Jack in the Box (JACK) 10-Q 20 Feb 14 2014 Q1 Quarterly report Financial data

Document_And_Entity_Informatio

Document And Entity Information	4 Months Ended
	Jan. 19, 2014	Feb. 14, 2014
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]	'	'
Entity Registrant Name	'JACK IN THE BOX INC /NEW/	'
Entity Central Index Key	'0000807882	'
Current Fiscal Year End Date	'--09-28	'
Entity Filer Category	'Large Accelerated Filer	'
Document Type	'10-Q	'
Document Period End Date	19-Jan-14	'
Document Fiscal Year Focus	'2014	'
Document Fiscal Period Focus	'Q1	'
Amendment Flag	'false	'
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	'	41,896,286

Condensed_Consolidated_Balance

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Jan. 19, 2014	Sep. 29, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current assets:	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	$9,933	$9,644
Accounts and other receivables, net	40,695	41,749
Inventories	7,862	7,181
Prepaid expenses	28,030	19,970
Deferred income taxes	26,685	26,685
Assets held for sale and leaseback	5,543	11,875
Other current assets	323	108
Total current assets	119,071	117,212
Property and equipment, at cost	1,527,023	1,516,913
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization	-767,143	-746,054
Property and equipment, net	759,880	770,859
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill)	16,207	16,390
Goodwill	149,235	148,988
Other assets, net	268,435	265,760
Total assets	1,312,828	1,319,209
Current liabilities:	'	'
Current maturities of long-term debt	20,854	20,889
Accounts payable	27,394	36,899
Accrued liabilities	132,839	153,886
Total current liabilities	181,087	211,674
Long-term debt, net of current maturities	399,098	349,393
Other long-term liabilities	277,280	286,124
Stockholders’ equity:	'	'
Preferred stock $0.01 par value, 15,000,000 shares authorized, none issued	0	0
Common stock $0.01 par value, 175,000,000 shares authorized, 79,381,880 and 78,515,171 issued, respectively	794	785
Capital in excess of par value	323,616	296,764
Retained earnings	1,204,109	1,171,823
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	-61,433	-62,662
Treasury stock, at cost, 37,504,794 and 35,926,269 shares, respectively	-1,011,723	-934,692
Total stockholders’ equity	455,363	472,018
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	$1,312,828	$1,319,209

Condensed_Consolidated_Balance1

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Jan. 19, 2014	Sep. 29, 2013
Stockholders’ equity:	'	'
Preferred stock, par value (usd per share)	$0.01	$0.01
Preferred stock, shares authorized	15,000,000	15,000,000
Preferred stock, shares issued	0	0
Common stock, par value (usd per share)	$0.01	$0.01
Common stock, shares authorized	175,000,000	175,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	79,381,880	78,515,171
Treasury stock at cost, shares	37,504,794	35,926,269

Condensed_Consolidated_Stateme

Condensed Consolidated Statements Of Earnings (USD $)	4 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 19, 2014	Jan. 20, 2013
Revenues:	'	'
Company restaurant sales	$338,828	$348,906
Franchise revenues	111,253	105,429
Total revenue	450,081	454,335
Company restaurant costs:	'	'
Food and packaging	108,238	112,537
Payroll and employee benefits	93,816	99,576
Occupancy and other	74,709	77,369
Total company restaurant costs	276,763	289,482
Franchise costs	55,510	52,488
Selling, general and administrative expenses	59,156	66,686
Impairment and other charges, net	1,909	3,253
Gains on the sale of company-operated restaurants	-461	-748
Total operating costs and expenses	392,877	411,161
Earnings from operations	57,204	43,174
Interest expense, net	4,542	5,365
Earnings from continuing operations and before income taxes	52,662	37,809
Income taxes	19,652	11,700
Earnings from continuing operations	33,010	26,109
Losses from discontinued operations, net of income tax benefit	-724	-5,420
Net earnings	$32,286	$20,689
Net earnings per share - basic:	'	'
Earnings from continuing operations (usd per share)	$0.78	$0.61
Losses from discontinued operations (usd per share)	($0.02)	($0.13)
Net earnings per share (usd per share)	$0.76	$0.48
Net earnings per share - diluted:	'	'
Earnings from continuing operations (usd per share)	$0.75	$0.59
Losses from discontinued operations (usd per share)	($0.02)	($0.12)
Net earnings per share (usd per share)	$0.74	$0.47
Weighted-average shares outstanding:	'	'
Basic (in shares)	42,434	42,997
Diluted (in shares)	43,838	44,356

Condensed_Consolidated_Stateme1

Condensed Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income (USD $)	4 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 19, 2014	Jan. 20, 2013
Net earnings	$32,286	$20,689
Net change in fair value of derivatives	-54	4
Net loss reclassified to earnings	426	413
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, before Tax	372	417
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Tax	-142	-160
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax	230	257
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Unamortized Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, before Tax	1,614	5,814
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Tax	-619	-2,229
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax	995	3,585
Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), before Tax	7	3
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Tax	-2	0
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax	5	3
Other comprehensive income	1,230	3,845
Comprehensive income	$33,516	$24,534

