Does Subway Accept EBT Card-2?

Reviewed by Soliu.

Not really, but if you are eligible for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, you can use your EBT card for purchases at Subway Restaurants. However, Subway only accepts EBT payments in states participating in the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP). 

Does Subway Accept EBT Card-2

For instance, in some states, a subset of Subway restaurants may participate in the Restaurant Meals Program, which allows elderly, disabled, and homeless individuals to use their EBT benefits to purchase prepared meals at participating restaurants. Even within states that offer this program, it’s usually not all Subway locations that participate, but rather specific franchises.

Because regulations and participation policies can change, it’s best to check directly with your local Subway location or the appropriate state agency to determine if EBT cards are accepted at a nearby Subway.

Does Subway Accept EBT Card-2? According to Frugal Reality, Subway only accepts EBT at selected locations in California, Arizona and Rhode Island. The RMP is a state option that allows specific SNAP recipients to buy prepared meals at restaurants using their SNAP benefits. 

You may still be lucky if you don’t reside in the above states. Some Subway locations may accept EBT for cold food items. Understand that this is solely the manager’s decision, and it’s rare to find a Subway that takes EBT in states outside the RMP.

Note that Subway only accepts EBT for in-store purchases. If you order through Subway online or the Subway app, you’ll need to use a different payment method, e.g. a debit or credit card. 

RMP-eligible individuals must be either:

• 60 years of age or older
• Disabled
• Homeless
• A spouse of a SNAP client who is eligible for the RMP

What is an EBT Card-2?

An EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) card-2 is a government-issued card that allows recipients to access various types of public assistance benefits electronically. 

These benefits can include the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and other state-specific programs. 

The EBT card-2 functions like a debit card and can be used to make purchases at approved retailers in grocery stores, farmer’s markets, and restaurant meal programs.

Can I use my EBT card-2 at Subway?

The acceptance of EBT cards at Subway varies by location and by state. Some Subway locations may participate in programs that allow them to accept EBT cards for specific menu items.

What is the Subway Meals Program?

SubwayMeals Program is a program that allows certain groups like the elderly, disabled, and homeless to use their EBT benefits to buy prepared meals at approved restaurants, which can include some Subway locations.

Does Subway Accept EBT Card-2 in all Locations?

No, not all Subway locations accept EBT card-2. The ability to use EBT at Subway is subject to state regulations and specific franchise participation. According to Frugal Reality, Subway only accepts EBT at selected locations in California, Arizona and Rhode Island.

Which menu items are eligible for EBT purchase at Subway?

According to Frugal Reality, these SNAP-eligible items can be purchased with an EBT at Subway:

• Bread and cereals
• Red meat 
• Dessert items 
• Dairy products 
• Fruits and vegetables
• Cold sandwiches and salads
• Soft drinks and energy drinks 
• Pork products 
• Chicken meat and other poultry products
• Snack crackers and chips

However, eligible items can vary by state and by Subway location. It’s important to check with the specific Subway restaurant you plan to visit for more information.

How do I Find out if my Local Subway Accepts EBT?

The best way to find out is to contact your local Subway directly or check with your state’s benefits office for a list of participating restaurants.

Can I use EBT for Subway delivery or online orders?

EBT is not accepted for online or delivery orders. However, this can vary by location and specific arrangements between Subway and local or state governments.

Is there a surcharge or fee for using an EBT card at Subway?

Generally, there is no surcharge for using an EBT card for eligible purchases. However, non-eligible items would need to be paid for with an alternate form of payment.

Can I use EBT benefits at Subway in multiple states?

If a state’s program allows EBT at Subway, you can use your EBT card in that state. However, rules and eligibility can vary from state to state.

Conclusion

Does Subway Accept EBT Card-2? You should know the answer to this by now.

Whether Subway accepts EBT cards is one with a complex and variable answer. Acceptance is not universal across all Subway locations and depends on several factors, such as state regulations, specific programs like the Restaurant Meals Program, and individual franchisee participation. 

While EBT cards are primarily designed for use at grocery stores to purchase eligible food items, specific programs extend their use to fast-food establishments for qualified individuals, such as the elderly, disabled, and homeless.

If you’re considering using your EBT card at Subway, the best course of action is to check with your local restaurant and state’s benefits agency for the latest information. Regulations can change, and franchise participation can vary, making it essential to confirm the current status before planning your purchase.