Does Subway Take EBT? A State-by-State Look at SNAP and Restaurant Meals

Does subway take ebt is a common question for individuals and families utilizing Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. The answer isn't a simple yes or no. Subway can accept Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards, but this is primarily possible under specific conditions, mainly through a state-run initiative called the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) and only at participating restaurant locations.  

Whether someone can use their EBT card at Subway depends on several factors: the state they reside in, whether that specific Subway franchise is authorized for the RMP, and if the EBT cardholder meets the RMP eligibility criteria.

Quick Facts: EBT and SNAP Benefits

Understanding EBT and SNAP is key to knowing how Subway might accept these benefits.

What is an EBT Card?

Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) is an electronic system. It allows SNAP participants to pay for food using their benefits, functioning much like a debit card. SNAP benefits are typically loaded onto this card monthly. When a participant shops at a SNAP-authorized store, their EBT account is debited to cover the food purchase.

What is SNAP?

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is the largest federal nutrition assistance program in the U.S. It provides nutrition benefits to eligible, low-income individuals and families to purchase healthy food. The USDA's Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) administers SNAP federally, while state agencies handle local operations, including eligibility and benefit issuance. This federal-state partnership means some rules, like the RMP, can vary by state.

The Key: Understanding the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP)

The Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) is the main avenue for SNAP recipients to use EBT benefits at restaurants like Subway.

What is the RMP?

The RMP is a state-level option within SNAP administration. It allows certain SNAP clients, who may struggle with meal preparation or lack permanent housing for food storage and cooking, to buy prepared meals at authorized restaurants using their SNAP EBT benefits. The program aims to ensure vulnerable populations can access hot and prepared meals.

Who Qualifies for the RMP?

Eligibility for RMP is typically limited. While states can refine criteria, federal guidelines target :  

• Elderly individuals: Generally, those aged 60 or older, and their spouses.
• Individuals with disabilities: Those receiving disability payments or benefits due to a permanent disability, and their spouses.
• Homeless individuals: SNAP recipients without a fixed, regular nighttime residence or those in shelters or similar situations.

In many cases, all household members must meet one of these criteria (or be a spouse of an eligible individual) for RMP eligibility. Individuals usually don't need to apply separately for RMP; if they qualify and their state has an RMP, their EBT card is often automatically coded by the state agency.

Subway's EBT Policy: Participation in RMP

Subway's EBT card acceptance is almost exclusively tied to its participation in the RMP in states offering this program. Not every Subway, even in an RMP state, accepts EBT. Individual franchises must apply for and receive authorization from both the state and the USDA's FNS. Participation is decided on a restaurant-by-restaurant basis.  

A nuance exists for some Subways within larger retail stores like gas stations. If the main business is SNAP-authorized for groceries, one might buy certain cold, pre-packaged SNAP-eligible items from an embedded Subway with EBT, separate from RMP. This usually applies to items like cold sandwiches for off-premises consumption and differs from RMP, which allows for prepared meals, potentially including hot items, from standalone, RMP-authorized Subways.

States Where You Might Use EBT at Subway via RMP

The ability to use EBT at Subway depends on the state operating an RMP and specific Subway locations being authorized participants. According to the USDA, the following states have an RMP, though availability can be limited to certain areas within these states :  

• Arizona: RMP is active; some Subways participate.  
• California: RMP is active; Subway participation is documented in various counties.  
• Illinois: RMP is active but limited to Cook and Franklin Counties. Local lists should be checked for Subway participation.  
• Maryland: RMP is active. State lists or 211 Maryland should be consulted for Subway's status.  
• Massachusetts: RMP is active. State lists are needed to verify Subway participation.  
• Michigan: RMP is active; Subway is a noted participant.  
• New York: RMP is active; specific Subways are approved in certain counties (e.g., Erie County).  
• Rhode Island: RMP is active; specific Subways are listed as participants.  
• Virginia: RMP is active; some Subways are listed as participating.  

Remember, participating states and restaurants can change.  

Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) States and Potential Subway EBT Acceptance

Finding Subway Locations That Accept EBT

To find specific Subway locations accepting EBT through RMP:

1. Use the USDA SNAP Retailer Locator: This online tool helps find authorized retailers. An update allows filtering by "Restaurant Meals Program". 
2. Check Official State RMP Participant Lists: Many RMP states maintain lists on their agency websites.
   • New York: County-by-county lists.  
   • Rhode Island: PDF list.  
   • Virginia: VRMP locations webpage.  
   • Illinois: DHS lists for approved counties.  
   • Maryland: DHS provides a list.  
   • Massachusetts: DTA lists approved restaurants/food trucks.  
   • Michigan: DHHS links its list in an RMP FAQ.  
3. Look for In-Store Signage: RMP restaurants usually display a sign, perhaps with "Participating Restaurant: SNAP Restaurant Meals Program" or a "Fork & Knife" logo.  
4. Call Ahead: It's always wise to call the specific Subway to confirm current RMP participation and EBT acceptance.

What Menu Items Can Be Purchased with EBT at Subway under RMP?

Standard SNAP rules usually bar "hot foods" or foods for on-premises consumption at typical retailers. However, RMP is an exception for eligible participants, allowing purchase of prepared meals, including hot and cold items.

At a participating Subway under RMP, eligible SNAP recipients can generally buy:

• Sandwiches: Cold and, as part of a prepared meal, toasted sandwiches.
• Salads: Prepared salads.
• Non-alcoholic beverages: Soft drinks, bottled water sold with the meal.

Items like alcohol and tobacco are never SNAP-eligible. While some discussions mention a "cold sub loophole" for general EBT , this is less critical under RMP, which explicitly allows prepared meals. Confirm with the cashier if unsure about an item.

How to Use Your EBT Card at a Participating Subway

Using an EBT card at an RMP Subway is like using it at a grocery store:

Before Ordering:

1. Confirm Participation: Ensure the Subway is an authorized RMP participant (see Section 6).
2. Check Balance: Know your EBT balance via your state's EBT portal (e.g., ebtEDGE.com), mobile app, or card's customer service number.
3. Inform Cashier: Before ordering, tell the cashier you're RMP-eligible and will use EBT.

During the Transaction:

1. Processing: The cashier processes your order. Swipe your EBT card and enter your PIN.
2. Verification: The EBT system automatically verifies RMP eligibility and funds. If ineligible or funds are insufficient, the transaction is declined. Restaurants don't determine RMP eligibility; the system does.
3. Receipt: You'll get a receipt showing meal cost and remaining SNAP balance.

Important Reminders for EBT Use at Restaurants (under RMP)

Keep these points in mind for RMP EBT use:

• RMP Eligibility is Often Automatic: If you meet state RMP criteria (elderly, disabled, homeless) and get SNAP, you usually don't need to apply separately. Your state SNAP agency should code your EBT card if you qualify. Contact your local SNAP office if you believe you're eligible but your card isn't working.
• No Increase in SNAP Benefits: RMP participation doesn't increase your monthly SNAP benefits. Budget carefully if buying restaurant meals.
• Tips and Delivery Fees Not Covered: SNAP benefits can't pay for tips or delivery fees. Use another payment method for these.
• Potential Discounts: Some states (e.g., New York, Illinois) may offer discounts (like 10%) on RMP meals. Check your state's RMP guidelines.
• Take-Out is Often Permitted: Generally, RMP meals can be take-out. Specific rules (like required seating) can vary by state. Illinois allows take-out; Massachusetts has had stricter rules for restaurants vs. food trucks. Verify your state's policy if concerned.

Official Resources for More Information

For accurate, current information on SNAP and RMP:

• USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS):
  • General SNAP Info
  • Official RMP Details
  • SNAP Retailer Locator (includes RMP filter)
• State Human Services or Social Services Websites: Search online for " Restaurant Meals Program" for specific info, eligibility, and participant lists.
• EBT Card Customer Service: The number on your EBT card's back can help with balance inquiries and RMP eligibility. Many states also use online portals like(https://www.ebtEDGE.com) for account management and RMP status checks.

Frequently Asked Questions