Does IHOP Take EBT Card, Snap Or Food Stamps – The largest food assistance program in America, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, is assisting millions of Americans pay for their food groceries and even fast food chains. The Pew Research Centre’s fiscal report as of April 2023 reveals that nearly 41.9 million people belonging to 22.2 million American households have already received SNAP benefits accounting for 12.5% of the entire US population.
If you are enrolled in the SNAP program and enjoy IHOP pancakes, breakfast, lunch and dinner menu items then you must wonder whether this popular breakfast chain restaurant is accepting EBT benefits as a payment method or not. Sadly IHOP has not enrolled in the Restaurant Meals Program so it is not authorized to accept EBT or SNAP benefits from SNAP beneficiaries. Our comprehensive guide will provide an overview of IHOP’s policies on SNAP EBT and will give a list of alternate fast food places where you can enjoy flavorful meals using your food stamp benefits. Let’s dive into the nitty gritty details of IHOP policies on SNAP EBT.
Highlights of this Post
Key Takeaways
- IHOP doesn’t accept EBT/food stamps due to not being in the RMP.
- RMP allows SNAP recipients to use benefits at authorized restaurants in some states (AZ, CA, etc.).
- EBT card can be used at alternate fast-food restaurants like Denny’s, Burger King (limited locations).
- Check for RMP signage or contact your local SNAP agency for participating restaurants.
What Is SNAP/ EBT?
The Electronic Benefits Transfer refers to an electronic system that enables SNAP recipients to authorize the transfer of their government food benefits from the federal account to the participating retailer account to pay for the products purchased.
The EBT has been implemented in all 50 U.S. states since 2024 and even in US territories like Puerto Rico, the District of Columbia, Guam and the Mandarin Island. The EBT card works similarly to any debit or credit card and is loaded with food stamps or cash benefits. You can use the EBT benefits at grocery stores or RMP-approved fast food restaurants.
SNAP recipients also wonder: Does Wawa Accept SNAP, EBT, or Food Stamps?
What Is The Restaurant Meals Program?
The Restaurant Meals Program has been an integral part of the food stamp program since 1977. The program enables qualified disabled, elderly and homeless SNAP recipients to purchase food and authorized restaurants.
SNAP leaves it to individual states or counties to enroll in the Restaurant Meals Program and every restaurant has to seek authorization individually before processing EBT payments.
The primary purpose of the restaurant meals program is to expand SNAP benefits to those who are not able to cook food due to their old age, disability or homelessness and allow them to access hot prepared meals at participating restaurants.
Who Is Eligible For The Restaurant Meals Program?
Not everyone living in an RMP-approved state can purchase hot-prepared meals with their EBT card. Following is the list of criteria that you need to fulfill to apply for the Restaurant MealsProgram.
- Be an elderly person (at least sixty years of age)
- Be a disabled individual or show you are receiving disability benefits from the government
- Be homeless with no regular fixed nighttime residents or proof you’re living in a halfway house, altar or place that is not suitable for sleeping.
- Must live in a state that is RMP authorized for instance Arizona, California, Rhode Island, Illinois, Michigan and Maryland
- Must be a spouse of a SNAP recipient who is also enrolled in the RMP program
What is IHOP?
IHOP stands for International House of Pancakes and is a renowned breakfast chain restaurant with 1700 store locations throughout America, Mexico, Canada and other parts of the world. The chain opened its store in California in 1958 and is well known for serving pancake offerings. However over the decades the chain has expanded its menu items to include a variety of breakfast favorites.
This American multinational pancake house restaurant chain is well known for serving American breakfast food and is owned by Dine Brands. Following is the list of areas served by IHOP:
- United States including Puerto Rico
- Mexico
- Canada
- Guatemala Kuwait
- United Arab Emirates
- Bahrain
- Qatar
- Egypt
- Pakistan
- Ecuador
- India
- Peru
- Panama
- Saudi Arabia
The focus of the restaurant is on breakfast food however it also serves an extensive menu of lunch and dinner items. Most of the restaurant chain locations are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week and the working hours are between 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM. You can find pancakes, french toast, waffles, omelets, burgers, salads, sandwiches and various other items from the IHOP. The company has around 1841 locations in America, the South, Midland, East Asia.
