Generally, standalone Starbucks stores do not accept EBT. However, you may be able to use your SNAP benefits at licensed Starbucks kiosks located inside grocery stores and retailers like Target or Safeway, as these locations follow the host store's EBT policy.

Using EBT at Starbucks

EBT is not accepted for in-store purchases at corporate-operated Starbucks. For licensed locations inside grocery stores, you can buy SNAP-eligible items. This includes pre-packaged cold sandwiches, bottled drinks, packaged coffee beans, and other snacks. Hot, prepared food and drinks are not eligible for purchase with EBT.

Starbucks does not accept EBT for online orders through its app, Uber Eats, or other delivery platforms. Similarly, EBT is not an accepted payment method for curbside pickup orders.

The company does not participate in the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP). This means you cannot use your EBT card to buy hot, prepared items at any Starbucks location, even in states with an active RMP.

You can find licensed stores by checking the official Starbucks store locator for locations inside retailers that accept EBT, such as Target and Safeway. There are over 6,300 such licensed stores in the U.S.

How to Pay With EBT at Starbucks

When paying at a licensed Starbucks kiosk inside a grocery store, the process is straightforward. Here are the steps to follow to complete your purchase using your EBT card.

• Before you shop, it's best to confirm with the cashier or the grocery store’s customer service desk that the Starbucks kiosk accepts EBT.

• When you pay, you will need to separate your SNAP-eligible items from any other purchases. You must cover the cost of non-eligible items with a different form of payment.

• At the register, swipe your EBT card and select the SNAP option. You will then be prompted to enter your PIN to authorize the transaction.

What Is The RMP and Who's Eligible?

The Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) is a state-level option within SNAP. It allows certain households to buy ready-to-eat meals at approved restaurants using their EBT benefits. You can use the USDA's SNAP Retailer Locator to find participating locations.

Eligibility Requirements

To use the RMP, your entire household must be composed of individuals who are aged 60 or over, have a permanent disability, or are experiencing homelessness. Spouses of qualifying members are also eligible. This status is coded onto your EBT card for verification when you pay.

Participating States

Because the RMP is a state-run option, it is not available nationwide. The following states currently offer the program, though some are still in the process of a full rollout.

• Arizona

• California

• Illinois

• Maryland

• Massachusetts

• Michigan

• New York

• Rhode Island

• Virginia

If you qualify for the program, you will use your standard monthly SNAP allotment to pay for meals. No additional funds are issued. Restaurants must be approved by both their state agency and the USDA to accept RMP payments.

What Can You Buy With an EBT Card at Starbucks?

You can use your SNAP benefits to purchase a variety of packaged food and drinks. Eligible items are those intended for home consumption and must have a "Nutrition Facts" label.

• Packaged beverages: This includes bottled Frappuccinos, canned cold brews, juices, and other sealed cold drinks. Custom-made drinks from the barista are not eligible.

• Coffee for home brewing: You can buy packaged whole bean or ground coffee. Starbucks' K-Cup pods, like the French Roast, are also eligible for purchase.

• Packaged snacks: A selection of snacks like chips, crackers, cookies, and protein bars can be bought with EBT, as long as they are individually packaged and labeled for nutrition.

• Cold pre-packaged foods: Look for items like cold sandwiches and snack boxes in the grab-and-go section. The availability of these items can vary by location.

Why Isn’t EBT Accepted at More Starbucks Locations?

The main reason for limited EBT acceptance is that Starbucks is classified as a restaurant, not an essential food retailer. The primary way for restaurants to accept SNAP for hot items is through the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP). Starbucks does not participate in this program, which automatically excludes its corporate-owned stores from accepting EBT for prepared food and drinks.

The RMP itself has major limitations. It's only available in a handful of states and serves a narrow group of people, including the elderly and those with disabilities. For a national chain, the incentive to adopt a program with such a small addressable market is low. There are also logistical challenges in programming payment systems to handle EBT transactions correctly.