It’s a common question for individuals relying on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): Does Subway Take Food Stamps? The answer is yes, Subway does accept EBT cards, which are used to distribute SNAP benefits, but with certain important conditions and limitations. Whether you can use your food stamps at Subway largely depends on your location and the specific Subway store’s participation in the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP).
The Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) is a crucial factor determining if you can use your EBT card at Subway for prepared meals. RMP is a state-option program that allows SNAP recipients who might have difficulty preparing meals themselves – such as the elderly, disabled, or homeless – to purchase hot, ready-to-eat food at authorized restaurants using their SNAP benefits. Eligibility for RMP is typically extended to:
- Individuals aged 60 years or older
- People with disabilities
- Individuals experiencing homelessness
- Spouses of SNAP clients who meet RMP eligibility criteria
Currently, Subway locations that accept EBT for hot meals are primarily found in states participating in the RMP. According to reports, California, Arizona, and Rhode Island are among the states where select Subway restaurants are authorized to accept EBT payments under the RMP. If you reside in these states and meet the RMP eligibility requirements, you have a higher chance of being able to use your SNAP benefits at participating Subway outlets.
However, even if you don’t live in an RMP state, you might still be able to use your EBT card at some Subway restaurants. Outside of the RMP, some Subway locations may, at the discretion of the store manager, accept EBT for cold food items. This means you could potentially purchase cold sandwiches, salads, or other eligible cold food products with your SNAP benefits, even if hot meals are not covered. It’s important to note that this is not a standard policy and is dependent on the individual store’s decision. It’s less common to find Subways accepting EBT outside of RMP states, but it’s always worth checking with your local store.
It’s also critical to understand that Subway only accepts EBT for in-store purchases. If you are planning to order Subway through their website or mobile app, you will need to use a different payment method, such as a debit card or credit card. EBT payments are not currently processed for online or mobile orders at Subway.
When using your EBT card at Subway, you can purchase a variety of SNAP-eligible food items. Generally, these include:
- Bread and cereals: Essential Subway roll and various bread options.
- Red meat and pork products: Many Subway sandwich fillings like roast beef and ham.
- Chicken and other poultry: Chicken breast, turkey, and other poultry-based fillings.
- Dairy products: Cheese slices and other dairy components used in sandwiches.
- Fruits and vegetables: Lettuce, tomatoes, onions, peppers, and other fresh produce.
- Cold sandwiches and salads: Pre-made cold subs and salads available at Subway.
- Soft drinks and energy drinks: Beverages to accompany your meal.
- Snack crackers and chips: Side items that can be purchased with SNAP.
- Dessert items: Cookies and other permissible dessert options.
To confirm whether a specific Subway location accepts EBT and whether it participates in the RMP for hot food items or accepts EBT for cold food items, it is always best to contact the store directly. Calling your local Subway or inquiring in person will provide the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding their EBT acceptance policies.