In Which States Can You Find IHOP Restaurant Locations?
No matter whether you are craving for one of IHOP restaurant’s popular breakfast, lunch, dinner or late-night dining items you can find a neighboring IHOP shop near you that is ready to serve you.
The IHOP family restaurant chain has been serving customers for 65 years and offers a wide array of food in breakfast, lunch and dinner categories. People of all ages are fond of this restaurant chain that provides a convenient and affordable dining experience with friendly and warm service.
Following is the list of states where you can find your IHOP restaurant.
- Alabama (15)
- Alaska (4)
- Arizona (42)
- California (225)
- Colorado (36)
- Connecticut (11)
- Delaware (8)
- District of Columbia (2)
- Florida (144)
- Georgia (84)
- Hawaii (6)
- Idaho (7)
- Illinois (44)
- Indiana (27)
- Iowa (11)
- Kansas (31)
- Kentucky (12)
- Louisiana (30)
- Maine (4)
- Maryland (54)
- Massachusetts (22)
- Michigan (28)
- Minnesota (6)
- Mississippi (13)
- Missouri (31)
- Montana (4)
- Nebraska (7)
- Nevada (24)
- New Hampshire (6)
- New Jersey (50)
- New Mexico (15)
- New York (16)
- North Carolina (52)
- North Dakota (2)
- Ohio (37)
- Oklahoma (36)
- Oregon (13)
- Pennsylvania (27)
- Rhode Island (5)
- South Carolina (31)
- South Dakota ( 2)
- Tennessee (35)
- Texas (219)
- Utah (20)
- Vermont (1)
- Virginia (67)
- Washington (19)
- West Virginia (9)
- Wisconsin (18)
- Wyoming (1)
- Puerto Rico (6)
People also look for: Does the Amish Market Take SNAP, EBT, or Food Stamps?
Do IHOP Take Food Stamps or EBT Cards?
IHOP is a go-to spot for many pancake lovers. SNAP recipients who pay for their groceries or food with EBT cards wonder whether they can use their SNAP funds at IHOP restaurants.
Unfortunately, IHOP is not accepting food stamps or EBT cards as a direct form of method from SNAP beneficiaries. This is because the restaurant chain is not participating in the Restaurant Meals Program.
As per the IHOP corporate policy food stamp cards or EBT is not accepted as a direct method of payment however franchise locations in some states with flexible rules may provide options like online orders are gift cards so you must check with your local restaurant.
Why Doesn’t IHOP Accept EBT, SNAP or Food Stamps?
Individual restaurants in approved states have to seek authorization from the USDA to process it. The SNAP authority leaves it to individual states and restaurants to decide if they want to enroll in the initiative or not. The company has decided not to enroll in the RMP SNAP program to help the elderly, dismounted homeless people use their SNAP benefits to access hot prepared meals.
A good alternative to IHOP is DoorDash, Walmart or Target which accepts EBT payments online and enables you to shop conveniently from the comfort of your home. However, IHOP customers have to use other payment methods for its breakfast, lunch or dinner items like debit cards, credit cards, gift cards and in some cases Apple Pay.
What Payment Methods Are Accepted By IHOP?
The popular pancake house and breakfast chain IHOP is a go-to spot for many individuals in the United States of America. As you know the restaurant chain does not accept EBT or food stamps as a method of payment, let’s cover the accepted payment methods that you can use to enjoy meals here.
Credit And Debit Cards
IHOP accepts major debit and credit cards including American Express, MasterCard and Discover.
