Fast Food Restaurants That Accept EBT in Illinois

In Illinois, a variety of fast food restaurants that accept EBT are now making dining more accessible and affordable.

This guide is designed to help EBT cardholders discover these eateries across the state, offering a range of flavors and cuisines to suit every palate.

From bustling city centers to quiet suburban streets, we’ve compiled a list of fast food restaurants that accept EBT where convenience and cost-efficiency meet.

Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a family meal, our guide will direct you to the best spots in Illinois where your EBT card is readily accepted.

Join us as we delve into the diverse and delicious world of fast food restaurants that accept EBT in Illinois, made easier with EBT.

Can You Use EBT at Restaurants in Illinois?

Yes, you can use EBT at restaurants in Illinois. In the entire United States, very few states participate in restaurant meal programs, including Illinois.

The Illinois SNAP Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) is a specific component of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) that extends its benefits beyond traditional grocery purchases.

The program is specifically designed to help certain segments of the SNAP recipient population, including the elderly, disabled, and homeless individuals, who may face challenges preparing meals for themselves.

In Illinois, RMP is not implemented statewide but is available in select counties, particularly Cook and Franklin counties.

This targeted approach aims to address the needs of SNAP recipients in these areas who could benefit the most from the program.

Restaurants participating in the RMP must be approved by both the state and the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS).

These organizations agree to offer subsidized meals to eligible SNAP recipients, expanding the food options available to them.

For SNAP recipients who are part of the RMP, their EBT cards are coded to enable transactions at these participating restaurants, allowing them to purchase hot, prepared meals.

The primary goal of RMP in Illinois is to increase access to food for vulnerable segments of the SNAP population.

By allowing the purchase of prepared meals at participating restaurants, the program acknowledges and addresses the unique challenges faced by the elderly, disabled, and homeless individuals in obtaining nutritious food.

Eligibility Criteria for Illinois Snap Restaurant Meals Program (RMP)

The eligibility criteria for the Illinois SNAP Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) are designed to cater to specific segments of the SNAP recipient population who may face challenges in preparing meals for themselves.

Here are the eligibility criteria for the Illinois SNAP Restaurant Meals Program:

1. SNAP Recipient: To be eligible for the RMP, an individual must first be a recipient of SNAP benefits. This means they must meet the general eligibility requirements for SNAP in Illinois, which typically include income and asset limits.
2. Targeted Groups: The RMP is specifically aimed at certain groups within the SNAP recipient population. These include:
   • Elderly Individuals: Typically, this category includes those who are 60 years of age or older.
   • Disabled Individuals: This includes individuals who receive disability or blindness payments, such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), or disability retirement benefits from a governmental agency due to a disability considered permanent.
   • Homeless Individuals: The program is also open to individuals who are homeless, as defined by the program’s guidelines.
3. Residency in Participating Areas: As the RMP in Illinois is not implemented statewide, eligibility is also dependent on residing in a county where the program is active. In Illinois, only Cook and Franklin Counties were participating in the program.

List of Fast Food Restaurants That Accept EBT in Illinois

In the entire state of Illinois, only Cook and Franklin Counties have a few restaurants that participate in the Restaurant Meal Program and accept EBT.

Here is a list of fast-food restaurants that accept EBT in Illinois:

City or County	Fast Food Restaurant Name	Address	Conct. No.
Cook County	BJ’s Market & Bakery	1737 E. 95th St. Chicago, IL 60617	(773)-374-4700
	Caribbean Jerk’s Palace III	10318 S Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60628	(708)-831-2582
	Doughboy’s Chicago	352 E. 71st Street, Chicago, IL 60619	(872)-244-7592
	Firehouse Bakery & Grill	720 E 75th St, Chicago, IL 60619	(773)-710-0308
	JJ Fish and Chicken	47 W 79th St, Chicago, IL 60620	(872)-244-7711
	Ocean Wave Soul & Seafood	2002 E 87th St, Chicago, IL 60617	(773)-530-0788
	S2 Express Grill	129 E. 103rd Street, Chicago, IL 60628	(773)-629-8125
Franklin County	Bonnie’s Care	15 W Frankfort Plaza, West Frankfort, IL 62896	(618)-932-9777
	Joe’s Pizza	117 E. Main Street, Benton, IL 62812	(618)-438-0563

How to Use EBT at Restaurants in Illinois?

Using an EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) card at restaurants in Illinois under the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) involves a few specific steps and conditions.

Here are the steps to using EBT at restaurants in Illinois:

Step 1. Determine Eligibility:

First, ensure that you are eligible for the Restaurant Meals Program.

This program is typically available to specific groups within the SNAP recipient population, such as the elderly (aged 60 and over), disabled, and homeless individuals.

Additionally, you should be residing in a county where the RMP is operational, such as Cook or Franklin County in Illinois.

