Does Tam’s Burger Take EBT Cards, SNAP or Food Stamps? — A Comprehensive Guide for Californians

6 min readApr 11, 2024

Food insecurity is a serious concern for many Californians, with nearly one in five people struggling to afford nutritious meals for themselves and their families. The COVID-19 pandemic and rising inflation have only exacerbated this issue. Thankfully, government programs like the CalFresh program (formerly known as food stamps) offer a lifeline through Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards. These cards provide low-income households with financial assistance to purchase groceries and essential food items.

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But did you know that in California, EBT cardholders enrolled in the CalFresh Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) can also use their benefits to purchase hot meals from participating restaurants? This opens up valuable options for those who may lack access to cooking facilities or simply prefer the convenience of a quick meal.

This guide delves into everything you need to know about using your EBT card at Tam’s Burger, a popular Southern California fast-food chain known for its delicious and affordable comfort food.

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What is the CalFresh Restaurant Meals Program (RMP)?

The CalFresh RMP is a valuable extension of the CalFresh program designed to improve access to nutritious meals for specific SNAP recipient groups who face challenges preparing food at home. This program allows qualifying individuals to use their EBT cards to purchase meals from participating restaurants.

Who is Eligible for the CalFresh RMP?

The CalFresh RMP targets specific groups within the SNAP recipient population:

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Elderly Individuals: Individuals aged 60 years or older who receive CalFresh benefits.
Disabled Individuals: Those with disabilities who receive disability or blindness payments or retirement benefits, and are also enrolled in the CalFresh program.
Homeless Individuals: CalFresh recipients with no permanent nighttime residence.
Spouses of Eligible Individuals: Spouses of SNAP recipients who qualify for RMP can also use their EBT cards for hot meals at participating restaurants.

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It’s important to note that the CalFresh RMP is only available in certain states, with California being one of them.

Using Your EBT Card at Tam’s Burger

The good news is that Tam’s Burger accepts EBT cards at select locations throughout California! However, since each restaurant location needs individual approval for EBT participation, not all Tam’s Burger outlets will accept your EBT card. Here’s how to find a participating location and use your EBT card for a satisfying meal:

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Locate a Participating Tam’s Burger: This can be done by calling your nearest Tam’s Burger and inquiring if they accept EBT payments. Alternatively, you can search online for a list of EBT-accepting restaurants in your area. The California Department of Public Social Services website or your local county’s social services department website might have this information.
Order Your Meal: Once you’ve found a participating Tam’s Burger, browse their menu and select your desired meal.
Inform the Cashier about EBT Payment: Let the cashier know you intend to pay with your EBT card before placing your order.
Complete the EBT Transaction: Swipe or insert your EBT card at the register, enter your PIN, and authorize the payment. The cashier will handle the rest.

Important Note: Currently, you cannot use your EBT card to order food online from Tam’s Burger. The EBT program is restricted to in-person purchases at authorized locations.

What Tam’s Burger Items Can You Buy with EBT?

If you find an EBT-accepting Tam’s Burger, you can purchase most menu items, including:

Breakfast items (eggs, pancakes, burritos)
Burgers and sandwiches
Salads
Mexican food (tacos, burritos)
Sides (fries, onion rings)
Drinks

General EBT Purchase Guidelines

USDA guidelines restrict EBT purchases to approved food items.
You can buy fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, bread, cereals, and seeds.
You cannot buy prepared foods, alcohol, tobacco, vitamins, or cleaning supplies with EBT.