Apple Pay
A few IHOP locations are accepting Apple Pay as a method of payment while most locations are not supporting Apple Pay or Google Pay.
Cash
Cash is a traditional payment method that is accepted at all IHOP store locations.
Third Party Delivery Services.
Customers can order online from IHOP through third-party delivery services like DoorDash which accepts various payment methods including Apple Pay or Google Pay.
IHOP Gift Cards
Special cards that are issued by IHOP can be used for purchasing meals at IHOP restaurant locations.
The specific payment method may vary as per your location so it is a good idea to check with your local IHOP restaurant. While most of the competitors of IHOP in the food and beverage industry integrate Google Pay and Apple Pay into their payment system, IHOP prioritizes security and convenience for its customers and does not support modern payment options.
Read also: Does Lidl Accept Food Stamps or EBT?
How To Save Money With IHOP Rewards?
The International House of Pancakes (IHOP) provides a loyalty program known as MyHop to reward its frequent dinners. By joining this reward program members can get a wide array of benefits and a seamless dining experience at the breakfast chain. Read on to learn how you can get IHOP rewards.
- Exclusive Offers: MyHop provides MyHop members with amazing offers and news about the latest IHOP promotions and menu items. In other words, you will be the first to know about the new dishes and exclusive deals.
- Anniversary Gift: Frequent diners get a treat in the form of a free stack of pancakes on the anniversary of joining MyHop membership.
- Sign Up Bonus: On signing up for MyHop new members get a free full stack of pancakes that acts as a welcome gift. This signup bonus offer is redeemable.
- Easy Online Ordering: Joining MyHop enables you to order your preferred IHOP dishes online without much hassle. You can also earn points on your purchase and redeem for free menu items.
- Birthday Treat: MyHop members can celebrate their special day like a birthday with IHOP. Members get a free stack of pancakes on their birthday. The restaurant chain aims to make your birthday memorable in a delicious way.
- Personalized Experience: Joining MyHop will help you get deals that match your taste and preferences like classic buttermilk pancakes or savory omelets. You get offers and deals based on your preference
To make the most of your dollars you can check the MyHop website or app to learn the latest promotions before placing any order. In this way, you can take advantage of ongoing discounts or deals. IHOP also introduces International Bank of Pancakes or IBOP, a unique program that enables frequent diners to own and redeem PanCoins for exclusive perks and delightful treats.
Read our next guide: Does Publix Take EBT Cards?
What Are The General Acceptable EBT Items?
The USDA has set some guidelines regarding the type of food that you can purchase with your SNAP benefits or EBT card.
- Milk and Dairy Products: All types of milk, yogurt, cheese and butter are eligible
- Fruits and vegetables: All types of fresh, canned or frozen fruits and vegetables. This also includes dried fruits and vegetables.
- Meat, poultry and fish: This comprises all forms of meat such as pork, beef, turkey, chicken, fish and lamb
- Bread and cereals: All types of bread, crackers, cereals, pasta, oatmeal and rice are allowed
- Snacks and desserts: Chips, cakes, cookies and other snack items are eligible as long as they do not have any vitamins or minerals in them.
- Energy drinks: Specific energy drinks are allowed for purchase using an EBT card if they are labeled as Nutrition Facts.
- Seeds and Plants: SNAP participants can purchase plants and seeds to grow their produce.
Read also: Does Piggly Wiggly Accept Food Stamps, SNAP, or EBT?
What Are The Items You Can’t Purchase With Your EBT Card?
The SNAP benefits are limited to food and groceries that come with nutritional value. In other words, you cannot purchase alcoholic tobacco products, hot food orad and non-edible food with your SNAP benefits cards. In the below section, we have covered the list of items that you cannot purchase with your SNAP card.