Condensed_Consolidated_Stateme2

Condensed Consolidated Statements Of Cash Flows (USD $)	4 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 19, 2014	Jan. 20, 2013
Cash flows from operating activities:	'	'
Net earnings	$32,286	$20,689
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash provided by operating activities:	'	'
Depreciation and amortization	28,454	30,016
Deferred finance cost amortization	675	729
Deferred income taxes	-1,257	-1,370
Share-based compensation expense	3,801	4,062
Pension and postretirement expense	4,233	9,584
Gains on cash surrender value of company-owned life insurance	-3,117	-2,836
Gains on the sale of company-operated restaurants	-461	-748
Losses (gains) on the disposition of property and equipment	992	-832
Impairment charges and other	393	4,458
Loss on early retirement of debt	0	939
Changes in assets and liabilities, excluding acquisitions and dispositions:	'	'
Accounts and other receivables	1,582	38,766
Inventories	-682	26,361
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	-8,274	11,980
Accounts payable	-5,636	-33,966
Accrued liabilities	-16,781	-9,141
Pension and postretirement contributions	-6,558	-5,525
Other	-5,998	-3,201
Cash flows provided by operating activities	23,652	89,965
Cash flows from investing activities:	'	'
Purchases of property and equipment	-21,310	-21,394
Purchases of assets intended for sale and leaseback	0	-13,357
Proceeds from sale and leaseback of assets	2,105	13,513
Proceeds from the sale of company-operated restaurants	468	833
Collections on notes receivable	894	1,848
Acquisitions of franchise-operated restaurants	-1,750	-7,800
Other	36	2,042
Cash flows used in investing activities	-19,557	-24,315
Cash flows from financing activities:	'	'
Borrowings on revolving credit facilities	163,000	385,148
Repayments of borrowings on revolving credit facilities	-103,000	-445,148
Proceeds from issuance of debt	0	200,000
Principal repayments on debt	-10,330	-165,305
Debt issuance costs	0	-4,386
Proceeds from issuance of common stock	17,650	10,733
Repurchases of common stock	84,318	26,888
Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation arrangements	5,307	675
Change in book overdraft	7,880	-19,406
Cash flows used in financing activities	-3,811	-64,577
Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents	5	0
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents	289	1,073
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	9,644	8,469
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$9,933	$9,542

Basis_Of_Presentation

Basis Of Presentation	4 Months Ended
	Jan. 19, 2014
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
Basis Of Presentation	'
		BASIS OF PRESENTATION
	Nature of operations — Founded in 1951, Jack in the Box Inc. (the “Company”) operates and franchises Jack in the Box® quick-service restaurants and Qdoba Mexican Grill® (“Qdoba”) fast-casual restaurants. The following table summarizes the number of restaurants as of the end of each period:
		January 19,	January 20,
		2014	2013
	Jack in the Box:
	Company-operated	469	551
	Franchise	1,785	1,704
	Total system	2,254	2,255
	Qdoba:
	Company-operated	301	325
	Franchise	319	311
	Total system	620	636
	References to the Company throughout these Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements are made using the first person notations of “we,” “us” and “our.”
	Basis of presentation — The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles and the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). During fiscal 2012, we entered into an agreement to outsource our Jack in the Box distribution business. In the third quarter of fiscal 2013, we closed 62 Qdoba restaurants (the “2013 Qdoba Closures”) as part of a comprehensive Qdoba market performance review. The results of operations for our distribution business and for the 62 closed Qdoba restaurants are reported as discontinued operations for all periods presented. Refer to Note 2, Discontinued Operations, for additional information. Unless otherwise noted, amounts and disclosures throughout these Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements relate to our continuing operations. In our opinion, all adjustments considered necessary for a fair presentation of financial condition and results of operations for these interim periods have been included. Operating results for one interim period are not necessarily indicative of the results for any other interim period or for the full year.
	These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and related notes contained in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 29, 2013. The accounting policies used in preparing these condensed consolidated financial statements are the same as those described in our Form 10-K.
	Principles of consolidation — The condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company, its wholly-owned subsidiaries and the accounts of any variable interest entities (“VIEs”) where we are deemed the primary beneficiary. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions are eliminated. For information related to the VIE included in our condensed consolidated financial statements, refer to Note 12, Variable Interest Entities.
	Fiscal year — Our fiscal year is 52 or 53 weeks ending the Sunday closest to September 30. Fiscal years 2014 and 2013 include 52 weeks. Our first quarter includes 16 weeks and all other quarters include 12 weeks. All comparisons between 2014 and 2013 refer to the 16-weeks (“quarter”) ended January 19, 2014 and January 20, 2013, respectively, unless otherwise indicated.
	Use of estimates — In preparing the condensed consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, management is required to make certain assumptions and estimates that affect reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues, expenses and the disclosure of contingencies. In making these assumptions and estimates, management may from time to time seek advice and consider information provided by actuaries and other experts in a particular area. Actual amounts could differ materially from these estimates.

Discontinued_Operations

Discontinued Operations	4 Months Ended
	Jan. 19, 2014
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]	'
Discontinued Operations	'
		DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
	Distribution business — During fiscal 2012, we entered into an agreement with a third party distribution service provider pursuant to a plan approved by our board of directors to sell our Jack in the Box distribution business. During the first quarter of fiscal 2013, we completed the transition of our distribution centers. The operations and cash flows of the business have been eliminated and in accordance with the provisions of the Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 205, Presentation of Financial Statements, the results are reported as discontinued operations for all periods presented.
	The following is a summary of our distribution business operating results, which are included in discontinued operations for each period (in thousands):
		January 19,			January 20,
		2014			2013
	Revenue	$	—		$	37,743
	Operating loss before income tax benefit	$	(572	)	$	(5,262	)
	The loss on the sale of the distribution business was not material to our results of operations in 2013. The operating loss in 2014 includes $0.4 million related to insurance settlements and $0.1 million for future lease commitments. Our liability for lease commitments related to our distribution centers is included in accrued liabilities and other long-term liabilities and has changed as follows during 2014 (in thousands):
	Balance at beginning of period	$	1,318
	Adjustments	79
	Cash payments	(270		)
	Balance at end of period	$	1,127
	Qdoba restaurant closures — During the third quarter of fiscal 2013, we closed 62 Qdoba restaurants. The decision to close these restaurants was based on a comprehensive analysis that took into consideration levels of return on investment and other key operating performance metrics.
	Since the closed locations were not located near those remaining in operation, we do not expect the majority of cash flows and sales lost from these closures to be recovered. In addition, there will not be any ongoing involvement or significant direct cash flows from the closed stores. Therefore, in accordance with the provisions of ASC 205, Presentation of Financial Statements, the results of operations for these restaurants are reported as discontinued operations for all periods presented.
	The following is a summary of the results of operations related to the 2013 Qdoba Closures for each period (in thousands):
		January 19,			January 20,
		2014			2013
	Company restaurant sales	$	—		$	11,188
	Operating loss before income tax benefit	$	(588	)	$	(3,510	)
	In 2014, the operating loss includes $0.3 million for asset impairments, $0.3 million of ongoing facility related costs and $0.2 million of broker commissions, partially offset by favorable lease commitment adjustments of $0.3 million. We do not expect the remaining costs to be incurred related to this transaction to be material. Our liability for lease commitments related to the 2013 Qdoba closures is included in accrued liabilities and other long-term liabilities and has changed as follows during 2014 (in thousands):
	Balance at beginning of period	$	10,712
	Adjustments	(286		)
	Cash payments	(3,395		)
	Balance at end of period	$	7,031

