Can I use CalFresh EBT benefits at McDonald's? What fast food places accept EBT in California?

Most McDonalds dont accept EBT for regular food purchases. BUT in california theres something called the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) that lets some ppl use EBT at certain restaurants. You have to qualify tho - its only for homeless, elderly (60+) or disabled CalFresh recipients who cant really cook. Check ur county to see if they have RMP and if ur eligible for it.

Thanks! I didn't know about that program. I'm not homeless or disabled so I guess I don't qualify. Kind of disappointing since the kids were excited 😕

To clarify what the previous poster said - McDonald's participation in the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) varies by county and location. Counties that participate in RMP include Alameda, Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, Sacramento, San Diego, San Francisco, San Luis Obispo, Santa Clara, and Santa Cruz.\n\nIf you're not elderly, disabled, or homeless, you're correct that you don't qualify for RMP. CalFresh benefits are designed for purchasing unprepared food items that you cook at home. This encourages healthier eating and maximizes the nutritional value of your benefits.\n\nFor regular CalFresh recipients, your EBT card can be used at:\n- Grocery stores\n- Supermarkets\n- Farmers markets (many give you extra value through Market Match)\n- Some online retailers like Amazon and Walmart for grocery delivery\n\nHope this helps clarify!

ya i think jack in the box takes it in LA county... my cousin uses his ebt there all the time but hes homeless

Yes, Jack in the Box does participate in the Restaurant Meals Program in some counties, including parts of LA County. But again, this is only available to those who qualify for RMP (homeless, elderly, or disabled CalFresh recipients).

When I first got CalFresh I was confused about this too! It's frustrating because the rules aren't always clear. I tried using my EBT at Subway once and got rejected - felt so embarrassed! 😳 I wish they'd give us better information when they send the cards.\n\nOne thing that's been helpful for me is the CalFresh app - it shows you where you can use your benefits nearby. But yeah, like others said, you can't use regular CalFresh at McDonald's if you're not in those special categories. I've found that my benefits stretch much further when I cook anyway, even though it's more work with kids.

what app are u talking about?? i didnt know there was a calfresh app

Sorry, I should have been more specific! I was talking about the Fresh EBT app (now called Providers). It's not an official government app but it helps you check your balance and find stores that accept EBT. Really useful!

Just to add some important information - there's a lot of confusion about this topic. The Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) was expanded in California in 2019, but still has specific eligibility requirements.\n\nIf you're having trouble getting clear information about CalFresh benefits, eligibility for programs like RMP, or if you need to update your case information, I highly recommend using Claimyr to get through to an actual CalFresh worker at your county office. They'll connect you directly without the usual long hold times. You can check them out at claimyr.com and see how it works in their video demo: https://youtu.be/eZ19FHRETv8?si=_CXnXqNXbLl26WB8\n\nI used it when I had questions about my own benefits and was able to speak with someone in minutes instead of waiting for hours.

Has anyone actually tried this service? I've been trying to get through to Alameda County for THREE DAYS about my recertification and keep getting disconnected. About to lose my mind 😠

Yes, I've used it twice now. The second time was actually for my recertification questions in Santa Clara county. They got me through in about 10 minutes when I had been trying for days on my own. Worth it when you're desperate to reach someone quickly.

THIS IS WHY THE SYSTEM IS SO FRUSTRATING!!!! They make the rules so complicated on purpose! Why can homeless people get fast food but families with kids can't?? My kids would love McDonald's too but instead I have to cook every night after working all day. The whole program needs an overhaul. They treat us like we can't make our own choices about what to feed our families. 😡

its cuz homeless ppl dont have kitchens to cook in... elderly and disabled might not be able to cook easily either. not saying the system is perfect but thats the reasoning

I understand the reasoning but it still feels unfair. Some days after a 10-hour shift the last thing I want to do is cook, but I don't have a choice if I want to use my benefits.

For families who are looking to maximize their CalFresh benefits while still getting convenient meals, here are some suggestions that comply with program rules:\n\n1. Many grocery stores now sell ready-to-heat meals that qualify for EBT since they're not prepared hot.\n\n2. You can purchase rotisserie chickens and prepared cold deli items at most grocery stores with EBT.\n\n3. Some grocery stores have meal kits that significantly reduce prep time while still counting as grocery items.\n\n4. If you shop at Walmart or Amazon with your EBT, look for their prepared meal options that just need heating.\n\n5. For a special treat that feels like fast food, consider buying frozen items like chicken nuggets, fries, and pizza that kids enjoy.\n\nWhile it's not the same as McDonald's, these options can help when you're tired and the kids want something special.

These are great suggestions, thank you! I didn't realize I could buy rotisserie chickens with EBT. That will definitely help on busy nights. And my kids do love those frozen chicken nuggets that taste similar to McDonald's.

u can buy the mcdonalds coffee in grocery stores with ebt i think... not the same but maybe will help with the cravings lol

Just wanted to add that some counties also have farmers markets that participate in CalFresh! In my area, you can use your EBT card at the farmers market and they often have programs that match your benefits - like spend $10 in CalFresh and get an extra $10 in market bucks. It's a great way to get fresh produce and stretch your benefits further. The food is usually much healthier than fast food too, which is better for the kids in the long run even if they don't realize it yet! 😊

As someone who's been on CalFresh for about 6 months now, I totally get the confusion! When I first got my card, I thought I could use it everywhere and was pretty disappointed to learn about all the restrictions. One thing that's helped me is meal prepping on Sundays - I buy ingredients that can make multiple meals throughout the week. Like getting a big bag of chicken thighs, rice, and frozen vegetables can make several different meals that my kids actually enjoy. Way cheaper than fast food and honestly more filling too. Also, if you're looking for that McDonald's-type experience for your kids, try getting those frozen hash browns and making breakfast for dinner sometimes - my kids think it's the coolest thing ever! 😄 The farmers market suggestion is really good too - I was surprised how much fresh fruit my kids would eat when they got to pick it out themselves at the market.