- Alcoholic beverages such as liquor, wine, and beer
- Prepared hot food
- Cigarette and tobacco-containing products
- Drugs, vitamins, medicines, and supplements
- Non-food items like pet foods
- Cleaning supplies
- Laundry detergent
- Dry ice
- Fuel pumps
- Diapers
- Shampoo
- Live animals except (fish and shellfish)
- Gas
- Clothing
- Hygiene and sanitary products
- Cosmetics and skincare products
- Paper products
List Of Alternate Fast Food Restaurants That Accept EBT
Denny’s
The best alternative to IHOP is Denny’s, a popular American table service dinner-style restaurant that offers impressive breakfast options like pancakes, bacon strips, sausage, coffee, lunch and dinner options. Around 50 Denny’s restaurants are accepting EBT in California.
Burger King
Burger King in a few Arizona and California countries accept SNAP payments. If you’re not living anywhere near these two states that are RMP-approved then there are other ways to save money on your Burger King menu. Download the app and rack up points that you can translate into free food. Nearly 145 Burger King restaurants are accepting EBT payments in California.
Carl’s Jr.
Carl’s Jr. offers mouth-watering charbroiled burgers, sandwiches, chicken options, crispy onion rings, salads and other hearty Meals to its customers. Nearly 150 restaurants of Carl’s Jr. are accepting EBT in select Arizona and California counties.
Dairy Queen
If you are a resident of Arizona then you can use your EBT card at Dairy Queen to get burgers, ice cream and blizzards. Most of the EBT-friendly Dairy Queen locations are in Arizona.
Del Taco
Del Taco is popular among Americans for its tacos, quesadillas, burritos, and even burgers, shakes, fries etc. Over 140 Del Taco store locations in California accept EBT payments. If you are fond of Mexican and American flavors then you can enjoy Del Taco food with your EBT card.
Domino’s Pizza
Domino’s Pizza is a renowned pizza delivery chain that accepts SNAP benefits in 60 California store locations. Domino’s Pizza participates in the CalFresh Restaurant Meals Program and enables SNAP recipients to get satisfaction using EBT benefits. Besides pizza, you can enjoy pasta, desserts, sandwiches, chicken wings and a variety of items here.
EL Pollo Loco
If you love Mexican-inspired cuisine then you can enjoy your favorite menu from El Pollo Loco using your EBT benefits. These include chicken burritos, flame-grilled chicken, tacos, rice, beans etc. Nearly 228 El Pollo Loco restaurants are accepting EBT benefits in California. The restaurant provides delicious and healthy options to SNAP recipients.
Jack-In-The-Box
Jack-In-The-Box is popular for serving burgers, tacos, breakfast items, milkshakes and chicken sandwiches to its customers. From tacos and burgers to breakfast items and even late-night snacks SNAP recipients can find a variety of food options here and pay their food bills using their EBT card. Nearly 475 Jack-In-The-Box restaurants are accepting EBT in California State.
KFC
KFC is a popular choice when it comes to looking for fast food restaurants that accept EBT. They are famous for their flavorful and crispy fried chicken including sandwiches, buckets of mashed potato, biscuits, cold beverages etc. A lot of KFC stores in Arizona and California accept EBT.
Papa John’s
Papa John’s is a popular pizza delivery and take-out chain that is known for its pizza with signature garlic butter sauce and fresh ingredients. From specialty pizza to classic pepperoni you can find a wide array of pizza options at Papa John’s. Around 8 locations in California accept food stamp benefits as a method of payment.
Pizza Hut
The giant pizza chain Pizza Hut is not only popular for its vast collection of pizza menus but also sites like pasta, chicken wings, cheesy garlic knots and breadsticks. Nearly 225 Pizza Hut stores are accepting food stamp benefits in California. SNAP recipients can fulfill their pizza cravings with the help of their EBT cards.
Rally’s Hamburger
Rally’s Hamburger is a fast food chain that provides quick and comforting meals, especially burgers, hot dogs sandwiches and chicken items. They accept EBT in certain Arizona and California counties through the Restaurant Meals Program.
