT cards for in-store purchases only. You cannot use EBT for online ordering or through third-party delivery apps when buying Subway subs, salads, and other food items.
Here is the step-by-step process to follow:
- Check your EBT balance before placing an order to know how much you have available to spend
- Order cold subs, salads, drinks, snacks, and other eligible purchases from the Subway menu
- Avoid ordering any hot sandwiches or meals not approved for EBT payment
- When checking out, insert your EBT card into the point-of-sale terminal
- Select “EBT” as the payment option (do NOT choose debit or credit)
- Enter your unique PIN to authorize the transaction
- Keep the receipt to track spending
It’s also important to know the limits on what food items are eligible for EBT payment at Subway:
- ✅ Cold subs
- ✅ Salads
- ✅ Drinks
- ✅ Chips & snacks
- ❌ Hot toasted sandwiches
- ❌ Pre-made meal bundles
Follow those guidelines, and you’ll have no issues using your food stamp benefits at Subway!
Who Qualifies for the Restaurant Meals Program at Subway?
Under normal SNAP EBT rules, hot prepared food purchases are not allowed. The intention is that recipients buy groceries to cook affordable meals at home.
However, a special federal program called the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) makes exceptions in certain situations.
The RMP allows elderly, disabled, and homeless EBT recipients to use their benefits at approved restaurants serving hot food like Subway. This makes meals more accessible for those unable to cook at home.
Here are the exact qualifications to use SNAP EBT for hot food at Subway:
Age 60+
Seniors citizens have access to extra food options with the Restaurant Meals Program. If you’re 60 years old or above, you can use EBT at Subway.
Disabled
Those receiving SNAP benefits who have a physical, mental, or emotional disability can also qualify for the RMP. You’ll need to verify your status to participate.
Homeless
People experiencing homelessness often rely heavily on SNAP assistance. The Restaurant Meals Program gives those without stable access to kitchens and cooking amenities easier access to prepared meals.
The RMP is only active in 7 states currently. So even if you meet the age, disability, or living status criteria above, Subway locations in your state also need to be participating.
Next, we’ll cover exactly which states allow you to pay for food with EBT cards at Subway.
Which States Allow EBT Cards to be Used at Subway?
Like mentioned, only a handful of states have an active Restaurant Meals Program that is required for Subway locations to accept EBT payments.
The RMP gives restaurants like Subway special approval to take electronic food stamp benefits from qualified seniors, disabled residents, and homeless individuals.
Here are the only 3 states with confirmed Subway restaurants accepting EBT cards thanks to active RMPs:
1. Arizona
Arizona has state-wide eligibility for using your EBT card at Subway if you meet age, disability, or living requirements.
With 61 participating locations, Arizona has one of the most expansive lists of Subways approving EBT payments.
Top cities include:
- Phoenix
- Tucson
- Mesa
- Glendale
- Scottsdale
Verify your local Subway’s participation by searching here.
2. California
The Golden State allows qualified elderly, disabled, or homeless CalFresh EBT cardholders to redeem their benefits at Subway in 7 approved counties.
Those local areas containing Subways accepting EBT payments are:
- Alameda
- Los Angeles
- Orange
- Riverside
- Sacramento
- San Diego
- Santa Clara
You can verify participating Subway locations by county through this search tool provided by California’s SNAP administration.
For those in other California counties, you may still be able to use your EBT card at Subways for cold items only. Check with your nearby locations for specifics.
3. Rhode Island
Ocean State residents registered for SNAP can use their EBT cards at Subway statewide thanks to the Restaurant Meals Program.
To qualify, you’ll need to verify your age, disability status, or lack of housing accommodations.
There are 10 approved Subway locations taking EBT as payment across these Rhode Island cities:
- Providence
- Cranston
- Newport
- Pawtucket
- Central Falls
- Westerly
You can find additional participating restaurants that accept EBT for hot meals through this directory search.
Tips for Using Your EBT Card at Subway
Now that you know the ins and outs of how to pay for food at Subway with your EBT benefits, follow these handy tips to make the process smooth:
Check your SNAP balance
Before stepping into any Subway or retailer that accepts EBT, open your mobile app or call the toll-free number to check your Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program balance.
Knowing exactly how much you have for the month prevents any payment issues if your purchase exceeds remaining funds.
Only buy eligible items
Not all menu items can be paid for with SNAP EBT funds as hot prepared food rules still apply in most cases. Stick to cold subs, basic salads, drinks, chips and avoid any extra add-ons.
If your location participates in the Restaurant Meals Program, nearly everything becomes eligible. But confirm qualifications first to be safe.
Keep and organize EBT receipts
Hold onto every Subway receipt and file them away neatly. Having detailed records ensures you accurately track EBT deductions and provides proof of validity if any account disputes arise.
Never share your EBT card PIN
To complete EBT transactions, you’ll enter a 4-digit personal identification number. Never give this password out to others, including Subway employees as it connects directly to SNAP benefits in your name.
Keeping your PIN private reduces fraud or theft of government assistance funds.
Use EBT reliably and legally
While tempting with monthly allowances, don’t abuse your SNAP balance at restaurants for extravagances. Stick to Subway purchases within the intentions of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance and Restaurant Meals programs to eat affordably.
Other Fast Food Places That Take EBT
Beyond Subway, there are other convenient fast food chains and restaurants that accept EBT payments either through the federal Restaurant Meals Program or for cold food items that SNAP covers.
Here is a quick list of other popular spots taking EBT in qualifying states:
- McDonald’s – Sedona & Tucson locations in AZ accept EBT
- Taco Bell – Hundreds of locations approve EBT purchases in CA & AZ
- KFC – Atlanta Highway location in AL takes EBT
- Pizza Hut – RI, AZ, and CA all contain Pizza Huts accepting EBT
- El Pollo Loco – Dozens of these Mexican grills allow EBT in CA & AZ
- Jamba Juice – Smoothies & juices can be purchased with EBT benefits in CA
And many other fast food joints accept EBT depending on your state’s Restaurant Meals Program participation and specific store policies.
Always call ahead to double check EBT acceptance policies with quick service restaurants near you before visiting to avoid any confusion at checkout. Eligibility and rules can often vary by franchise location.
Getting the Most Value Out of Your EBT Benefits
One final tip as you navigate using your vital SNAP food stamps at Subway and other retailers – learn how to stretch budgets further:
- Seek out in-store discounts and coupons when available
- Build rewards membership status and collect points
- Purchase store brands over expensive name brands
- Shop bulk deals on non-perishables when possible
- Compare grocery prices across multiple stores
Using these smart shopping strategies in tandem with your EBT card provides healthy, affordable sustenance through tough times.
Final Thoughts
We hope this guide gives you clarity and confidence on using your EBT benefits at Subway. Now you know the Restaurant Meals Program provides essential food access to elderly, disabled and homeless recipients.
Key takeaways include:
- Subway accepts EBT in-store for cold items or hot food via the RMP
- Qualifications must be met in AZ, CA, or RI to use cards
- Always check SNAP balance before visiting and stick to eligible purchases
- Keep detailed records and never share your personal EBT card PIN
Saving money on food to stretch budgets is vital today. Follow this advice to tap into valuable assistance programs so no one has to worry about their next healthy meal.
