If you receive SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) and are wondering if you can use your EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) card at Denny’s, you’re not alone. Many people rely on food stamps to meet their basic needs and are interested in their options for eating out.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at whether Denny’s accepts EBT, under what circumstances, and how the process works.
Short Answer: Does Denny’s Accept EBT?
Yes, but only at certain locations and under certain conditions.
Denny’s accepts EBT only in certain states through the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) and only for eligible SNAP recipients, such as the elderly, disabled, or homeless.
What Is the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP)?
The Restaurant Meals Program is an optional SNAP option that allows eligible recipients to use their EBT cards to purchase hot, prepared meals at participating restaurants. It is intended for individuals who cannot cook at home due to age, disability, or unstable housing.
RMP is not available in all states. Only a few states have adopted it, and participation by restaurants, such as Denny’s, is optional.
States Where Denny’s Can Accept EBT
As of 2025, the following states participated in the Restaurant Meals Program and had at least some Denny’s restaurants accepting EBT:
California
Denny’s is one of the most active RMP participants in California.
Eligible establishments will post a sign indicating that they accept EBT as part of the RMP. Arizona
Some Denny’s restaurants in Arizona accept EBT.
You must be approved for RMP by the Arizona Department of Economic Security.
Illinois (Pilot Program)
A limited pilot program is in place in select counties. A few Denny’s restaurants are participating.
Maryland and Rhode Island
These states are expanding access to RMP, but the number of participating Denny’s restaurants is limited.
Important: Even in these states, not all Denny’s restaurants accept EBT. Each restaurant must enroll individually in RMP.
Who can use EBT at Denny’s?
You must meet specific eligibility criteria to use your EBT card at Denny’s for RMP. These criteria include:
- Seniors (60 years or older)
- Disabled individuals (receiving disability benefits)
- Homeless individuals (without a permanent overnight residence)
You must also be enrolled in your state’s RMP program. Being a SNAP recipient does not automatically entitle you to use your EBT at restaurants.
How do you find out if a Denny’s near you accepts EBT?
Check with your state’s SNAP office; find a list of restaurants that receive RMP.
Call Denny’s and ask if they accept EBT as part of RMP.
Look for signs on the door or at the register; many establishments display an “EBT Accepted” sticker.
You can also search online by typing:
Denny’s Restaurants Accepting EBT Near [Your City]
Or visit your state’s official social services website for a restaurant locator.
What can you buy at Denny’s with EBT?
If you’re eligible and at a participating restaurant:
- Prepared hot items like pancakes, omelets, hamburgers, and entrees.
- Dine-in or takeout options may be available depending on the restaurant.
Note: You cannot use EBT to pay for:
- Alcohol
- Non-food items
States where Denny’s Does Not Accept EBT
In states without the Restaurant Meals Program, Denny’s does not accept EBT. This includes:
- Texas
- Florida
- Georgia
- New York
- Pennsylvania
- North Carolina
- Ohio
- And most other U.S. states
In these areas, EBT cards can only be used at grocery stores or select farmers’ markets for produce or groceries, not for restaurant meals.
Other Fast Food Chains That Accept EBT (RMP Only)
If you are eligible for RMP, here are other restaurants that accept EBT:
- Subway
- Burger King
- Domino’s
- Pizza Hut
- Taco Bell
- Jack in the Box
- El Pollo Loco
This varies by state and location. Always check before you go.
Tips for Using EBT at Denny’s
✅ Bring your EBT card and a valid ID.
✅ Check your RMP eligibility before ordering.
✅ Call ahead to avoid confusion or refusal at the register.
Don’t assume that all Denny’s accept EBT, even in states where RMP is in effect.
Final Tips
Denny’s accepts EBT, but only at select locations and only for eligible SNAP recipients enrolled in the Restaurant Meals Program. If you are elderly, disabled, or homeless and live in a participating state like California or Arizona, you may be able to use your EBT card at Denny’s for a hot meal.
If your state doesn’t offer RMP, the use of EBT in restaurants is not permitted by federal regulations.
