Imagine this—you’re in line at Subway, craving your favourite footlong, and you wonder, “Can I pay for this with my EBT card?” Well, the answer is: yes and no.
Subway, that beloved sandwich spot, does accept EBT, but there are some hoops to jump through, and it’s not as simple as just swiping your card everywhere.
EBT is typically used by individuals receiving SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits to purchase food items.
However, not all Subway restaurants accept EBT, and the rules can vary depending on your location.
Does Subway Accept EBT?
Yes, but only at specific locations, and there’s a catch. The magic key here is something called the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP), and not every state has it.
Even in states that do, not all Subways jump on the bandwagon.
So, if you live in one of the lucky states (more on that in a minute), you might be able to use your EBT card for those cold subs—unless you qualify for hot meals under the RMP.
Where and When Can You Use EBT at Subway?
Subway locations that accept EBT are usually found in states that participate in the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP).
The RMP is a special provision within the SNAP program that allows eligible individuals—primarily the elderly, disabled, or homeless—to use their EBT benefits to purchase hot, prepared meals at participating restaurants.
To qualify for the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP), you must be a SNAP recipient in a state that offers the program.
Additionally, all household members must meet one of the following criteria:
- Be 60 years or older.
- Have a disability, such as receiving disability payments or retirement benefits due to a permanent disability.
- Be homeless.
- Be the spouse of a SNAP recipient who is eligible for the RMP.
States with active RMPs where Subway accept EBT:
List of Subway restaurants that accept EBT under the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) in specific states.
Arizona
- Phoenix
- Subway at 7th Ave & Indian School Rd
- Subway at Camelback Rd & 19th Ave
- Tucson
- Subway at Broadway Blvd & Campbell Ave
- Subway at Valencia Rd & 12th Ave
- Flagstaff
- Subway at E Butler Ave & Lone Tree Rd
California
- Los Angeles County
- Subway at Sunset Blvd & Vine St
- Subway at Santa Monica Blvd & Western Ave
- San Diego County
- Subway at University Ave & College Ave
- Subway at Market St & 43rd St
- San Francisco
- Subway at Mission St & 24th St
- Subway at Market St & Castro St
Rhode Island
- Providence
- Subway at Broad St & Public St
- Subway at Westminster St & Union St
- Cranston
- Subway at Park Ave & Gansett Ave
- Subway at Reservoir Ave & Elmwood Ave
If you live in one of these states, you might find Subway locations that accept EBT, but it’s important to note that not all Subways in these states participate.
This is because Subway restaurants are franchised, meaning the decision to accept EBT is made on a store-by-store basis.
Therefore, it’s always a good idea to check with your local Subway before attempting to use your EBT card.
What Can You Purchase with EBT at Subway?
Here’s where things get a little tricky. If you’re approved to use EBT at Subway, you can generally buy cold food items, like sandwiches, salads, and a few snacks. But you’re out of luck if you’re hoping for a hot meatball sub—unless you qualify under the RMP.
A few examples of things you can snag with EBT:
- Cold sandwiches
- Salads
- Chips or cookies
- Non-alcoholic drinks
But hold up, don’t try to splurge on that guacamole or extra bacon because premium add-ons and gift cards are a no-go with EBT.
Tips for EBT Users at Subway
- Double-check: Before you set out, make sure your local Subway is part of the EBT acceptance crowd.
- Ask what’s on the menu: Some locations only allow EBT for certain items.
- Have a backup: Just in case the card gets declined or doesn’t cover what you want to order.
Conclusion
While Subway does accept EBT at certain locations, it’s primarily limited to states with an active Restaurant Meals Program and specific franchisee participation.
Subway can be a convenient option for EBT users, but like any good sandwich, it’s all about the ingredients.
Location, timing, and eligibility are key factors. Subway’s participation in the EBT program is mostly tied to states with the RMP, and even then, only select locations allow it. But for those who qualify, it can be a nice way to enjoy a fresh meal from a favorite spot.
FAQs:
Q1. Can I use my EBT card at any Subway location?
No, not all Subway locations accept EBT. Only certain franchises in states with an active Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) may accept EBT.
Even within these states, it’s essential to check with the specific Subway location to confirm whether they participate in the program.
Q2. Which states have Subway locations that accept EBT?
Subway locations that accept EBT are typically found in states that participate in the Restaurant Meals Program.
As of 2024, these states include California, Arizona, Rhode Island, Illinois, Maryland, and Michigan. Within these states, only certain Subway restaurants may accept EBT.
Q3. What items can I buy with EBT at Subway?
If a Subway location accepts EBT, you can generally purchase cold food items such as cold sandwiches, salads, and snacks like chips and cookies.
If you qualify for the RMP, you may also be able to buy hot, prepared meals.
However, certain items like bottled drinks, premium add-ons, and gift cards are not eligible for purchase with EBT.
Q4. Can I use EBT for online orders or the Subway app?
No, EBT cannot be used for online orders or through the Subway app. EBT can only be used for in-store purchases at participating locations.
Q5. What should I do if my EBT card is declined at Subway?
If your EBT card is declined at Subway, first check if the location accepts EBT.
If they do and the card is still declined, ensure that you have sufficient funds on your card and that the items you are trying to purchase are eligible under the EBT program.
You might also want to carry an alternative payment method as a backup.
Q6. Does Subway accept EBT in California?
Yes, Subway accepts EBT at select locations in California. California participates in the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP), which allows eligible SNAP recipients to use their EBT cards at participating restaurants, including some Subway locations.
However, not all Subway restaurants in California accept EBT, so it’s important to verify with the specific location before making a purchase.
Q7. Does Subway accept EBT in Oregon?
No, Subway does not generally accept EBT in Oregon. Oregon does not have an active Restaurant Meals Program (RMP), which is required for fast food restaurants like Subway to accept EBT for hot meals.
Therefore, most, if not all, Subway locations in Oregon do not accept EBT.
Q8. Does Subway accept EBT in Minnesota?
No, Subway does not accept EBT in Minnesota. Minnesota does not participate in the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP), so EBT cannot be used at fast food restaurants like Subway in the state.
Q9. Does Subway accept EBT cards?
Yes, Subway accepts EBT cards, but only at specific locations and under certain conditions.
Acceptance is primarily dependent on whether the Subway location is in a state that participates in the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP), such as California, Arizona, or Rhode Island.
Even within these states, only certain Subway franchises may accept EBT, and they typically only allow the purchase of cold food items unless the customer qualifies for the RMP.
Always check with the specific Subway location to confirm EBT acceptance.