Subway
Subway is a popular fast food restaurant known for its footlong sandwiches that participate in the Restaurant Meals Program. Approximately 500 Subway stores are accepting EBT in California and Arizona.
Taco Bell
Taco Bell is a popular fast-food chain that serves tacos, nachos, burritos and many other Mexican-inspired menus. The fast food chain provides a taste and convenient option for SNAP recipients to enjoy meals using their EBT benefits. Nearly 20 Taco Bell locations in Arizona and California accept EBT benefits.
Wendy’s
A popular fast food chain in America that is known for burgers and frosty with 6000+ locations throughout the country is Wendy’s. You can enjoy delicious chicken sandwiches, salads, sides, and square-shaped burgers here and enjoy a convenient and satisfying meal. Around 85 Wendy’s restaurants are accepting EBT in California.
Popeyes
The beloved fried chicken chain Popeyes has been serving customers for more than 50 years in Louisiana and has also spread to other parts of the country. The fast food restaurant is enrolled in the RMP program and accepts EBT in Arizona and California.
Church’s Chicken
The fried chicken restaurant chain known as Church’s Chicken accepts EBT as a method of payment in 12 Arizona counties. These locations are Casa Grande, Douglas, Nogales, Phoenix, Tucson and Winslow. The restaurant is popular for family meals, tenders, chicken meal combos and other side dishes.
Louisiana Famous Fried Chicken
Louisiana Famous Fried Chicken is a beloved restaurant in America known for serving fried chicken items and a variety of sites. The restaurant is accepted EBT in nearly 12 California counties. Apart from crispy fried chicken, you can also enjoy mouth-watering sides that include cold slow, cornbread, beans and rice.
Mcdonald’s
The most affordable and popular fast food chain known for serving burgers and a variety of fast food is McDonald’s. McDonald’s is accepting EBT in many Arizona and California counties.
Tam’s Burger
The famous family-style drive-through restaurant Tam’s Burger accepts EBT in Southern California and is known for serving fresh, high-quality, comfortable and quick-service food. You can purchase breakfast burritos, chili fries, chicken tenders and many other items with your EBT card in Southern California.
The Habit Burger Grill
Another RMP-approved fast-casual restaurant chain that accepts EBT in California is Habit Burger Grill. The restaurant is famous for serving sandwiches, char-grilled burgers for milkshakes, salads, soups, chicken, fish, kids meals and beverages.
Read also: What can you Shop Online With EBT?
How To Locate Restaurants That Accept EBT?
Locating an RMP approved restaurant that accepts food stamp benefits card or EBT is not a challenging task today. All that you need to do is look for signage that states Participating Restaurant : SNAP Restaurant Meals Program and has a Fork and Knife logo displayed on the window or the door of the restaurant.
A lot of fast food restaurants who are accepting EBT keep a sign board with the writing “We Accept EBT Card or EBT Card Holders Are Welcome”. To learn more details you can contact your local SNAP agency and learn the list of restaurants that are accepting EBT. Once you have located the participating restaurant, using your EBT card is a simple and straightforward process. You simply have to swipe your EBT card and enter your 4 digit PIN to authorize the transaction.
Conclusion
Finding fast food chains or restaurants that accept EBT is significant for SNAP recipients in RMP-approved states that gives them accessibility to hot prepared meals. Unfortunately the famous American breakfast chain IHOP has not enrolled in the Restaurant Meals Programmed so it is not authorized to accept EBT at any of its stores locations. In this case customers have to use an alternate payment source like debit card, credit card, gift cards or Apple Pay in some stores for making eligible purchases. To find convenience stores or grocery stores that accept EBT as a method of payment you can make use of the SNAP Retailer Locator. Our guide has provided a list of additional restaurants in RMP-approved states that accept EBT.
We hope this article has been informative enough to give you all the details you need regarding EBT policies at IHOP. You can learn more about the government grants and financial assistance program at the Get Government Grants’ blog section today.