In-N-Out Burger is a super popular fast-food chain, especially on the West Coast. They’re famous for their fresh burgers, fries, and shakes. But, if you’re getting SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits, you might be wondering: can you use your EBT card at In-N-Out? Let’s find out!
The Simple Answer: Does In-N-Out Accept EBT?
No, In-N-Out Burger does not accept EBT cards. They’ve chosen not to participate in the SNAP program.

Why In-N-Out Doesn’t Take EBT
There isn’t any official public explanation from In-N-Out about why they don’t accept EBT. It’s really up to each business to decide whether or not they want to be part of the SNAP program. Some might not want to deal with the paperwork or the extra steps involved in processing EBT payments. Others might feel their business model or target customer doesn’t align with the program.
It is important to note that accepting EBT comes with certain requirements from the government. In-N-Out, like any business, would need to meet specific criteria to participate. These criteria involve everything from point-of-sale systems to record-keeping. It also means being prepared for potential inspections from government agencies.
Also, even if they did decide to take EBT, there are restrictions. SNAP benefits are generally for food items. This means, at a restaurant like In-N-Out, you’d likely only be able to use EBT for food that’s considered a “grocery item” to take home, not the prepared meals you eat in the restaurant.
So, while we don’t know In-N-Out’s exact reasoning, the choice is theirs. Ultimately, the decision comes down to business strategy and operational considerations.
What You Can Buy With EBT at Other Places
If you’re using EBT, you can still find plenty of places to buy food. Remember that EBT cards are mainly for buying groceries. So, things like fresh produce, meats, and dairy products are usually covered. This can include ingredients to make a burger at home yourself, like bread, cheese, and vegetables. Many grocery stores, supermarkets, and farmers’ markets accept EBT.
Not every store can accept EBT. To use your benefits, you’ll need to go to places that have been approved by the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture). You will want to see if a business has an EBT sign, which can be an easy way to identify stores that accept EBT.
Sometimes, other types of stores can accept EBT too. For example, some convenience stores and even some gas stations may accept EBT. However, this can vary a lot. So, you always need to double-check at the specific store. Restaurants and fast food chains are less likely to accept EBT, though some may participate in special programs for elderly or disabled individuals.
To help find approved places, you can use online resources or contact your local social services office. You can also check the USDA’s website to see where your benefits can be used.
Alternatives to In-N-Out for a Meal
Since In-N-Out doesn’t take EBT, you might be looking for alternative options for a meal. Luckily, there are tons of places that might work! Many other fast-food restaurants are likely to accept EBT. You can often find a variety of choices, offering everything from sandwiches to pizza, though they vary by location.
Think about which places are best for your needs, budget, and what you want to eat. Do a little research online or ask friends and family for recommendations to see if they have any places that they go to. Finding a place that is well-suited for you is important.
When deciding where to eat, consider the following:
- Budget: How much can you afford to spend?
- Location: How close is it to you or a public transportation stop?
- Dietary needs: Do you have any allergies or special diets?
- Reviews: What do other people say about the food and service?
When deciding, remember that your options are not limited to fast food. Community kitchens and soup kitchens provide free meals. These options can be very helpful if you need a filling, nutritious meal and are managing your budget.
Cooking at Home With EBT
One excellent way to use your EBT is to cook at home. When you cook your own meals, you have total control over the ingredients. This can be cheaper and healthier than eating out. Plus, you get to decide what you eat and how it tastes. This lets you get creative in the kitchen and try new things.
When you are ready to cook at home, make a shopping list. It is important to list all the ingredients you will need for the meals you want to prepare. Check your kitchen for items you already have and look at some recipes to see how they are prepared.
Here’s a sample shopping list for a simple meal:
- Ground beef or turkey
- Burger buns
- Lettuce
- Tomatoes
- Onion
- Cheese slices
- Ketchup
- Mustard
- Potatoes (for fries)
- Cooking oil
With some planning, you can make tasty meals and still use your EBT benefits to pay for your groceries. This will help your budget and offer a more nutritional meal.
EBT Rules and Regulations
It’s important to understand the rules of EBT so you can use your benefits correctly. You will need to know which types of foods are covered and what items are not allowed. For example, EBT usually covers most food items, like groceries, fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy products. It doesn’t cover things like alcohol, tobacco, and non-food items like paper products and toiletries.
There can be consequences for misuse of the EBT card. It is very important to follow the rules and regulations that are set in place by the USDA. These regulations are designed to protect the integrity of the program and ensure that benefits are used correctly.
Each state has its own rules for using the EBT card. Here’s a quick overview:
Item | Allowed? |
---|---|
Fresh Produce | Yes |
Meat & Poultry | Yes |
Alcohol | No |
Ready-to-eat meals | Sometimes (depends on the state and store) |
If you have questions or need clarification, contact your local EBT office. They can help you understand the rules and ensure you are using your benefits correctly.
Other Ways to Get Help With Food
If you’re struggling to afford food, EBT isn’t the only resource available. Many other programs and services can help you get the food you need. These options can help supplement your EBT benefits or provide assistance if you’re not eligible for EBT.
One of these resources is food banks. Food banks provide food and meals to people in need. You can usually find a food bank in your area. They offer a variety of foods, from fresh produce to canned goods. Food banks are a great resource for individuals and families to ensure they have enough food.
Here are some other places to turn to:
- Food Pantries: Similar to food banks, but often smaller and more local.
- Soup Kitchens: Serve hot meals to those who need them.
- Community Gardens: Provide opportunities to grow your own food.
- Government Programs: Other federal and state programs may offer additional assistance.
For resources, you can also contact local social services organizations. These organizations provide a wealth of information about food programs and other services in your area.
If you need help, don’t be afraid to reach out. There are many people who care about you. Getting help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Conclusion
So, to wrap it up, while In-N-Out doesn’t accept EBT, there are still plenty of ways to use your benefits to get delicious and affordable food. You can visit grocery stores, farmers’ markets, and some fast-food restaurants. With some planning, you can enjoy a wide variety of meals and make the most of your resources. Remember to look for other resources to make sure you and your family are well-fed. By understanding the rules and knowing your options, you can ensure you have access to healthy and satisfying meals.