No, Chili's does not accept EBT card payments at any of its locations. This policy applies to all orders, including dine-in, curbside pickup, and online delivery services.

Restaurants can only accept SNAP benefits for prepared meals through the state-run Restaurant Meals Program (RMP). Chili's has chosen not to participate in this program in any state.

Because Chili's does not take part in the RMP, you cannot use your EBT card for payment at any of its restaurants nationwide. This is a corporate decision, as restaurants must apply to be authorized to accept EBT.

What Is The RMP And Who's Eligible

The Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) is a state-run option that lets certain SNAP recipients buy prepared meals at approved restaurants. You can use your existing EBT benefits for these purchases.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify, all members of your household must be either 60 or older, permanently disabled, or experiencing homelessness. Spouses of qualifying individuals are also covered under this program.

Your eligibility is coded onto your EBT card. When a restaurant processes the card, the transaction will be declined if your household is not flagged for the RMP.

Participating States

The RMP is a state-level decision, and not all states participate. As of mid-2025, the following states have implemented the program for their residents:

• Arizona

• California

• Illinois

• Maryland

• Massachusetts

• Michigan

• New York

• Rhode Island

• Virginia

This program does not provide you with extra SNAP funds. You use your regular monthly allotment. States can also set their own rules for vendors and pricing.

Restaurants must apply to both their state agency and the USDA to join. You can find approved locations using the SNAP Retailer Locator.

Why Doesn't Chili's Accept EBT?

Chili's decision not to accept EBT is a corporate one, primarily because it has opted out of the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP). The RMP is the only pathway for restaurants to process SNAP benefits for prepared meals. However, the program is only active in a handful of states and is restricted to specific households, which significantly narrows the potential market.

Participating in the RMP also involves operational hurdles. Restaurants must apply for authorization and program their point-of-sale (POS) systems to handle EBT transactions, which comes with compliance paperwork. For a large national chain like Chili's, the administrative effort and cost to implement this across its locations may outweigh the benefits, leading them to forgo the program entirely.