When you’re craving a Blizzard or a burger, Dairy Queen is a classic choice. But if you’re using food assistance, like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), you might be wondering: does Dairy Queen accept EBT? This can be a tricky question, so let’s break it down and explore the ins and outs of using your EBT card at DQ.
The Simple Answer: It’s Not Always a “Yes”
So, does Dairy Queen accept EBT? The short answer is: it depends. It’s not a straightforward “yes” across the board. The ability to use your EBT card at Dairy Queen really hinges on a few key things, primarily the location and what you’re buying.
Understanding SNAP and What You Can Buy
SNAP, sometimes called food stamps, is designed to help people buy food. You can typically use your EBT card to purchase a wide variety of groceries at supermarkets and grocery stores. But, when it comes to fast food restaurants, the rules get a bit more complicated. The core goal of SNAP is to ensure that individuals and families have access to nutritious food.
Here are the general rules about what you CAN buy with SNAP:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Dairy products
- Breads and cereals
- Other non-alcoholic beverages
- Seeds and plants that produce food for the household to eat
And here’s what you CAN’T buy with SNAP:
- Alcoholic beverages
- Tobacco products
- Vitamins, medicines, and supplements (unless approved by SNAP)
- Live animals (except for those that are used to provide food for the household)
- Non-food items (such as pet food, cleaning supplies, and household items)
This is where fast food restaurants come into play. Generally, you can’t use your EBT card to buy prepared foods at restaurants, unless specific conditions are met.
The Restaurant Meal Program (RMP)
Some states have a special program called the Restaurant Meal Program (RMP). This program allows certain SNAP recipients, like the elderly, homeless, or those with disabilities who have difficulty preparing their own meals, to use their EBT cards at participating restaurants. This program is designed to provide them with more access to food. It is important to remember this program has specific rules.
To be able to use your EBT card at a restaurant through the RMP, you must:
- Live in a state that offers the RMP (not all states do).
- Meet the eligibility requirements of the program within that state.
- Go to a restaurant that is authorized to accept EBT cards under the RMP.
If you are in a state that participates in the RMP, you would likely have to provide your SNAP information along with your proof of being a SNAP participant to the participating restaurant to use your benefits. It is very important to realize that this does not include all Dairy Queen locations, just the ones approved. It’s always best to call ahead to confirm if a specific Dairy Queen location is part of the RMP.
Franchise vs. Corporate: The Location Difference
Dairy Queen is a franchise, meaning that most locations are independently owned and operated. This can influence whether or not they accept EBT. While Dairy Queen has a brand-wide identity, individual store owners make their own decisions about accepting forms of payment.
The locations could also be different based on the state or the location of the Dairy Queen. For example, a Dairy Queen located inside a mall food court might have different rules than a stand-alone DQ on the side of a highway.
This table shows a small example of different situations:
| Location Type | Likelihood of EBT Acceptance |
|---|---|
| Stand-alone DQ | Potentially, if RMP is in place and store participates |
| DQ inside a mall | Lower likelihood, depends on individual store policy |
| DQ inside a travel plaza | Could be RMP, worth checking |
For this reason, whether or not a Dairy Queen accepts EBT varies from store to store. The only way to know for sure is to call your local Dairy Queen and ask.
What You Can Buy (If They Accept EBT)
Even if a Dairy Queen does accept EBT, there might be some restrictions on what you can purchase with it. Generally, SNAP benefits are intended for food items. The rules are different for each state, but you could probably use the EBT card for certain menu items.
If a DQ accepts EBT, you could likely purchase:
- Burgers and sandwiches (if considered a “prepared meal”)
- Ice cream cones (if considered a “staple food”)
You probably CAN’T use your EBT card to pay for items that are considered non-food items. This includes beverages, if you are not also purchasing an entree. Be aware that this policy could also be dependent on the rules of the specific state.
Here’s an example of how a meal might be categorized for EBT:
- Meal that is eligible for EBT: A burger, fries, and a drink
- Meal that is not eligible for EBT: A single Blizzard
Tips for Finding Out if a Dairy Queen Accepts EBT
The easiest way to find out if your local Dairy Queen accepts EBT is to call them directly. Look up the phone number online or on your phone’s maps app, and give them a quick call before you head over.
Ask these questions:
- “Do you accept EBT?”
- “Do you participate in the Restaurant Meal Program?”
If you are in a state with the RMP, you might need to provide your EBT card. You also can ask if there are any restrictions on what you can order with your card. It’s better to be prepared than to be surprised at the register.
Another tip: You can look for a sign posted at the Dairy Queen. Many restaurants that accept EBT will have a sign displayed near the entrance or the register. If you don’t see one, don’t be afraid to ask.
Alternatives and Considerations
If your local Dairy Queen doesn’t accept EBT, there are a few other options. Check to see if other nearby restaurants participate in the RMP. Many fast-food restaurants, like McDonald’s or Burger King, might participate in your state’s program.
You also might have other options:
- Grocery stores: You can use your EBT card to buy groceries to prepare your own meals.
- Community programs: Some local charities or food banks might offer free meals or food assistance.
Also, remember that SNAP rules and the RMP can change. States may adjust their eligibility requirements or which restaurants participate, so it’s a good idea to stay updated on the latest rules. To learn more, you can research the website for the Department of Social Services of your state.
Conclusion
So, does Dairy Queen accept EBT? The answer isn’t a simple yes or no. While it’s possible in some cases, it depends on the location, whether your state has a Restaurant Meal Program, and what you’re ordering. Your best bet is always to call your local Dairy Queen and ask, or look for a sign at the store. By understanding the rules and doing a little research, you can figure out how to best use your SNAP benefits and enjoy your favorite treats.