Summary_Of_Refranchisings_Fran

Summary Of Refranchisings, Franchisee Development And Acquisitions	4 Months Ended
	Jan. 19, 2014
Summary Of Refranchisings, Franchisee Development And Acquisitions [Abstract]	'
Summary Of Refranchisings, Franchisee Development And Acquisitions	'
	SUMMARY OF REFRANCHISINGS, FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT AND ACQUISITIONS
	Refranchisings and franchise development — The following is a summary of the number of restaurants developed by franchisees and the related fees recognized, and additional proceeds recognized upon the extension of underlying franchise and lease agreements related to restaurants sold in a prior year (dollars in thousands):
		Sixteen Weeks Ended
		January 19,			January 20,
		2014			2013
	New restaurants opened by franchisees	13			20
	Initial franchise fees	$	399		$	646
	Net proceeds	$	468		$	833
	Net assets sold (primarily property and equipment)	—			(85		)
	Goodwill related to the sale of company-operated restaurants	(9		)	—
	Other	2			—
	Gains on the sale of company-operated restaurants	$	461		$	748
	Franchise acquisitions — During 2014, we repurchased four Jack in the Box franchise restaurants. In 2013, we acquired six Qdoba franchise restaurants and one Jack in the Box franchise restaurant. We account for the acquisition of franchised restaurants using the acquisition method of accounting for business combinations. The purchase price allocations were based on fair value estimates determined using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3). The goodwill recorded primarily relates to the sales growth potential of the locations acquired and is expected to be deductible for tax purposes. The following table provides detail of the combined acquisitions in each period (dollars in thousands):
		Sixteen Weeks Ended
		19-Jan-14			20-Jan-13
	Restaurants acquired from franchisees	4			7
	Property and equipment	$	1,398		$	1,138
	Reacquired franchise rights	96			96
	Liabilities assumed	—			(95		)
	Goodwill	256			6,661
	Total consideration	$	1,750		$	7,800

Fair_Value_Measurements

Fair Value Measurements	4 Months Ended
	Jan. 19, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Fair Value Measurements	'
	FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
	Financial assets and liabilities — The following table presents the financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis (in thousands):
		Total			Quoted Prices			Significant			Significant
					in Active			Other			Unobservable
					Markets for			Observable			Inputs
					Identical			Inputs (3)			(Level 3)
					Assets (3)			(Level 2)
					(Level 1)
	Fair value measurements as of January 19, 2014:
	Non-qualified deferred compensation plan (1)	$	(38,407	)	$	(38,407	)	$	—		$	—
	Interest rate swaps (Note 5) (2)	(818		)	—			(818		)	—
	Total liabilities at fair value	$	(39,225	)	$	(38,407	)	$	(818	)	$	—
	Fair value measurements as of September 29, 2013:
	Non-qualified deferred compensation plan (1)	$	(39,135	)	$	(39,135	)	$	—		$	—
	Interest rate swaps (Note 5) (2)	(1,190		)	—			(1,190		)	—
	Total liabilities at fair value	$	(40,325	)	$	(39,135	)	$	(1,190	)	$	—
	____________________________
	-1	We maintain an unfunded defined contribution plan for key executives and other members of management excluded from participation in our qualified savings plan. The fair value of this obligation is based on the closing market prices of the participants’ elected investments.
	-2	We entered into interest rate swaps to reduce our exposure to rising interest rates on our variable debt. The fair values of our interest rate swaps are based upon Level 2 inputs which include valuation models as reported by our counterparties. The key inputs for the valuation models are quoted market prices, interest rates and forward yield curves.
	-3	We did not have any transfers in or out of Level 1 or Level 2.
	The fair values of the Company’s debt instruments are based on the amount of future cash flows associated with each instrument discounted using the Company’s borrowing rate. At January 19, 2014, the carrying value of all financial instruments was not materially different from fair value, as the borrowings are prepayable without penalty. The estimated fair values of our capital lease obligations approximated their carrying values as of January 19, 2014.
	Non-financial assets and liabilities — The Company’s non-financial instruments, which primarily consist of property and equipment, goodwill and intangible assets, are reported at carrying value and are not required to be measured at fair value on a recurring basis. However, on a periodic basis (at least annually for goodwill and intangible assets, and semi-annually for property and equipment) or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that their carrying value may not be recoverable, non-financial instruments are assessed for impairment. If applicable, the carrying values are written down to fair value.
	In connection with our impairment reviews performed during the quarter ended January 19, 2014, no material fair value adjustments were required. Refer to Note 6, Impairment, Disposition of Property and Equipment, Restaurant Closing Costs and Restructuring, for additional information regarding impairment charges.

