Does Subway Take EBT Cards?
Like most big fast-food chains in the states, Subway accepts EBT cards as a payment method. However, some restrictions apply to what individuals can buy using the EBT card.
Also important to know is that Subway only allows people to use their EBT card in states that are part of the (RMP) Restaurant Meals Program.
Subway allows EBT payments only for in-store purchases, and there are also restrictions on what food items can be purchased.
Whenever you want to use your EBT card at Subway, you must have certain documents, such as your ID, proof of eligibility for EBT benefits, and, of course, your EBT card.
We will learn the details of whether Subway takes EBT cards or not. Stay till the end if you are interested in learning more!
Do All Subway Locations Accept EBT?
Not all Subway locations accept EBT. It depends on each Subway’s franchise and the state. Not all Subways participate in the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP).
Therefore, even if you are eligible to use EBT, the Subway location you intend to visit might be outside the RMP.
Does Subway Take Food Stamps in California?
It all depends on the specific Subway you intend to visit.
Not all Subway in California accept food stamps as a payment method, and it also depends on the RMP, meaning that a particular Subway franchise is part of the Restaurant Meals Program.
For the most accurate details on whether they accept food stamps, you must ask that particular Subway where you want to take food from.
How To Use EBT Cards At Subway?
You can use your EBT card at Subway, like your debit or credit card. Since an EBT card is a physical card, it grants you access to the SNAP benefits, previously known as ‘food stamps.’
Remember that you should always check first if the Subway where you want to purchase food must accept an EBT card.
Another important thing you must always know is that Subway only allows you to use your EBT card in-store.
Note: Before making your Subway purchase, check your EBT card balance before paying for your meal using the card.
Now that all of the abovementioned is settled, here are the basic steps on how to use your EBT card:
- Start by ordering your meal as usual.
- Tell the cashier that you want to pay with your EBT card.
- After ordering, slide your EBT card through the credit card terminal.
- Select the card type; in this case, choose ‘EBT.’ (if you decide on a ‘debit card’ or ‘credit card,’ the transaction will be declined).
- Wait till the terminal processes the card details.
- Enter your pin.
Subway will deduct the total of your meal order from your SNAP balance, just like it would deduct money from your regular debit/credit cards.
Also, remember that if your EBT card hasn’t been used in over a year or has been stolen, you might be unable to use it as it becomes invalid. In that case, you have to apply for a new one.
What Can You Buy With An EBT Card At Subway?
When using an EBT card at Subway, you must know that the primary limitation is that it can be used to purchase food meant to be prepared and eaten at home.
However, some Subways participate in programs that allow a bit more flexibility, so here is what you can typically buy there when using the EBT card:
- Bread and cereals
- Cold sandwiches
- Salads
- Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt
- Red meat like steak, ribs, and ground beef
- Desserts like cookies, brownies, and ice cream
- Soft drinks like Pepsi and Sprite and energy drinks like Red Bull
- Pork items like bacon, sausages, chops and tenderloin
- Snack crackers and chips
- Chicken meat
- Fruits and vegetables
Which Items Are Excluded To Buy With An EBT Card At Subway?
Hot food items are usually not included and are not eligible for purchases with an EBT card at Subway. By hot food items, we mean hot sandwiches, hot soups, or pizzas.
However, this may only be the case at some Subway locations, and exceptions might exist. You can always ask Subway’s salesperson at the cashier for the most accurate information.
What Are The Requirements To Use EBT Card At Subway?
There are two key requirements when it comes to using an EBT card at Subway that you should take into consideration:
01. Eligibility To Use SNAP Benefits
The overall qualifications to use these benefits are being 60 years or older, homeless, disabled, a spouse of a SNAP client, or eligible for the Restaurant Meal Program.
02. Participation in The Restaurant Meals Program (RMP)
Subway accepts EBT payments in state participation. EBT cards are currently accepted at certain Arizona, California, and Rhode Island locations.
What Are The Restrictions of EBT Card At Subway?
There are a few restrictions to how an EBT card works, so here is what you’ll need to know about using an EBT card at Subway:
- Not all Subways accept EBT cards, which can vary by state and individual stores.
- The EBT cards are meant for buying food items, and at Subway, this refers to purchasing cold subs and other types of food that could be prepared at home; the restrictions are primarily when it comes to prepared food that is hot or ready-to eat immediately in the store.
- In some states, a special program (Restaurant Meals Program—RMS) allows certain individuals to buy prepared meals at restaurants; this means that if Subway participates in that program, those with an EBT card are eligible to purchase hot subs and other normally restricted items.
Can You Pay With EBT Cards on The Subway App?
Unfortunately, you can’t. Subway only allows EBT Payment for in-store purchases.
You must use a different payment method, such as credit, debit, or contactless, and use the official Subway website or the Subway app.
Final Thoughts
The key takeaway from this article is that, yes, Subway takes EBT payments. However, that applies only in the states that are part of the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP).
Also, as mentioned above, you must always remember that there are some restrictions to what kind of food you can get when paying with an EBT card.
