Yes, select Church's Chicken locations accept EBT card payments through the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP). This is currently limited to participating restaurants in Arizona, allowing eligible SNAP recipients to purchase hot, prepared meals for in-restaurant dining.

How To Use EBT At Church's Chicken

You can use your EBT card for in-restaurant dining at Church's Chicken locations authorized for the RMP. Eligible purchases include menu items like fried chicken, sides, and desserts. EBT payments are not accepted for online orders, curbside pickup, or delivery services.

While the RMP operates in several states, Church's Chicken's participation is currently confirmed in Arizona, with locations in Chandler and Tucson. Since not all restaurants participate, even in Arizona, you should always call ahead to confirm EBT acceptance.

You can find nearby restaurants with the official Church's Texas Chicken locator before calling to verify their RMP status.

How To Pay With EBT

When paying at a participating Church's Chicken, the process is straightforward but specific to the RMP. Your card will only be approved if you are enrolled in the program and the restaurant is an authorized vendor.

• Present your EBT card to the cashier. The point-of-sale system is specially programmed to verify your RMP eligibility.

• You will need to enter your PIN to authorize the payment from your SNAP account balance.

• If you are not eligible for the RMP, your EBT card will be declined, even if you have sufficient funds.

• Remember to bring an alternative payment method for any non-food items or if your transaction is declined.

What Is The RMP And Who's Eligible

The Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) is a state option for SNAP. It allows you to buy prepared meals at approved restaurants if you cannot easily store or cook your own food.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the RMP, your household must meet specific criteria. This program is designed for individuals who face challenges with preparing their own meals at home.

You are eligible if everyone in your household is 60 or older, has a permanent disability, or is experiencing homelessness. The spouse of a qualifying person is also covered under this rule.

Your eligibility is coded directly onto your EBT card. When you pay, the restaurant's system checks for this code. If you are not flagged as eligible, the transaction will be declined.

The RMP does not provide extra SNAP funds. You will use your regular monthly benefit allotment to pay for restaurant meals.

Participating States

The RMP is a state-run option, so it is not available everywhere. The program is currently active in several states, with some expanding their programs or launching them soon.

• Arizona

• California

• Illinois

• Maryland

• Massachusetts

• Michigan

• New York

• Rhode Island

• Virginia

You can find approved restaurants using the official SNAP Retailer Locator from the USDA. Remember that restaurants must be authorized by both the state and the USDA to accept RMP payments.

What Can You Buy With An EBT Card At Church's Chicken?

At participating Church's Chicken locations, you can use your EBT card to purchase a variety of hot, prepared meals. The menu features their signature Southern-style cooking, from chicken to classic sides.

• Fried Chicken and Tenders: You can purchase their famous Southern-style fried chicken, available in various combos and family meals. Chicken tenders are also an eligible option.

• Sandwiches and Wraps: The menu includes a selection of chicken sandwiches and wraps. These often come in combo meals with a side and a drink.

• Seafood Options: In addition to poultry, you can buy other protein options like crispy fish and shrimp, which are available at some locations.

• Side Dishes: Classic sides are eligible, including mashed potatoes, coleslaw, fried okra, and corn on the cob. Their signature Honey-Butter Biscuits are also a popular choice.

• Desserts: You can finish your meal with a sweet treat. Eligible desserts include items like apple pie and the Texas sheet cake cup.

Menu availability can differ between restaurants. Specific SNAP-eligible items may vary by location, so what you can buy at one spot might not be available at another.

Why Isn’t EBT Accepted at More Church's Chicken Locations?

Wider EBT acceptance at Church's Chicken is primarily restricted by the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP). As a state-run initiative, it isn't available nationwide, which automatically makes most locations ineligible. Furthermore, the RMP has strict eligibility rules, typically covering only SNAP recipients who are elderly, disabled, or homeless. This greatly reduces the number of potential EBT customers at any given restaurant.

Another factor is that many Church's Chicken restaurants are independently owned franchises, leaving the decision to join the RMP up to each owner. Opting in involves logistical hurdles, like reprogramming point-of-sale systems with a specific USDA account number to process EBT transactions. Without a strong corporate mandate or financial incentive, many franchisees may forgo the process.