Exploring Alternative EBT-Friendly Fast Food Options in California

Finding a participating Tam’s Burger near you might not always be possible. But worry not! California boasts a wide range of other fast-food restaurants that accept EBT payments through the CalFresh RMP. Here are some popular options:

Domino’s Pizza: Enjoy a delicious pizza with your EBT card at over 60 Domino’s locations across California.
KFC: Craving some crispy fried chicken? Head to one of the nearly 130 EBT-accepting KFC restaurants in the state.
Burger King: Who can resist a juicy Whopper? You can use your EBT card at almost 145 Burger King locations in California.
Carl’s Jr.: Indulge in char-broiled burgers and other delicious options at over 150 EBT-participating Carl’s Jr. restaurants.
Del Taco: Enjoy a taste of Mexico with your EBT card at around 140 Del Taco locations serving tacos, burritos, and other Mexican-inspired favorites.
Denny’s: Craving comfort food? Nearly 50 Denny’s restaurants accept EBT cards, allowing you to enjoy pancakes, burgers, and other classic dishes.
El Pollo Loco: Savor their flame-grilled chicken and other Mexican specialties at over 220 EBT-accepting El Pollo Loco restaurants in California.
Jack in the Box: This popular chain offers a variety of options, from burgers and tacos to breakfast items and late-night snacks. Around 475 Jack in the Box locations accept EBT cards throughout California.
McDonald’s: The iconic golden arches welcome EBT cardholders at nearly 115 McDonald’s restaurants in California, so you can enjoy their classic menu items.
Papa John’s (limited locations): While locations are limited, some Papa John’s restaurants accept EBT cards, allowing you to enjoy a delicious pizza delivered straight to your doorstep.
Pizza Hut: Find a satisfying meal from a wide selection of pizzas at over 225 EBT-accepting Pizza Hut locations in California.
Wendy’s: Known for their fresh, never-frozen beef burgers, Wendy’s offers EBT payment options at around 85 restaurants across California.
Taco Bell (limited locations): Enjoy a taste of Mexico with your EBT card at some Taco Bell locations, primarily concentrated in Riverside County.
Rally’s Hamburgers: This fast-food chain serves flavorful hamburgers and classic sides. Nearly 25 EBT-accepting Rally’s restaurants are scattered throughout California.
Subway: Subway allows for customization, letting you create your perfect sandwich or salad using your EBT card at over 500 participating locations in California.

These are just a few examples, and many other restaurants in California accept EBT payments. Here are some additional options to explore:

DOUBLEZ
Everytable
Fatburger
Frosty King
Giant Pizza King
La Pizza Loca
Louisiana Famous Fried Chicken
PizzaMan Dan’s
Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen
Primo Burger
Sombrero
The Habit Burger Grill
Tom’s Jr. Burgers
Vallarta Supermarket
Waba Grill
Wienerschnitzel
Wingstop
Yoshinoya

Remember: It’s always best to call your nearest restaurant location to confirm their EBT acceptance policy before heading out.

Conclusion

The CalFresh Restaurant Meals Program provides valuable assistance to low-income Californians facing challenges preparing meals at home. With your EBT card and this guide, you can explore various EBT-friendly restaurants, including select Tam’s Burger locations, and enjoy hot, delicious meals without breaking the bank.

We hope this comprehensive guide empowers you to make the most of your CalFresh benefits and explore the diverse range of EBT-accepting restaurants California has to offer.

FAQs

1. Can I use my EBT card to buy groceries at Tam’s Burger?

No, EBT cards are strictly for purchasing prepared meals at authorized restaurants participating in the CalFresh RMP. Tam’s Burger does not sell groceries.

2. What items can I purchase with my EBT card at Tam’s Burger?

You can use your EBT card to purchase any menu items considered food by the USDA. This typically includes burgers, fries, sandwiches, salads, and beverages (excluding alcoholic drinks).

3. What happens if I try to use my EBT card to purchase ineligible items?

The transaction will be declined. EBT cards have restrictions on what can be purchased. Using your card for ineligible items can lead to penalties or even suspension of your benefits.

4. I live in a different state. Does the CalFresh RMP apply to me?

The CalFresh RMP is a California-specific program. If you live in another state, you’ll need to check the SNAP program regulations in your area to see if there’s a similar program for restaurant meals.

5. Where can I learn more about the CalFresh program?

You can visit the California Department of Social Services website (https://www.cdss.ca.gov/calfresh) for detailed information about the CalFresh program, eligibility requirements, and a list of participating restaurants.