Some American seniors can buy hot meals if they are receiving money from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). It used to be known as the Food Stamps program, so you may have heard that name too. Remember that if you qualify for this program, in general, you cannot buy hot meals. USDA does not allow it unless you belong to the RMP.
RMP is the SNAP Restaurant and Meals Program. This is an optional program so it is not available in all 50 States. Seniors may be eligible for RMP when they are unable to cook for themselves. Often, they qualify because they do not have a kitchen where they can normally cook. Not having a permanent housing is another reason. This will prevent beneficiaries from having a place to store food.
Which SNAP recipients can use Food Stamp benefits at eligible U.S. restaurants?
First and foremost, you must be a certified SNAP beneficiary. What is more, all household members must be either:
- 60 years old or older, so it is just for the elderly
- have a qualifying disability and get benefits
- experiencing homelessness
- a spouse of a SNAP recipient who qualifies for the Restaurant Meals Program
Where can seniors qualified for the SNAP RMP get hot meals?
As a matter of fact, USDA claims that it is only available in 9 States:
- Arizona
- California
- Illinois
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- New York
- Rhode Island
- Virginia
For your information, authorized restaurants vary by State. However, they usually are fast food chains, food establishments, and local diners that agree to serve hot meals to eligible Food Stamp RMP recipients. Some examples could be Subway, Taco Bell, Burger King, KFC, McDonald’s, Popeyes or Domino’s Pizza. Check if they offer this program before ordering in case they no longer have it.
If you have not applied for the Restaurant Meals Program but you meet the requirements and receive SNAP benefits, file as soon as possible and get hot meals in authorized restaurants in these 9 States.