If you’re a Minnesotan wondering if you can use your EBT card to grab a sandwich at Subway, you’re in the right place! We’ll explore the rules and regulations surrounding EBT use at Subway restaurants in the state. Figuring out where you can use your benefits is important for managing your food budget. So, let’s dive in and see if Subway is an option for you when it comes to using your SNAP benefits.
The Basic Answer: Does Subway Accept EBT in Minnesota?
Yes, in Minnesota, Subway locations *can* accept EBT cards. But it’s not as simple as a blanket “yes” for every single Subway. The ability to use your EBT card really depends on the specific Subway store.

How the SNAP Program Works with Restaurants
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a federal program that provides food assistance to low-income individuals and families. It gives people money on an EBT card, which can be used like a debit card to buy groceries. But the rules change a little bit when it comes to restaurants. SNAP rules allow certain restaurants to accept EBT cards, but they have to meet specific requirements.
One of the main requirements is that the restaurant needs to be approved by the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) and the state. This approval lets them process EBT transactions. Only some restaurants are allowed to participate in the Restaurant Meals Program, making it a special benefit.
Participating in this program usually means the restaurant has to be able to offer meals at reduced costs to eligible people, and the locations will need to apply to be able to participate. This all means that not every Subway is signed up to be able to take EBT.
Many times, a restaurant will also need to be located in an area where a lot of people can’t cook their own meals to be a part of the program. For example, people who are homeless, or those who don’t have a place with a kitchen to cook at are more likely to use these SNAP benefits.
Restaurant Meal Program Explained
Minnesota has a Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) as part of its SNAP benefits. This program allows certain SNAP recipients to use their EBT cards to purchase prepared meals at participating restaurants. This can be a big help for people who might not be able to cook their own food or don’t have a place to store groceries.
- The RMP helps people who may have difficulty preparing meals at home due to disabilities, homelessness, or other challenges.
- The RMP provides an option for SNAP recipients to eat out or purchase a meal at a restaurant, expanding their access to food.
- Only specific Subway locations will be able to use this program.
Here are a couple of the common benefits of the Restaurant Meal Program:
- Provides a more practical solution for individuals unable to cook.
- Offers a convenient way to eat meals for those without permanent housing.
- Helps people with disabilities access more options for meals.
It’s important to understand that the RMP is a state-level program, and not every state offers it. Minnesota does, but this does not automatically mean that every Subway is signed up.
Finding Participating Subway Locations
Finding a Subway that accepts EBT in Minnesota requires a little bit of detective work. Subway, as a franchise, doesn’t have a single, easy-to-find list of locations that accept EBT. You can’t just assume every Subway is a participant. So how do you figure it out?
The best way is to call the specific Subway you want to visit and ask! This is the most reliable way to know for sure. Just grab the phone and say, “Do you accept EBT?”
- Check online search engines for customer reviews mentioning EBT acceptance.
- Use a website or app that lists SNAP-participating restaurants, if available.
- Look for signs at the Subway location indicating EBT acceptance.
Keep in mind that participating locations can change. The information may not always be 100% accurate. Below is an example table of possible information, but again, it’s always best to call first!
Location | Address | EBT Acceptance (Hypothetical) |
---|---|---|
Subway 1 | 123 Main St, Anytown | Maybe |
Subway 2 | 456 Oak Ave, Anytown | Yes |
Subway 3 | 789 Pine Ln, Anytown | No |
What You Can Buy with EBT at Subway (If Accepted)
If a Subway location accepts EBT, you’re typically limited to what SNAP considers “eligible food items.” This is a bit different than what you can buy with cash or a regular debit card.
You’ll most likely be able to buy things like sandwiches with the meat, cheese, and veggies, but the specifics might vary. For example, pre-packaged items may be allowed as well. It’s always a good idea to ask the Subway employees or look for signs that clarify which items are eligible. You might be able to purchase cold subs at participating locations, but hot items could vary.
- Eligible food: Cold sandwiches made to order, prepackaged salads.
- Non-eligible items: Hot items (may vary), drinks, chips, and other non-food items.
- The key is to focus on the core components of the sandwich: meat, bread, cheese, and vegetables.
Keep in mind, there can be some restrictions. For example, you probably can’t buy a side of chips and a soda with your EBT card. The focus is on the food that helps you eat the things your body needs to function.
- Subs made with healthy options
- Salads
- Other specific food items that follow the rules.
Tips for Using Your EBT Card at Subway
Before you go to Subway with your EBT card, it’s a good idea to be prepared. Doing a little bit of research will help you avoid surprises at the register. Keep in mind that the experience might be different depending on the location.
First, call the Subway location in advance to confirm that they take EBT. Also, before you order, ask the staff which items are eligible for purchase with EBT. This helps you choose items that align with the rules of the SNAP program. Be aware of the purchase restrictions to avoid any issues at the checkout. Also, be prepared to pay for any non-eligible items separately, perhaps with cash or a different card.
- Call the Subway to ask if they participate in EBT.
- Clarify which items are eligible for purchase with your card.
- Be prepared to pay for non-eligible items.
Here is a table with some helpful tips:
Tip | Explanation |
---|---|
Confirm Participation | Call the Subway beforehand to make sure they accept EBT. |
Know Eligible Items | Ask staff which items can be purchased with EBT. |
Separate Transactions | Be prepared to pay for non-eligible items separately. |
These simple steps can make your experience smoother, so that you can make sure you can pay and get what you want!
- Call to make sure the location accepts EBT.
- Ask the staff to clarify items.
- Pay separately for anything that can’t be bought with your EBT card.
Potential Changes and Updates
SNAP policies and restaurant participation can change. What’s true today might be different tomorrow. These kinds of things are always evolving. This means it’s important to stay up-to-date on the latest news.
Keep an eye on the Minnesota Department of Human Services website for any updates to the Restaurant Meals Program. This is where you’ll find the most reliable information. Also, any Subway franchise owner could change their business, so it’s wise to check before you go.
- Check the Minnesota Department of Human Services website for official updates.
- Be aware of potential changes to program rules and participating restaurants.
- Always verify EBT acceptance at your chosen Subway location before ordering.
Staying informed and being aware of the latest changes helps you get the most out of your EBT benefits and reduces any surprises. There could be updates that affect the foods that are available, so make sure you stay up-to-date!
- Check the Minnesota Department of Human Services website.
- Stay updated on the SNAP policies.
- Verify with Subway ahead of time.
These are the kinds of resources you can use to be aware of the changes.
Conclusion
So, can you use EBT at Subway in Minnesota? The answer is: it depends. While many Subways *may* participate in the Restaurant Meal Program, acceptance is not guaranteed at every location. To make sure you can use your EBT card, your best bet is to call the specific Subway you plan to visit and ask. This will help you avoid any potential problems and make sure you get to enjoy your sandwich!