Trying to figure out where you can use your SNAP benefits (also known as EBT cards) can be tricky! You want to make sure you can buy the food you need, but not all restaurants or stores accept them. Let’s dive into whether Panera Bread takes EBT cards, and everything else you should know about using your benefits there.
Does Panera Take EBT? The Short Answer
The short answer is: it depends. Panera Bread, as a general rule, is not set up to accept EBT cards directly at all of their locations. However, there are some exceptions.
Understanding SNAP & Restaurant Meals Programs
SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) is a government program that helps people with low incomes buy food. It provides benefits through an EBT card, which works like a debit card. Usually, you can only use SNAP benefits to buy groceries at authorized retailers, like supermarkets and grocery stores. This can make it difficult if you rely on prepared food because you have trouble getting groceries.
Some states have a Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) that can make things easier. If you live in a state that offers an RMP, people who qualify (like the elderly, homeless, or disabled) can use their EBT cards at participating restaurants. This is because they might not be able to easily cook food at home, so the RMP helps them get meals.
So, while a lot of places don’t accept EBT for prepared food, if a location does, the RMP is usually why. If you have an EBT, check to see if your state has an RMP, since this is a huge factor!
But, what happens if you don’t live in a state with a Restaurant Meals Program? Well, then you won’t be able to use your EBT, generally. Check to see if your state is one of the states that allow an RMP!
Panera’s Restaurant Meals Program Participation
Whether or not a specific Panera location accepts EBT usually depends on the state and sometimes the local municipality. The best way to know is to ask.
- States with RMP often have a list of participating restaurants.
- Check your local government’s website for an updated list
- Call the specific Panera you plan to visit.
Keep in mind that even if a Panera *can* accept EBT, they usually only accept it for eligible customers within the RMP. That means you might need to show some form of identification to prove you are eligible.
Always call ahead or check the specific location’s policies before ordering, as they vary!
Menu Items and EBT Restrictions
Even if a Panera participates in the RMP, there are usually some restrictions on what you can buy with your EBT card. This is similar to shopping in a grocery store, in that not everything can be purchased with EBT.
Things that are typically allowed include:
- Meals like soups, salads, sandwiches, and entrees.
- Beverages, like coffee, tea, and fountain drinks.
- Bread and pastries.
Things that might not be allowed, or have limits, include:
- Prepared food to take home and heat.
- Packaged goods like chips and cookies.
- Other non-food items.
If you are unsure if an item will be allowed, just ask the cashier before you order.
How to Pay with EBT at Panera (If Accepted)
If a Panera location accepts EBT, the process is pretty easy. When you’re ready to pay, tell the cashier that you’ll be using your EBT card. They will then process your payment.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Tell the cashier you’re paying with EBT. |
| 2 | Swipe or insert your EBT card. |
| 3 | Enter your PIN number. |
| 4 | Complete the transaction. |
Make sure you have your PIN number ready! You’ll need it to access your SNAP benefits. Keep your receipt to track your spending and remaining balance.
And finally, some Panera locations might only allow EBT payments in person at the register, not through online ordering or the app.
Finding Panera Locations That Accept EBT
Finding a Panera that takes EBT can take a little bit of detective work. The best way to do it is to:
- Check with your state’s Department of Social Services or similar agency.
- See if the state or county has a website that lists all participating restaurants.
- Some Panera locations will have a sign on their door saying whether or not they take EBT.
If you can’t find any information online, calling your local Panera is always a good idea. The easiest thing to do is just call the restaurant to ask, before you go there to order.
Once you find a location that accepts EBT, keep this information handy! You may also want to check online, since the list of stores that accept EBT could change.
Other Ways to Save at Panera
Even if you can’t use EBT at a particular Panera, there are still ways to save money on your meal!
You could:
- Look for deals and specials.
- Join Panera’s loyalty program for rewards.
- Take advantage of their “You Pick Two” options to get more food for your money.
Another option is to consider buying a gift card from another source. Sometimes you can get discounts on gift cards from third-party sellers, too. Be aware, however, that you will not be able to pay with your EBT.
Eating out can sometimes be expensive, but with some research, you can find ways to have a nice meal without breaking the bank.
Alternatives to Panera if EBT is Unavailable
If you find that you can’t use your EBT card at Panera, don’t worry! There are still many other places where you can get a meal.
Here are some suggestions:
- Look for local restaurants that participate in the Restaurant Meals Program, if applicable.
- Check out fast-food restaurants.
- Consider cooking at home.
It might be worth doing some research to see what the other local restaurants are doing in your area. There may even be a list of other options online, like websites or apps. And, of course, always make sure to check your location’s policies ahead of time, too.
The important thing is to make sure you have access to healthy food, no matter where you get it.
So, you’ve learned the ins and outs of using your EBT card at Panera! Always remember to check with your local Panera, and check the policies of your state, to be sure you’re in compliance. If you can’t use your EBT card at Panera, don’t sweat it. Plenty of other options are available. Happy dining!