Yes, El Pollo Loco accepts EBT cards at select locations. The fast-food chain participates in the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) in certain states, allowing you to purchase prepared meals in-store. Currently, 222 restaurants, primarily in Arizona and California, can process SNAP EBT payments.

How To Use EBT At El Pollo Loco

You can use your EBT card for in-restaurant dining only. EBT payments are not accepted for online orders or curbside pickup. Since not all locations participate, it's best to confirm with a specific restaurant before visiting. You can find your nearest branch using the official El Pollo Loco locator.

EBT acceptance is currently limited to participating restaurants in Arizona and California. In Arizona, locations are found in Maricopa County, including cities like Phoenix and Mesa. In California, you can find participating restaurants in counties like Los Angeles and Sacramento.

How To Pay With EBT At El Pollo Loco

When paying for your meal at a participating El Pollo Loco, the process is straightforward. Just follow these steps to complete your purchase using your EBT card.

• Let the cashier know you are paying with an EBT card, as they may need to process it differently than a standard debit card.

• Your card will be processed using a point-of-sale device. You will need to enter your PIN to authorize the payment.

• Make sure you have enough money in your EBT account to cover the total cost of your meal.

• In California, many RMP-participating restaurants can also accept EBT cash benefits for payment.

What Is The RMP And Who's Eligible?

The Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) is a state-level SNAP option. It allows you to buy ready-to-eat meals at approved restaurants with your EBT card if you cannot reasonably store, prepare, or cook food.

Eligibility Requirements

To use the RMP, all members of your household must be 60 or older, permanently disabled, or experiencing homelessness. Spouses of qualifying members are also covered. Your eligibility is coded on your EBT card, and the transaction will be declined if your household is not flagged for the program.

Participating States

The RMP is managed at the state level, so availability depends on where you live. As of mid-2025, the following states have implemented the program, allowing EBT purchases at participating restaurants.

• Arizona

• California

• Illinois

• Maryland

• Massachusetts

• Michigan

• New York

• Rhode Island

• Virginia

You do not receive extra SNAP dollars for this program. You simply use your normal monthly allotment. To find restaurants that are part of the RMP, you can check the USDA SNAP Retailer Locator.

What Can You Buy With An EBT Card At El Pollo Loco?

At participating El Pollo Loco locations, you can use your EBT card to purchase a wide range of hot, prepared meals. The menu focuses on healthier, flame-grilled options instead of fried foods.

• Fire-Grilled Chicken: You can purchase the restaurant’s signature citrus-marinated, flame-grilled chicken. This is available as individual pieces or as part of larger family meals that include sides like broccoli, beans, and rice.

• Burritos and Bowls: The menu includes various burritos and bowls, such as the Pollo Fit Bowls. These items combine grilled chicken with other fillings and vegetables for a complete meal.

• Tacos and Salads: Your EBT card can be used for fresh options like the Fiesta Salad or street tacos. These meals often feature grilled chicken and a choice of fresh toppings.

• Sides and Starters: A variety of side dishes are eligible for purchase. These include rice, beans, mac & cheese, chips with guacamole, and soups to complement your main course.

• Other Menu Items: You can also buy other prepared foods like quesadillas and nachos. Most food items on the menu are eligible, excluding any non-food merchandise.

Why Isn’t EBT Accepted at More El Pollo Loco Locations?

El Pollo Loco’s participation is tied to the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP), which is only available in certain states and counties. This geographical restriction is a major factor. Additionally, the RMP has strict eligibility rules. You can only use it if your household is elderly, disabled, or homeless, which narrows the customer base for EBT payments.

Since many El Pollo Loco restaurants are franchises, individual owners decide whether to accept EBT. Without a strong incentive, many may choose not to. There are also logistical hurdles, like reprogramming point-of-sale systems to process EBT payments correctly. This requires specific setup with a USDA Food and Nutrition Service account number.