Derivative_Instruments

Derivative Instruments	4 Months Ended
	Jan. 19, 2014
Derivative Instruments and Hedges, Assets [Abstract]	'
Derivative Instruments	'
		DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS
	Objectives and strategies — We are exposed to interest rate volatility with regard to our variable rate debt. To reduce our exposure to rising interest rates, in August 2010, we entered into two interest rate swap agreements that effectively convert $100.0 million of our variable rate term loan borrowings to a fixed-rate basis from September 2011 through September 2014. These agreements have been designated as cash flow hedges.
	Financial position — The following derivative instruments were outstanding as of the end of each period (in thousands):
		January 19, 2014				September 29, 2013
		Balance	Fair			Balance		Fair
		Sheet	Value			Sheet		Value
		Location				Location
	Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:
	Interest rate swaps (Note 4)	Accrued	$	(818	)	Accrued		$	(1,190	)
		liabilities				liabilities
	Total derivatives		$	(818	)			$	(1,190	)
	Financial performance — The following is a summary of the accumulated other comprehensive income (“OCI”) activity related to our interest rate swap derivative instruments (in thousands):
		Location of Loss in Income	Sixteen Weeks Ended
			January 19,			January 20,
			2014			2013
	Gains (losses) recognized in OCI	N/A	$	(54	)	$	4
	Losses reclassified from accumulated OCI into income	Interest	$	(426	)	$	(413	)
		expense,
		net
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated OCI into interest expense represent payments made to the counterparty for the effective portions of the interest rate swaps. During the periods presented, our interest rate swaps had no hedge ineffectiveness.

Impairment_Disposition_Of_Prop

Impairment, Disposition Of Property And Equipment, Restaurant Closing Costs And Restructuring	4 Months Ended
	Jan. 19, 2014
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]	'
Impairment Disposition Of Property And Equipment, Restaurant Closing Costs And Resturcturing	'
		IMPAIRMENT, DISPOSITION OF PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, RESTAURANT CLOSING COSTS AND RESTRUCTURING
	Impairment and other charges, net in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of earnings is comprised of the following (in thousands):
		Sixteen Weeks Ended
		January 19,			January 20,
		2014			2013
	Impairment charges	$	95		$	2,522
	Losses (gains) on the disposition of property and equipment, net	952			(832		)
	Costs of closed restaurants (primarily lease obligations) and other	564			751
	Restructuring costs	298			812
		$	1,909		$	3,253
	Impairment — When events and circumstances indicate that our long-lived assets might be impaired and their carrying amount is greater than the undiscounted cash flows we expect to generate from such assets, we recognize an impairment loss as the amount by which the carrying value exceeds the fair value of the assets. Impairment charges in both periods include charges for restaurants we have closed, and additionally in 2013, charges for underperforming Jack in the Box restaurants.
	Disposition of property and equipment — We also recognize accelerated depreciation and other costs on the disposition of property and equipment. When we decide to dispose of a long-lived asset, depreciable lives are adjusted based on the estimated disposal date and accelerated depreciation is recorded. Other disposal costs primarily relate to gains or losses recognized upon the sale of closed restaurant properties, and charges from our ongoing restaurant upgrade programs, remodels and rebuilds, and other corporate initiatives. In 2013, losses on the disposition of property and equipment include income of $2.1 million from the resolution of two eminent domain matters involving Jack in the Box restaurants.
	Restaurant closing costs consist of future lease commitments, net of anticipated sublease rentals and expected ancillary costs, and are included in impairment and other charges, net in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of earnings. Accrued restaurant closing costs, included in accrued liabilities and other long-term liabilities, changed as follows (in thousands):
		Sixteen Weeks Ended
		January 19,			January 20,
		2014			2013
	Balance at beginning of period	$	16,321		$	20,677
	Adjustments	612			426
	Cash payments	(1,434		)	(1,542		)
	Balance at end of quarter	$	15,499		$	19,561
	In 2014 and 2013, adjustments primarily relate to revisions to certain sublease and cost assumptions due to changes in market conditions.
	Restructuring costs — Since the beginning of 2012, we have been engaged in a comprehensive review of our organization structure, including evaluating opportunities for outsourcing, restructuring of certain functions and workforce reductions. The following is a summary of the costs incurred in connection with these activities (in thousands):
		Sixteen Weeks Ended
		January 19,			January 20,
		2014			2013
	Severance costs	$	298		$	368
	Other	—			444
		$	298		$	812
	Total accrued severance costs related to our restructuring activities are included in accrued liabilities and changed as follows (in thousands):
		Sixteen Weeks Ended
		January 19,			January 20,
		2014			2013
	Balance at beginning of period	$	253		$	1,758
	Additions	298			368
	Cash payments	(453		)	(1,455		)
	Balance at end of quarter	$	98		$	671
	As part of the ongoing review of our organization structure, we expect to incur additional charges related to our restructuring activities; however, we are unable to make a reasonable estimate at this time. Our continuing efforts to lower our cost structure include identifying opportunities to reduce general and administrative costs as well as improve restaurant profitability across both brands.

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	4 Months Ended
	Jan. 19, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Income Taxes	'
		INCOME TAXES
	The income tax provisions reflect year-to-date effective tax rates of 37.3% in 2014, and 30.9% in 2013. The final annual tax rate cannot be determined until the end of the fiscal year; therefore, the actual 2014 rate could differ from our current estimates.
	At January 19, 2014, our gross unrecognized tax benefits associated with uncertain income tax positions were $0.8 million, which if recognized would favorably impact the effective income tax rate. There was no change in our gross unrecognized tax benefits from the end of fiscal year 2013. It is reasonably possible that changes to the gross unrecognized tax benefits will be required within the next twelve months due to the possible settlement of state tax audits.
	The major jurisdictions in which the Company files income tax returns include the United States and states in which we operate that impose an income tax. The federal statutes of limitations have not expired for fiscal years 2010 and forward. The Company has refund claims related to fiscal years 2008 and 2009 that allow the statute to remain open for the specific claim. The statutes of limitations for California and Texas, which constitute the Company’s major state tax jurisdictions, have not expired for fiscal years 2001 and 2007, respectively, and forward. Generally, the statutes of limitations for the other state jurisdictions have not expired for fiscal years 2009 and forward.

