Does Wendy’s accept EBT? If you are an EBT cardholder, you may be curious whether you can use your benefits at this popular fast-food chain.
This article will explain whether Wendy’s takes EBT and how the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) operates. In addition, you will also discover what you can buy at restaurants with EBT and how to maximize your EBT benefits in California.
What is EBT?
Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) is not a specific program; nonetheless, many people use it to refer to SNAP, also known as CalFresh in California.
The government initiative gives monthly food assistance to qualified low-income individuals and households to purchase foodstuffs and improve their nutritional needs.
EBT is a benefit delivery system that enables CalWORKs, CalFresh, and other program participants to use a card similar to a debit card to receive food and cash benefits. Moreover, EBT users can use their benefit cards to make purchases online at select stores.
EBT in California is administered by the California Department of Social Services (CDSS), with technical assistance provided by the Office of Technology and Solutions Integration (OTSI).
Suppose you qualify for government programs such as SNAP or TANF (cash benefits). In that case, you will obtain an EBT card within 30 days after submitting an authorized application (or 7 days with expedited support).
Once you have set up your PIN, you can use your EBT card like a debit card at any authorized food retailer that accepts EBT payments. Please note that you can use your card in other states; however, moving necessitates reapplying in your new state.
>>> Also read: Can I Get Food Stamps If I Live With My Parents California?
Does Wendy’s Accept EBT in California?
Only select Wendy’s locations in certain California counties accept SNAP EBT cards as a form of payment.
This is due to the fact that, while SNAP is a federal program managed by the United States Department of Agriculture, each state is responsible for its own implementation and policies. Not to mention, Wendy’s participates in the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP), not in all 7,000+ locations.
Unluckily, Wendy’s does not publish an online list of its locations accepting EBT cards, so you should call ahead or consult your local benefits office for more information.
What Can You Get at Wendy’s with EBT?
If you already know “Does Wendy’s accept EBT near me?”, so what can you get? Fortunately, you may order whatever you want from the menu at a restaurant that accepts EBT.
“Any meal offered at that restaurant can be purchased,” states Andrew Cheyne, managing director of public policy at the California-based non-profit GRACE/End Child Poverty CA. Also, “Not necessarily the discounted meal, if that’s not what the customer wants.”
Furthermore, while RMP permits recipients to buy hot meals, this does not imply that you can use this benefit at any store that takes EBT. The program has been specially authorized for restaurant payments.
How to Use Your EBT Card at Wendy’s?
If you are eligible for the RMP, you may utilize EBT cards to pay like a credit or debit card. Furthermore, the state will specially code your EBT card to be used at participating eateries.
To pay for a meal, provide your EBT to the restaurant, and it will be processed using point-of-sale equipment designed to accept this payment method. You must have your PIN and enough money in your EBT account to complete the transaction.
Notably, EBT cards issued to SNAP participants who are ineligible for the RMP will be refused when processed by a restaurant.
>>> Also read: Can I Get Food Stamps While On Unemployment In California? Guide 2025
How to Maximize EBT Benefits in California?
Aside from utilizing an EBT card for meals, there is a helpful way to maximize the value of your government benefits. If you get CalFresh benefits in California, you are automatically eligible for the Lifeline Assistance program.
This federal effort assists low-income individuals and households in obtaining vital communication services, such as phone and internet, by providing monthly discounts and free equipment via approved providers such as AirTalk Wireless.
Furthermore, when you apply for the Lifeline through AirTalk Wireless, you will receive unlimited call, text, and data plans. These exclusive benefits let you stay connected without worrying about monthly payments.
If you want to receive a free phone EBT California, follow these quick steps:
Step 1: Go to AirTalk Wireless
Head over to airtalkwireless.com, then type in your ZIP code to check if Lifeline service is available in your area (Use 90001 if you are applying from California.)
After that, click “Apply Now” to begin your application.
Step 2: Pick the Plan
In this step, you can choose between the two options:
- Plans with Device Discounts (Lifeline Standard, Plus, Premium, or Unlimited Plans) – Get a free or discounted smartphone and free monthly service including talk, text, and data.
- Data Boost Plan (Bring Your Own Device)– Keep your current phone and enjoy the same free monthly service.
Step 3: Choose Your Device
AirTalk Wireless offers various free phones from well-known brands like Apple, Samsung, Motorola, etc, to qualifying applicants. Free and discounted tablets are also available.
However, you should check the available selections regularly since devices are supplied depending on supply, so the price and availability might change often.
Below are some of the best phone models:
Step 4: Upload Your Documents
If your state does not automatically verify your eligibility, you will need to submit documents proving your income level or participation in a qualifying government program.
Step 5: Submit and Wait for Approval
The California Lifeline Program Administrator will assess your application. Once approved, your free phone and SIM kit will be shipped within 7 – 10 business days.
Conclusion
So, does Wendy’s accept EBT in California? Generally, only several Wendy’s locations in California counties take EBT cards. While dining options may be limited, you can still maximize your EBT benefits in other ways, such as applying for the Lifeline program through a reputable service provider. Visit AirTalk Wireless today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Wendy’s accept EBT in Illinois?
The new SNAP Restaurant Meals Program in Illinois allows qualified people who receive EBT benefits to use their EBT card benefits to get hot meals from restaurants that take EBT. However, acceptability varies depending on location.
Does Wendy’s accept EBT in New York?
Currently, Wendy’s does not take EBT cards to make food purchases in New York. This fast-food chain participates in the Restaurant Meals Program in a few states, including California, but not New York.
Does Wendy’s accept EBT in Ohio?
The headquarters of Wendy’s is in Ohio, but the state does not participate in the Restaurant Meals Program. Hence, EBT will not be accepted there.
Does Chipotle take EBT?
Chipotle does not take SNAP EBT cards at any of its locations.
