Does Dairy Queen Take EBT? — A Guide to Using Your Food Stamps at Dairy Queen

7 min readApr 13, 2024

With rising food costs, many Americans rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to put food on the table. Luckily, SNAP offers some flexibility through the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP), allowing beneficiaries to use their EBT cards at participating restaurants.

This guide explores everything you need to know about using your EBT card at Dairy Queen, including eligibility, accepted items, and limitations.

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Can You Use Your EBT Card at Dairy Queen?

Yes, but with limitations. Dairy Queen participates in the RMP, but only in specific states. Currently, you can use your EBT card at Dairy Queen in:

· Arizona

· California

· Illinois

· Maryland

· Michigan

· Rhode Island

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Who is Eligible to Use EBT at Dairy Queen?

The Restaurant Meals Program is designed for individuals facing challenges preparing meals at home due to:

· Age (60 years or older)

· Disability

· Homelessness

What Can You Buy at Dairy Queen with EBT?

If you live in an RMP-approved state and qualify for the program, you can purchase a variety of hot and cold food items at Dairy Queen using your EBT card. Here are some examples:

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· Blizzards

· Cookies

· Burgers and Sandwiches

· Fries

· Onion Rings

· Chicken Strips

· Soft Drinks

· Pretzel Sticks

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· Cheeseburgers

· Salads

· Kids Meals

· Cakes

· Non-Dairy Dilly Bars

· Blended Beverages

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Important Things to Remember

· Not all Dairy Queen locations, even in participating states, accept EBT. Look for signage indicating EBT acceptance or inquire with the staff before placing your order.

· The USDA sets strict guidelines on SNAP-eligible food items. You cannot use your EBT card for alcoholic beverages, cigarettes, or hot prepared meals outside of the RMP.

· Always check your EBT balance before heading to Dairy Queen.

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How to Use Your EBT Card at Dairy Queen?

Using your EBT card at Dairy Queen is similar to using it at any other grocery store:

1. Locate an RMP-approved Dairy Queen in your area.

2. Check your EBT balance.

3. When ready to pay, present your EBT card at the cashier or drive-thru window.

4. Enter your PIN to complete the transaction.

5. You will receive a receipt like any other customer.

Alternatives to Using EBT at Dairy Queen

If you live in a state that doesn’t participate in the RMP or your local Dairy Queen doesn’t accept EBT, you can explore other payment options, including:

· Cash

· Coupons

· Major credit cards

· Apple Pay

Other Fast Food Restaurants Accepting EBT

While Dairy Queen’s EBT acceptance is limited by state, several other fast-food chains participate in the RMP in various locations. Here are a few examples:

· Burger King

· Carl’s Jr.

· Church’s Chicken

· Domino’s Pizza (California only)

· Del Taco (California only)

· Denny’s (California only)

· El Pollo Loco (Arizona and California)

· Jack in the Box (Arizona and California)

· KFC (Arizona and California)

· Little Caesars (limited locations in Arizona and California)

· Papa John’s (limited locations in Arizona and California)

· Subway (limited locations in Arizona and California)

· Taco Bell (Arizona and California)

· Wendy’s (limited locations in California)

· Popeye’s (limited locations in Arizona and California)

What Other Fast Food Chains Accept Food Stamps or EBT?

While Dairy Queen’s EBT acceptance is limited by state, many other fast-food chains participate in the RMP in various locations. This section expands on the list provided earlier:

Burger King: Over 18,700 locations across the U.S. Accepts EBT cards in some stores in Arizona and California.
Carl’s Jr.: Over 1,000 locations nationwide. Accepts EBT cards in some stores in Arizona and California.
Church’s Chicken: Offers delicious fried chicken with Southern-style sides. Accepts EBT in a limited number of Arizona counties.
Domino’s Pizza (California only): Renowned pizza delivery and takeout chain. Nearly 62 locations accept EBT, allowing SNAP recipients to enjoy pizza, pasta, chicken wings, and more.
Del Taco (California only): Serves American-inspired twists on tacos, burgers, and burritos. EBT cards are accepted at over 140 California locations.
Denny’s (California only): Popular diner-style chain known for 24/7 service. Accepts EBT in some California locations.
EL Pollo Loco (Arizona and California): Offers flame-grilled chicken with Mexican-inspired flair. EBT cards are accepted at nearly 249 locations in these two states.
Jack in the Box (Arizona and California): Serves classic American fast food like burgers, tacos, and milkshakes. EBT cards are accepted in some stores in these states.
KFC (Arizona and California): Famous for its fried chicken with 11 herbs and spices. EBT cards are accepted in some stores in these states.
Little Caesars (limited locations in Arizona and California): Offers affordable pizzas made with high-quality ingredients. EBT cards are accepted in a handful of locations.
Papa John’s (limited locations in Arizona and California): Well-known pizza chain for its delicious and satisfying pizzas. EBT cards are accepted in some stores participating in the RMP.
Papa Murphy’s: Take-and-bake pizza chain allowing customization before baking at home. EBT cards are not accepted at Dairy Queen, but Papa Murphy’s accepts them at all locations nationwide.
Pizza Hut (California and Arizona): Offers a wide variety of pizzas with sides. EBT cards are accepted at nearly 227 locations in these two states.
Rally’s Hamburger (Arizona and California): Serves classic American fast food like burgers, chicken, and hot dogs. EBT cards are accepted in some stores through the RMP program.
Subway (limited locations in Arizona and California): Renowned for its build-your-own sandwiches with a variety of fresh ingredients. EBT cards are accepted at a limited number of locations in these two states. Be sure to call your nearest Subway or check online before your visit.
Taco Bell (Arizona and California): Popular chain serving Mexican-inspired fast food like tacos, burritos, and nachos. EBT cards are accepted in many Arizona and California locations.
Wendy’s (limited locations in California): Offers classic American fast food like burgers, fries, and frosty treats. EBT cards are accepted in a limited number of stores in California.
Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen (limited locations in Arizona and California): Popular for its fried chicken and Southern-style menu items. EBT cards are accepted in some locations participating in the RMP program.

Conclusion

Understanding EBT eligibility and Dairy Queen’s participation in the RMP can help you maximize your SNAP benefits. Remember to check your state’s RMP participation and individual store policies before your visit.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How Many Dairy Queen Restaurants Are There?

There are over 6,000 Dairy Queen locations operating across the United States, Canada, and 20 other countries. You can find your closest Dairy Queen by entering your zip code in the search bar on the Dairy Queen website and selecting “Find Your Store.”

Which U.S. State Has the Most Dairy Queen Restaurants?

Texas boasts the most Dairy Queen locations with over 600 stores. Unfortunately, EBT cards are not accepted at Dairy Queen in Texas because the state does not participate in the Restaurant Meals Program.

Can I Use My EBT Card Online to Order from Dairy Queen?

No, you cannot use your EBT card to order meals online from Dairy Queen. Currently, Dairy Queen only accepts EBT in select locations, and most restaurants don’t participate in the USDA Online Purchasing Pilot Program that allows EBT cardholders to order food online using their benefits.

What Other Retailers Accept EBT Cards Online?

While not all retailers accept EBT cards online, several major chains enrolled in the SNAP Online Purchasing Pilot Program do. Here are a few examples:

· Aldi

· Walmart

· ShopRite

· Kroger

· Wright’s Markets

· Wegmans

· Fresh Direct

· Amazon (through certain programs)

· Instacart (through participating retailers)

· Food Lion

· Safeway

· Publix

· BJ’s Wholesale Club

How Can I Find Out If a Retailer Accepts EBT Cards Online?

If you’re unsure whether a retailer accepts EBT cards online, you can call them or check their official website before making a purchase. Even if a retailer accepts EBT cards online, there might be restrictions on the types of items you can purchase. Remember, USDA rules and guidelines regarding SNAP usage apply to both in-store and online purchases with your EBT card.

How Can I Learn More About the Restaurant Meals Program?

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) manages the SNAP program, including the Restaurant Meals Program. You can find more information about the RMP at the official SNAP website: https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/state-directory