Does Popeyes Take EBT in 2025? Using SNAP Benefits

If you’re a SNAP recipient craving Popeyes’ crispy fried chicken or spicy Cajun fries, you might be wondering, “Does Popeyes take EBT?” The answer is yes, but only at select locations participating in the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP).

What Is EBT and the Restaurant Meals Program?

Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) is a debit card system used to distribute Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, helping low-income individuals and families purchase food. While SNAP typically covers groceries for home preparation, the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) allows eligible recipients to buy hot, prepared meals at approved restaurants like Popeyes in certain states.

The RMP is designed for:

• Seniors (age 60+)
• Disabled individuals
• Homeless individuals
• Spouses of those in the above categories

However, not all states or Popeyes locations participate in RMP, so let’s explore the details.

Does Popeyes Take EBT?

Yes, Popeyes accepts EBT at select locations in states with an active RMP. As of 2025, only nine states participate in the RMP: Arizona, California, Illinois, Maryland, Michigan, New York, Rhode Island, Virginia, and parts of Nevada. Even in these states, only specific Popeyes restaurants are authorized to accept EBT, often due to franchisee decisions or local regulations. For example, in California, only about 15 of the 3,705 Popeyes locations nationwide accept EBT, primarily in Los Angeles and San Diego counties.

Why Don’t All Popeyes Locations Accept EBT?

Not all Popeyes restaurants participate in RMP due to:

• State Restrictions: Only states with RMP allow restaurants to accept EBT for hot meals.
• Franchise Decisions: Individual Popeyes owners must opt into RMP and complete paperwork, which some find burdensome.
• Compliance Requirements: Restaurants must offer discounted meals and meet USDA standards, deterring some locations.

Which Popeyes Locations Accept EBT?

Here’s a snapshot of known Popeyes locations accepting EBT through RMP (subject to change, so verify with the restaurant):

• California:
  • Los Angeles County: Select locations in Los Angeles, Compton, and Inglewood
  • San Diego County: Specific outlets in San Diego and Chula Vista
• Michigan:
  • Grand Rapids: Burton Village Popeyes
• New York:
  • Brooklyn: Select locations (check via state RMP lists)
• Arizona:
  • Phoenix: Limited locations
• Other RMP States: Check state-specific RMP lists for Illinois, Maryland, Rhode Island, Virginia, and Nevada.

To find a participating Popeyes near you:

1. Use the USDA SNAP Retailer Locator (available at snapretailerlocator.usda.gov).
2. Visit your state’s SNAP or RMP website for an updated list of approved restaurants.
3. Call your local Popeyes or look for EBT/RMP signage at the restaurant.

Who Qualifies to Use EBT at Popeyes?

To use EBT at Popeyes, you must:

1. Live in an RMP-participating state.
2. Be enrolled in SNAP and approved for RMP by your local social services agency (automatic for eligible groups in most states).
3. Be elderly (60+), disabled, or homeless, or the spouse of someone in these categories.
4. Purchase food at an RMP-approved Popeyes location.

Contact your local SNAP office or check your EBT account to confirm RMP enrollment.

What Can You Buy with EBT at Popeyes?

At RMP-approved Popeyes locations, you can use your EBT card to purchase any food item on the menu, including:

• Fried chicken (breasts, thighs, wings)
• Chicken sandwiches (classic or spicy)
• Cajun fries
• Mashed potatoes with gravy
• Biscuits
• Red beans and rice
• Seafood (shrimp, fish)
• Non-alcoholic beverages

Non-food items (e.g., merchandise, gift cards) are not eligible for EBT purchase. Unlike common misconceptions, you don’t have to buy discounted meals—any menu item is eligible as long as the location accepts EBT.

How to Use Your EBT Card at Popeyes

Using your EBT card at Popeyes is straightforward:

1. Verify RMP Participation: Confirm the Popeyes location accepts EBT.
2. Place Your Order: Choose your desired menu items.
3. Inform the Cashier: Let them know you’re paying with EBT.
4. Swipe Your Card: Insert or swipe your EBT card at the point-of-sale terminal.
5. Enter Your PIN: Input your 4-digit PIN.
6. Check the Amount: Verify the purchase amount and take your receipt, which shows your remaining balance.

Pro Tip: Check your EBT balance before ordering by calling the number on the back of your card or using your state’s EBT portal.

Troubleshooting EBT Transaction Issues

If your EBT transaction is declined at Popeyes, try these steps:

1. Check Your Balance: Ensure you have sufficient SNAP funds (call the EBT customer service number or check online).
2. Verify RMP Eligibility: Confirm with your SNAP caseworker that you’re enrolled in RMP.
3. Confirm Location Participation: Double-check that the Popeyes location is RMP-approved.
4. Contact Support: If issues persist, call your state’s EBT customer service or SNAP office for assistance.

Budgeting Tips for Using EBT at Popeyes

Since RMP doesn’t provide extra SNAP funds, restaurant meals can deplete your benefits faster than groceries. Maximize your benefits with these tips:

• Choose Value Meals: Opt for combo deals or family meals to get more food for your money.
• Use Coupons: Check the Popeyes mobile app or website for discounts and promotions.
• Compare Costs: Restaurant meals are pricier than groceries. For example, a Popeyes 8-piece chicken meal costs ~$25, while similar grocery items (chicken, sides) might cost ~$10 at a supermarket.
• Plan Purchases: Reserve EBT for occasional restaurant meals and prioritize groceries for daily needs.

Can EBT Use for Popeyes online orders or delivery?

No, EBT cannot be used for online orders or delivery from Popeyes, even at RMP-approved locations. The USDA’s Online Purchasing Pilot only allows EBT for grocery purchases, not hot meals or restaurant orders. You must visit a participating Popeyes in person to use EBT.

Alternatives if Your Local Popeyes Doesn’t Accept EBT

If your local Popeyes doesn’t participate in RMP or you’re in a non-RMP state, consider these options:

• Other RMP Restaurants: Chains like McDonald’s, KFC, Subway, Taco Bell, and Wendy’s may accept EBT at select locations in RMP states. Check your state’s RMP list.
• Grocery Stores: Use EBT for cold or unprepared foods at stores like Walmart, 7-Eleven, or Papa Murphy’s (e.g., take-and-bake pizza).
• Food Banks: Local food pantries can supplement your SNAP benefits.
• Propel App: Download the Propel app to find EBT-friendly retailers and manage benefits.

Check also: Does Popeyes Accept Apple Pay in 2025?

Common Myths About Using EBT at Popeyes

• Myth: You can only buy discounted meals with EBT at Popeyes.
  • Fact: You can purchase any food item on the menu at RMP-approved locations.
• Myth: All Popeyes locations accept EBT.
  • Fact: Only select locations in RMP states are authorized.
• Myth: RMP gives you extra SNAP funds for restaurants.
  • Fact: RMP uses your existing SNAP benefits, so budget wisely.

FAQs

Conclusion

Yes, Popeyes accepts EBT at select locations in RMP-participating states, offering SNAP recipients a convenient way to enjoy hot meals. However, eligibility, location participation, and budgeting are key factors to consider. Use the USDA SNAP Retailer Locator, check state RMP lists, or contact your local Popeyes to confirm EBT acceptance. With smart budgeting and the right information, you can savor Popeyes’ delicious offerings while making the most of your SNAP benefits. Craving that spicy chicken sandwich? Find an RMP-approved Popeyes near you and dig in!