Step 2. Find Participating Restaurants:

Locate restaurants that participate in the Illinois RMP. These establishments have agreements with the state to accept EBT cards for meal purchases.

Participating restaurants may display a sign indicating they accept EBT, or you can obtain a list of participating restaurants from the Illinois Department of Human Services or their website.

Step 3. Using the EBT Card:

When you are at a participating restaurant, you can use your EBT card to pay for your meal just like you would use a debit card. Inform the staff that you will be paying with an EBT card. They will process the card through their point-of-sale system.

Step 4. Transaction Process:

Swipe your EBT card at the restaurant’s payment terminal and enter your PIN to complete the transaction. The cost of the meal will be deducted from your SNAP benefits.

Step 5. Understand the Limitations:

Be aware of what you can and cannot purchase with your EBT card at restaurants.

The program is intended for the purchase of prepared meals. Items like alcohol, tobacco, or non-food items cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits.

Step 6. Keep Track of Your Balance:

It’s important to keep track of your SNAP benefit balance. You can check your balance by looking at your last receipt, using an online account if available, or calling the customer service number on the back of your EBT card.

Benefits of Using EBT at Restaurants in Illinois

Using EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) at restaurants in Illinois offers several benefits, particularly for eligible groups such as the elderly, disabled, and homeless individuals.

Here are some of the benefits of using EBT at restaurants in Illinois:

1. Increased Access to Prepared Meals: For individuals who may have difficulty preparing meals due to age, disability, or lack of permanent housing, the RMP provides access to hot, prepared meals. This is especially beneficial for those who might not have the means to store or cook food.
2. Nutritional Variety and Balance: Participating in the RMP allows for a greater variety of food choices, which can contribute to a more balanced and nutritious diet. This is particularly important for elderly and disabled individuals who may have specific dietary needs.
3. Convenience: For those facing mobility challenges or without kitchen facilities, the ability to purchase prepared meals at restaurants offers significant convenience and eases the burden of meal preparation.
4. Social Interaction: Eating out at restaurants can provide social benefits, especially for the elderly or those who live alone. It offers an opportunity to interact with others in the community, which can be important for mental and emotional well-being.
5. Supports Local Businesses: By allowing EBT usage at local restaurants, the RMP can help support local businesses. This not only benefits the economy but also fosters community ties.

Conclusion:

Fast food restaurants that take EBT significantly benefit specific groups within the SNAP recipient population, particularly the elderly, disabled, and homeless.

By allowing these individuals to use their EBT cards at participating fast food restaurants, the program provides increased access to prepared meals, enhances nutritional variety, offers convenience, and promotes social interaction.

This initiative not only aids vulnerable populations in meeting their dietary needs but also supports local businesses in the participating counties.

---

Frequently Asked Questions:

What Fast Food Places Take EBT in Illinois?

Here is a list of fast food places that take EBT in Illinois:

• Cook County:
  • BJ’s Market & Bakery: 1737 E. 95th Street, Chicago, IL 60617
  • Caribbean Jerk’s Palace III: 10318 S. Halsted Street, Chicago, IL 60628
  • Doughboy’s Chicago: 352 E. 71st Street, Chicago, IL 60619
  • Firehouse Bakery & Grill: 720 E. 75th Street, Chicago, IL 60619
  • JJ Fish and Chicken: 47 W. 79th Street, Chicago, IL 60620
  • Ocean Wave Soul & Seafood: 2002 E 87th St, Chicago, IL 60617
  • S2 Express Grill: 129 E. 103rd Street, Chicago, IL 60628
• Franklin County:
  • Bonnie’s Care: 15 W Frankfort Plaza, West Frankfort, IL 62896
  • Joe’s Pizza: 117 E. Main Street, Benton, IL 62812

What Restaurants Take EBT in Illinois?

In Illinois, only Cook and Franklin Counties have a few restaurants that participate in the Restaurant Meal Program and accept EBT. Here is a list of restaurants that take EBT in Illinois:

• BJ’s Market & Bakery
• Caribbean Jerk’s Palace III
• Doughboy’s Chicago
• Firehouse Bakery & Grill
• JJ Fish and Chicken
• Ocean Wave Soul & Seafood
• S2 Express Grill
• Bonnie’s Care
• Joe’s Pizza

What Fast Food Restaurants Accept EBT in Chicago?

Here is a list of fast-food restaurants that accept EBT in Chicago:

• BJ’s Market & Bakery
• Caribbean Jerk’s Palace III
• Doughboy’s Chicago
• Firehouse Bakery & Grill
• JJ Fish and Chicken
• Ocean Wave Soul & Seafood
• S2 Express Grill

Does McDonald’s Accept EBt in Illinois?

No, McDonald’s generally does not accept EBT in Illinois.

Does Subway Accept EBT in Illinois?

No, any Subway location does not accept EBT in Illinois.

Does Taco Bell Take EBT in Illinois?

No, Taco Bell generally does not accept EBT in Illinois.