Retirement_Plans

Retirement Plans	4 Months Ended
	Jan. 19, 2014
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Expense [Abstract]	'
Retirement Plans	'
		RETIREMENT PLANS
	Defined benefit pension plans — We sponsor two defined benefit pension plans: a qualified plan covering substantially all full-time employees hired prior to January 1, 2011, and an unfunded supplemental executive plan which provides certain employees additional pension benefits and was closed to new participants effective January 1, 2007. In fiscal 2011, the Board of Directors approved changes to our qualified plan whereby participants will no longer accrue benefits under this plan effective December 31, 2015. Benefits under both plans are based on the employees’ years of service and compensation over defined periods of employment.
	Postretirement healthcare plans — We also sponsor two healthcare plans, closed to new participants, that provide postretirement medical benefits to certain employees who have met minimum age and service requirements. The plans are contributory, with retiree contributions adjusted annually, and contain other cost-sharing features such as deductibles and coinsurance.
	Net periodic benefit cost — The components of net periodic benefit cost in each period were as follows (in thousands):
		Sixteen Weeks Ended
		January 19,			January 20,
		2014			2013
	Defined benefit pension plans:
	Service cost	$	2,499		$	3,308
	Interest cost	7,152			6,963
	Expected return on plan assets	(7,536		)	(6,989		)
	Actuarial loss	1,364			5,488
	Amortization of unrecognized prior service cost	83			83
	Net periodic benefit cost	$	3,562		$	8,853
	Postretirement healthcare plans:
	Interest cost	$	504		$	488
	Actuarial loss	167			243
	Net periodic benefit cost	$	671		$	731
	Future cash flows — Our policy is to fund our plans at or above the minimum required by law. As of the date of our last actuarial funding valuation, there was no minimum contribution funding requirement. Details regarding fiscal 2014 contributions are as follows (in thousands):
		Defined Benefit			Postretirement
		Pension Plans			Healthcare Plans
	Net year-to-date contributions	$	6,269		$	289
	Remaining estimated net contributions during fiscal 2014	$	18,100		$	1,100
	We will continue to evaluate contributions to our qualified defined benefit pension plan based on changes in pension assets as a result of asset performance in the current market and economic environment.

ShareBased_Compensation

Share-Based Compensation	4 Months Ended
	Jan. 19, 2014
Share-based Compensation [Abstract]	'
Share-Based Compensation	'
	SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION
	We offer share-based compensation plans to attract, retain and motivate key officers, employees and non-employee directors to work toward the financial success of the Company. In 2014, we granted the following shares related to our share-based compensation awards:
	Stock options	215,248
	Performance share awards	55,668
	Nonvested stock units	102,232
	The components of share-based compensation expense recognized in each period are as follows (in thousands):
		Sixteen Weeks Ended
		January 19,		January 20,
		2014		2013
	Stock options	$	1,289	$	1,890
	Performance share awards	1,497		1,117
	Nonvested stock awards	173		134
	Nonvested stock units	842		921
	Total share-based compensation expense	$	3,801	$	4,062

Stockholders_Equity

Stockholders' Equity	4 Months Ended
	Jan. 19, 2014
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]	'
Stockholders' Equity	'
	STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
	Repurchases of common stock — In November 2012 and August 2013, the Board of Directors approved two programs, each of which provide repurchase authorizations for up to $100.0 million in shares of our common stock, expiring November 2014 and November 2015, respectively. During 2014, we repurchased 1.6 million shares at an aggregate cost of $77.0 million and fully utilized the November 2012 authorization. As of January 19, 2014, there was $59.7 million remaining under the August 2013 authorization. Repurchases of common stock included in our condensed consolidated statement of cash flows for the quarter ended January 19, 2014, includes $7.3 million related to repurchase transactions traded in fiscal 2013 and settled in 2014.

Average_Shares_Outstanding

Average Shares Outstanding	4 Months Ended
	Jan. 19, 2014
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract]	'
Average Shares Outstanding	'
	AVERAGE SHARES OUTSTANDING
	Our basic earnings per share calculation is computed based on the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding. Our diluted earnings per share calculation is computed based on the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding adjusted by the number of additional shares that would have been outstanding had the potentially dilutive common shares been issued. Potentially dilutive common shares include stock options, nonvested stock awards and units, non-management director stock equivalents and shares issuable under our employee stock purchase plan. Performance share awards are included in the weighted-average diluted shares outstanding each period if the performance criteria have been met at the end of the respective periods.
	The following table reconciles basic weighted-average shares outstanding to diluted weighted-average shares outstanding (in thousands):
		Sixteen Weeks Ended
		January 19,	January 20,
		2014	2013
	Weighted-average shares outstanding – basic	42,434	42,997
	Effect of potentially dilutive securities:
	Stock options	765	821
	Nonvested stock awards and units	372	297
	Performance share awards	267	241
	Weighted-average shares outstanding – diluted	43,838	44,356
	Excluded from diluted weighted-average shares outstanding:
	Antidilutive	151	1,097
	Performance conditions not satisfied at the end of the period	52	202

