Does Popeyes Take EBT in 2024? Everything You Need to Know
Popeyes continues to accept Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards in 2024, allowing millions of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients to purchase food at participating locations. But does every Popeyes accept EBT? Can you only buy certain items? Let‘s take a deeper look at how EBT works at Popeyes nationwide.
A Brief History of SNAP and EBT
First introduced as the Food Stamp Program in 1939, SNAP provides nutritional assistance benefits to supplement the food budget of low-income individuals and families. SNAP aims to combat hunger and improve nutrition and health.
The transition from paper food stamps to EBT cards began in the 1990s and was completed by 2004. EBT cards function like debit cards, allowing recipients to discreetly access their SNAP benefits. In 2022, over 41 million Americans received SNAP benefits with an average monthly benefit of $231 per household.
SNAP Restaurant Meals Program Allows EBT at Select Restaurants
While most EBT benefits are used at grocery stores, some states participate in the SNAP Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) which allows restaurants to accept EBT payments. However, only around $8 billion of the $80 billion in total SNAP benefits were spent at restaurants in 2021.
For restaurants like Popeyes to qualify for EBT, they must offer discounted meals, have patron education on nutrition, and help expand food access in underserved areas.
Which States Currently Allow Popeyes to Accept EBT?
As of 2023, Popeyes locations in the following 9 states accept EBT as part of the SNAP Restaurant Meals Program:
- Arizona – Maricopa and Pima counties
- California – Most counties statewide
- Hawaii – Honolulu, Hawaii, and Maui counties
- Illinois – Select counties
- Maryland – Select counties
- Michigan – Select counties
- Missouri – Statewide
- New York – Select counties
- Rhode Island – Statewide
The eligible counties and cities vary within each state, so be sure to check if your local Popeyes accepts EBT. Some states like Alabama, Florida, and Texas have proposed adding restaurants to their EBT programs but have not yet done so.
State-by-State Breakdown of Popeyes EBT Details
| State | Full State or Select Areas | Additional Details |
| Arizona | Maricopa and Pima counties only | Approved restaurants list by county available |
| California | Available statewide except: Alpine, Sierra, and Trinity counties | Check local restaurant for acceptance |
| Hawaii | Honolulu, Hawaii, and Maui counties only | 80% of SNAP must be used at grocery stores |
| Illinois | Select counties only | List of approved ZIP codes available |
| Maryland | Select counties only | List of approved restaurants available |
| Michigan | Select counties only | Click here for participating restaurant list |
| Missouri | Statewide | All SNAP authorized restaurants accept EBT |
| New York | Select counties only | nyc.gov has a list of eligible restaurants |
| Rhode Island | Statewide | All SNAP authorized restaurants accept EBT |
The Pros and Cons of EBT for Fast Food Purchases
Allowing EBT benefits to be used at fast food chains like Popeyes has advantages and disadvantages.
Potential Benefits:
- Provides quick, affordable meals for busy families
- Allows recipients with disabilities to easily access prepared food
- Brings in revenue for restaurants struggling financially
Potential Drawbacks:
- Possible misuse of benefits on less healthy fast food items
- Higher costs compared to cooking at home
- Restaurants clustered in wealthier zip codes may limit access
To decide if using EBT at Popeyes fits your budget, be sure to compare prices on frequent purchases like chicken meals and combo deals against grocery items like chicken breasts and frozen vegetables. Consider convenience but don‘t regularly spend more on fast food than you would on groceries.
How to Use EBT at Participating Popeyes Locations
Using your EBT card at Popeyes is quick and easy as long as your local restaurant accepts EBT. Simply follow these steps:
- When ordering, let the cashier know you will be paying with EBT.
- Insert or swipe your EBT card in the point-of-sale terminal.
- Enter your 4-digit PIN number.
- Verify the purchase amount is correct.
- Take your receipt showing the remaining balance.
You can also check your balance by asking the cashier or calling the number on the back of your EBT card. There are no fees, minimums, or caps when using EBT at Popeyes.
Get the Most Out of Your SNAP Benefits
To make the most of your SNAP benefits, budget wisely and utilize all resources available:
- prioritize nutritious essentials like produce, eggs, milk, meat
- buy generics instead of name brands when possible
- use coupons and loyalty programs to lower grocery costs
- only occasionally use EBT at fast food as a time-saving convenience
- research eligibility for WIC, school lunch, food banks, and other programs
With some diligence, you can stretch your SNAP dollars while still enjoying an occasional fast food treat!
Popeyes Remains an EBT Option Where Approved by States
In summary, Popeyes accepts EBT cards for in-store purchases at participating locations in 9 states as of 2023. EBT policies vary by state, so reach out to your local Popeyes to confirm or consult your state‘s SNAP restaurant listings. With budget-friendly chicken meals and sides, Popeyes can be an accessible EBT-friendly option when used responsibly along with grocery shopping.
