Have you ever been on the go with an empty stomach and wondered, Can I get Subway with my EBT card? If you’re on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), or food stamps, you’ve probably wondered where you can quickly and cheaply get a bite to eat with your benefits. Well, wonder no more. A lot of people wonder, Does Subway take EBT?
The answer? Maybe, but maybe not. Let’s drill it down so you know where, when, and how to use EBT at Subway. Take a seat, perhaps a snack, and let’s get into it.
Does Subway Accept EBT?
The short answer is: Yes, Subway takes EBT, but only at select locations and with certain requirements.
EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) is most commonly utilized to buy groceries. But some fast-food restaurants, such as Subway, are involved in the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP). This program permits qualified individuals to purchase prepared foods using their EBT card. But not all Subway restaurants are participating.
Let’s take a closer look at what you should know.
What Is the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP)?
The Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) is a state-funded program within SNAP that permits qualified individuals to spend EBT on hot, prepared meals. It is particularly useful for those with limited or no access to cooking facilities or capability at home.
To be eligible, a person must typically be:
- Aged (60 years and older)
- Disabled
- Homeless
- Receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
As RMP is not provided to all states, not all Subway accepts EBT. Subway restaurants in those states that offer RMP only will permit you to use your EBT benefits for buying food.
Which States Allow EBT at Subway?
As of 2025, only a few states have the Restaurant Meals Program, and not every Subway in those states accept EBT. Here’s where you can possibly use your EBT card at Subway:
- California – Most Subway locations are involved.
- Arizona – A few Subways take EBT under RMP.
- Michigan – Some Subway locations accept EBT.
- Illinois – Some regions have RMP-approved Subways.
- Rhode Island – A few accept EBT.
- Maryland – Locations participating.
- Virginia – Limited participation.
If your state isn’t included, that’s because you can’t use EBT at Subway in your state—yet. But it never hurts to check with your local SNAP office for updates.
How to Find a Subway That Accepts EBT?
Not all Subways in an RMP-approved state will take EBT. To locate one in your area, follow these steps:
- Use the USDA SNAP Retailer Locator – This web-based tool, accessible on the USDA website, enables you to find businesses that accept EBT by typing in your zip code or address. It assists you in finding participating Subway stores in your area.
- Check Subway’s Site or Call In Advance – While Subway’s company website will not necessarily indicate whether every participating EBT restaurant will be listed, calling ahead might save you a little time and confirm whether the restaurant does carry out the program.
- See Your State SNAP Website – More states now make available a listing of the Restaurant Meals Program taking part in restaurants. Referring to these can also provide the current information.
- Check for Store Signage – Certain participating Subways have signs on the door or by the checkout that indicate they accept EBT.
- Ask at the Counter – If you happen to be in a Subway, just ask a worker if they accept EBT prior to ordering.
By doing these things, you can easily determine if a Subway in your area is a participating Subway and part of the EBT program, allowing you to make educated decisions before going out.
What Can You Purchase at Subway with EBT?
If a Subway restaurant does take EBT, what can you really buy? Well, here’s what’s typically permitted:
- Subs, sandwiches, and wraps
- Salads
- Soups
- Drinks (non-alcoholic)
And what’s NOT included?
- Chips, cookies, or snacks (other than part of a meal deal)
- Bottled sodas, teas, or energy drinks (other than as part of a combo meal)
- Gift cards or non-food items
Why Doesn’t Every Subway Accept EBT?
This is an excellent question. Since EBT was created primarily to be used on groceries, in most cases, it does not pay for hot, prepared meals. The lone exception is where a state allows participation in the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP).
Most Subways are independently owned franchises, so each Subway’s owner controls whether or not to seek approval for RMP. That’s why some accept EBT while others do not—even within the same city.
What If Subway Near Me Doesn’t Accept EBT?
If the Subway near you doesn’t take EBT, don’t fret. You have alternatives:
- Use EBT to purchase groceries and assemble sandwiches at home – You can obtain fresh bread, deli meats, vegetables, and condiments.
- Locate other restaurants that take EBT – Some fast-food places, such as Domino’s, Taco Bell, and KFC, are part of the RMP.
- Seek out grocery stores that offer ready-to-eat meals – Several grocery stores carry pre-prepared sandwiches and salads that meet SNAP standards.
Will More Subway Locations Accept EBT in the Future?
Maybe. As awareness about food access continues to grow, more states may become part of the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) in the future. If so, more Subway stores may begin to accept EBT.
To keep informed, check:
- Your state’s SNAP office website
- The USDA SNAP Retailer Locator
- Subway’s official website or customer service
Finally, Does Subway Accept EBT?
So, let’s get back to the question at hand—does Subway accept EBT? The answer is still: Yes, but only in certain locations and states that are part of the Restaurant Meals Program.
If you live in an authorized state such as California, Arizona, or Michigan, you could have the possibility to indulge in a new Subway sandwich with your EBT card. Otherwise, take a peek at other EBT-accepted fast-food eateries or even applying your benefits for meals within a grocery store setting.
What’s Next? Now that you understand the ins and outs of EBT acceptance at Subway, why not stop by your local one? If you enjoyed this guide, pass it along to someone who may need this information, and let’s make food accessible to all.
What do you think? Would you like to see more fast-food restaurants accept EBT? Let’s discuss in the comments!