Variable_Interest_Entities

Variable Interest Entities	4 Months Ended
	Jan. 19, 2014
Variable Interest Entities ("VIEs") [Abstract]	'
Variable Interest Entities	'
		VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES
	In January 2011, we formed Jack in the Box Franchise Finance, LLC (“FFE”) for the purpose of operating a franchisee lending program to assist Jack in the Box franchisees in re-imaging their restaurants. We are the sole equity investor in FFE. The lending program was comprised of a $20.0 million commitment from the Company in the form of a capital note and an $80.0 million Senior Secured Revolving Securitization Facility entered into with a third party. The lending period and the revolving period expired in June 2012. At January 19, 2014, we had no borrowings under the FFE Facility and we do not plan to make any further contributions.
	We have determined that FFE is a VIE, and that the Company is the primary beneficiary. We considered a variety of factors in identifying the primary beneficiary of FFE including, but not limited to, who holds the power to direct matters that most significantly impact FFE’s economic performance (such as determining the underwriting standards and credit management policies), as well as what party has the obligation to absorb the losses of FFE. Based on these considerations, we have determined that the Company is the primary beneficiary and the entity is reflected in the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements.
	FFE’s assets consolidated by the Company represent assets that can be used only to settle obligations of the consolidated VIE. Likewise, FFE’s liabilities consolidated by the Company do not represent additional claims on the Company’s general assets; rather they represent claims against the specific assets of FFE. The impacts of FFE’s results were not material to the Company’s condensed consolidated statements of earnings or cash flows.
	The FFE’s balance sheet consisted of the following at the end of each period (in thousands):
		January 19,			September 29,
		2014			2013
	Cash	$	—		$	250
	Other current assets (1)	2,432			2,368
	Other assets, net (1)	7,674			8,367
	Total assets	$	10,106		$	10,985
	Current liabilities	$	3,034		$	3,010
	Other long-term liabilities (2)	7,129			8,076
	Retained earnings	(57		)	(101		)
	Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	10,106		$	10,985
	____________________________
	-1	Consists primarily of amounts due from franchisees.
	-2	Consists primarily of the capital note contributions from Jack in the Box which are eliminated in consolidation.
	The Company’s maximum exposure to loss is equal to its outstanding contributions as of January 19, 2014. This amount represents estimated losses that would be incurred should all franchisees default on their loans without any consideration of recovery. To offset the credit risk associated with the Company’s variable interest in FFE, the Company holds a security interest in the assets of FFE subordinate and junior to all other obligations of FFE.
	The FFE’s balance sheet consisted of the following at the end of each period (in thousands):
		January 19,			September 29,
		2014			2013
	Cash	$	—		$	250
	Other current assets (1)	2,432			2,368
	Other assets, net (1)	7,674			8,367
	Total assets	$	10,106		$	10,985
	Current liabilities	$	3,034		$	3,010
	Other long-term liabilities (2)	7,129			8,076
	Retained earnings	(57		)	(101		)
	Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	10,106		$	10,985
	____________________________
	-1	Consists primarily of amounts due from franchisees.
	-2	Consists primarily of the capital note contributions from Jack in the Box which are eliminated in consolidation.

Contingencies_and_Legal_Matter

Contingencies and Legal Matters	4 Months Ended
	Jan. 19, 2014
Legal Matters [Abstract]	'
Contingencies and Legal Matters	'
	CONTINGENCIES AND LEGAL MATTERS
	Legal Matters — The Company assesses contingencies, including litigation contingencies, to determine the degree of probability and range of possible loss for potential accrual in its financial statements. An estimated loss contingency is accrued in the financial statements if it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. Because litigation is inherently unpredictable, assessing contingencies is highly subjective and requires judgments about future events. When evaluating litigation contingencies, we may be unable to provide a meaningful estimate due to a number of factors, including the procedural status of the matter in question, the availability of appellate remedies, insurance coverage related to the claim or claims in question, the presence of complex or novel legal theories, and/or the ongoing discovery and development of information important to the matter.  In addition, damage amounts claimed in litigation against us may be unsupported, exaggerated or unrelated to possible outcomes, and as such are not meaningful indicators of our potential liability. The Company regularly reviews contingencies to determine the adequacy of the accruals and related disclosures. The ultimate amount of loss may differ from these estimates.
	Gessele v. Jack in the Box Inc. —  In August 2010, five former employees instituted litigation in federal court in Oregon alleging claims under the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (“FLSA”) and Oregon wage and hour laws.  The plaintiffs allege that the Company failed to pay non-exempt employees for certain meal breaks and improperly made payroll deductions for shoe purchases and for workers’ compensation expenses.  In April 2013, the district court: (i) granted certification of the Oregon state law claims with respect to payroll deductions for shoe purchases and workers’ compensation expenses, (ii) granted conditional certification for these same claims under the FLSA, and (iii) denied certification for meal break claims under both federal and Oregon law.  We intend to vigorously defend against this lawsuit.  We have made an accrual for a single claim for which we believe a loss is both probable and estimable.  This accrued loss contingency did not have a material effect on our results of operations. Due to the procedural status of the other claims in this case, we have not established a loss contingency accrual for these claims as the liability with respect to these claims is not probable and we are currently unable to estimate a range of loss. Nonetheless, an unfavorable resolution of this matter could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, liquidity or financial condition.
	Other Legal Matters — In addition to the matter described above, the Company is subject to normal and routine litigation brought by former, current or prospective employees, customers, franchisees, vendors, landlords, shareholders or others.  We intend to defend ourselves in any such matters.  Although the Company currently believes that the ultimate determination of liability in connection with legal claims pending against it, if any, in excess of amounts already provided for these matters in the consolidated financial statements will not have a material adverse effect on our business, the Company’s annual results of operations, liquidity or financial position, it is possible that our results of operations, liquidity, or financial position could be materially affected in a particular future reporting period by the unfavorable resolution of one or more of these matters or contingencies during such period. In addition, some of these matters may be covered, at least in part, by insurance. Our insurance liability (undiscounted) and reserves are established in part by using independent actuarial estimates of expected losses for reported claims and for estimating claims incurred but not reported. In addition, some of these matters may be covered, at least in part, by insurance. As of January 19, 2014, our estimated liability for general liability and workers’ compensation claims exceeded our self-insurance retention limits by $22.9 million, which we expect our insurance providers to pay on our behalf in accordance with the contractual terms of our insurance policies.
	Lease Guarantees — In connection with the sale of the distribution business, we have assigned the leases at two of our distribution centers to third parties. Under these agreements, which expire in 2015 and 2017, the Company remains secondarily liable for the lease payments for which we were responsible under the original lease. As of January 19, 2014, the amount remaining under these lease guarantees totaled $2.2 million. We have not recorded a liability for the guarantees as the likelihood of the third party defaulting on the assignment agreements was deemed to be less than probable.

Segment_Reporting

Segment Reporting	4 Months Ended
	Jan. 19, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'
Segment Reporting	'
	SEGMENT REPORTING
	Our principal business consists of developing, operating and franchising our Jack in the Box and Qdoba restaurant concepts, each of which we consider reportable operating segments. Since the beginning of 2012, we have been engaged in restructuring activities related to our internal organization and have now instituted a shared-services model (refer also to Note 6, Impairment, Disposition of Property and Equipment, Restaurant Closing Costs and Restructuring). As a result, in fiscal 2014, our chief operating decision makers, which consist of a collective group of executive leadership, revised the method by which they determine performance and strategy for our segments. This change was made to reflect a shared-services model whereby each brand’s results of operations are assessed separately and do not include costs related to certain corporate functions which support both brands. This segment reporting structure reflects the Company’s current management structure, internal reporting method and financial information used in deciding how to allocate Company resources. Based upon certain quantitative thresholds, each operating segment is considered a reportable segment. This change to our segment reporting did not change our reporting units for goodwill.
	We measure and evaluate our segments based on segment revenues and earnings from operations. The reportable segments do not include an allocation of the costs related to shared service functions, such as accounting/finance, human resources, audit services, legal, tax and treasury; nor do they include unallocated costs such as pension expense and share-based compensation. These costs are reflected in the caption “Shared services and unallocated costs,” and therefore, the measure of segment profit or loss is before such items. As it was impractical to recast prior period information, 2014 segment information is reported under both the old basis and new basis of segmentation (in thousands):
		Sixteen Weeks Ended
		January 19,			January 19,			January 20,
		2014			2014			2013
		(New)			(Old)
	Revenues by segment:
	Jack in the Box restaurant operations segment	$	349,824		$	349,824		$	367,576
	Qdoba restaurant operations segment	100,257			100,257			86,759
	Consolidated revenues	$	450,081		$	450,081		$	454,335
	Earnings from operations by segment:
	Jack in the Box restaurant operations segment	$	76,366		$	48,251		$	37,217
	Qdoba restaurant operations segment	9,606			8,995			6,006
	FFE operations (1)	—			(42		)	(49		)
	Shared services and unallocated costs	(29,229		)	—			—
	Gains on the sale of company-operated restaurants	461			—			—
	Consolidated earnings from operations	$	57,204		$	57,204		$	43,174
	Total depreciation expense by segment:
	Jack in the Box restaurant operations segment	$	20,851		$	22,990		$	23,683
	Qdoba restaurant operations segment	5,230			5,230			4,689
	Shared services and unallocated costs	2,139			—			—
	Consolidated depreciation expense	$	28,220		$	28,220		$	28,372
	____________________________
	(1)    FFE operations are included in the Jack in the Box operations segment under the new basis of segmentation.
	Interest income and expense, income taxes and total assets are not reported for our segments, in accordance with our method of internal reporting.
	The following table provides detail of the change in the balance of goodwill for each of our reportable segments (in thousands):
		Qdoba			Jack in the Box			Total
	Balance at September 29, 2013	$	100,597		$	48,391		$	148,988
	Additions	—			256			256
	Disposals	—			(9		)	(9		)
	Balance at January 19, 2014	$	100,597		$	48,638		$	149,235
	Refer to Note 3, Summary of Refranchisings, Franchise Development and Acquisitions, for information regarding the transactions resulting in the changes in goodwill.

Supplemental_Consolidated_Cash

Supplemental Consolidated Cash Flow Information	4 Months Ended
	Jan. 19, 2014
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]	'
Supplemental Consolidated Cash Flow Information	'
	SUPPLEMENTAL CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW INFORMATION (in thousands)
		January 19,		January 20,
		2014		2013
	Cash paid during the year for:
	Interest, net of amounts capitalized	$	5,357	$	5,573
	Income tax payments	$	16,684	$	12,357

Supplemental_Consolidated_Bala

Supplemental Consolidated Balance Sheet Information	4 Months Ended
	Jan. 19, 2014
Balance Sheet Related Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Supplemental Consolidated Balance Sheet Information	'
	SUPPLEMENTAL CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET INFORMATION (in thousands)
		January 19,		September 29,
		2014		2013
	Other assets, net:
	Company-owned life insurance policies	$	97,821	$	94,704
	Deferred tax assets	89,329		88,833
	Other	81,285		82,223
		$	268,435	$	265,760
	Accrued liabilities:
	Payroll and related taxes	$	34,625	$	46,970
	Sales and property taxes	13,822		11,386
	Advertising	14,295		17,706
	Insurance	35,017		35,209
	Lease commitments related to closed or refranchised locations	9,844		12,737
	Other	25,236		29,878
		$	132,839	$	153,886
	Other long-term liabilities:
	Pension plans	$	101,815	$	105,968
	Straight-line rent accrual	50,397		50,726
	Other	125,068		129,430
		$	277,280	$	286,124

Subsequent_Events

Subsequent Events	4 Months Ended
	Jan. 19, 2014
Subsequent Event [Line Items]	'
Subsequent Events	'
	SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
	In February 2014, the Board of Directors authorized an additional $200.0 million stock-buyback program that expires in November 2015.

Basis_Of_Presentation_Policy

Basis Of Presentation (Policy)	4 Months Ended
	Jan. 19, 2014
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
Basis of presentation	'
	Basis of presentation — The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles and the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). During fiscal 2012, we entered into an agreement to outsource our Jack in the Box distribution business. In the third quarter of fiscal 2013, we closed 62 Qdoba restaurants (the “2013 Qdoba Closures”) as part of a comprehensive Qdoba market performance review. The results of operations for our distribution business and for the 62 closed Qdoba restaurants are reported as discontinued operations for all periods presented. Refer to Note 2, Discontinued Operations, for additional information. Unless otherwise noted, amounts and disclosures throughout these Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements relate to our continuing operations. In our opinion, all adjustments considered necessary for a fair presentation of financial condition and results of operations for these interim periods have been included. Operating results for one interim period are not necessarily indicative of the results for any other interim period or for the full year.
	These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and related notes contained in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 29, 2013. The accounting policies used in preparing these condensed consolidated financial statements are the same as those described in our Form 10-K.
	Principles of consolida
Principles of consolidation	'
	Principles of consolidation — The condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company, its wholly-owned subsidiaries and the accounts of any variable interest entities (“VIEs”) where we are deemed the primary beneficiary. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions are eliminated. For information related to the VIE included in our condensed consolidated financial statements, refer to Note 12, Variable Interest Entities.
Fiscal year	'
	Fiscal year — Our fiscal year is 52 or 53 weeks ending the Sunday closest to September 30. Fiscal years 2014 and 2013 include 52 weeks. Our first quarter includes 16 weeks and all other quarters include 12 weeks. All comparisons between 2014 and 2013 refer to the 16-weeks (“quarter”) ended January 19, 2014 and January 20, 2013, respectively, unless otherwise indicated.
Use of estimates	'
	Use of estimates — In preparing the condensed consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, management is required to make certain assumptions and estimates that affect reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues, expenses and the disclosure of contingencies. In making these assumptions and estimates, management may from time to time seek advice and consider information provided by actuaries and other experts in a particular area. Actual amounts could differ materially from these estimates.

Basis_Of_Presentation_Tables

Basis Of Presentation (Tables)	4 Months Ended
	Jan. 19, 2014
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
Summary Of Number Of Restaurants	'
	The following table summarizes the number of restaurants as of the end of each period:
		January 19,			January 20,
		2014			2013
	Jack in the Box:
	Company-operated	469			551
	Franchise	1,785			1,704
	Total system	2,254			2,255
	Qdoba:
	Company-operated	301			325
	Franchise	319			311
	Total system	620			636
	The following is a summary of the number of restaurants developed by franchisees and the related fees recognized, and additional proceeds recognized upon the extension of underlying franchise and lease agreements related to restaurants sold in a prior year (dollars in thousands):
		Sixteen Weeks Ended
		January 19,				January 20,
		2014				2013
	New restaurants opened by franchisees	13				20
	Initial franchise fees	$	399			$	646
	Net proceeds	$	468			$	833
	Net assets sold (primarily property and equipment)	—				(85		)
	Goodwill related to the sale of company-operated restaurants	(9		)		—
	Other	2				—
	Gains on the sale of company-operated restaurants	$	461			$	748

Discontinued_Operations_Tables

Discontinued Operations (Tables)	4 Months Ended
	Jan. 19, 2014
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'
Schedule of Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures [Table Text Block]	'
	The following is a summary of our distribution business operating results, which are included in discontinued operations for each period (in thousands):
		January 19,			January 20,
		2014			2013
	Revenue	$	—		$	37,743
	Operating loss before income tax benefit	$	(572	)	$	(5,262	)
	The loss on the sale of the distribution business was not material to our results of operations in 2013. The operating loss in 2014 includes $0.4 million related to insurance settlements and $0.1 million for future lease commitments. Our liability for lease commitments related to our distribution centers is included in accrued liabilities and other long-term liabilities and has changed as follows during 2014 (in thousands):
	Balance at beginning of period	$	1,318
	Adjustments	79
	Cash payments	(270		)
	Balance at end of period	$	1,127
	Qdoba restaurant closures — During the third quarter of fiscal 2013, we closed 62 Qdoba restaurants. The decision to close these restaurants was based on a comprehensive analysis that took into consideration levels of return on investment and other key operating performance metrics.
	Since the closed locations were not located near those remaining in operation, we do not expect the majority of cash flows and sales lost from these closures to be recovered. In addition, there will not be any ongoing involvement or significant direct cash flows from the closed stores. Therefore, in accordance with the provisions of ASC 205, Presentation of Financial Statements, the results of operations for these restaurants are reported as discontinued operations for all periods presented.
	The following is a summary of the results of operations related to the 2013 Qdoba Closures for each period (in thousands):
		January 19,			January 20,
		2014			2013
	Company restaurant sales	$	—		$	11,188
	Operating loss before income tax benefit	$	(588	)	$	(3,510	)
	In 2014, the operating loss includes $0.3 million for asset impairments, $0.3 million of ongoing facility related costs and $0.2 million of broker commissions, partially offset by favorable lease commitment adjustments of $0.3 million. We do not expect the remaining costs to be incurred related to this transaction to be material. Our liability for lease commitments related to the 2013 Qdoba closures is included in accrued liabilities and other long-term liabilities and has changed as follows during 2014 (in thousands):
	Balance at beginning of period	$	10,712
	Adjustments	(286		)
	Cash payments	(3,395		)
	Balance at end of period	$	7,031
Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs	'
	Restructuring costs — Since the beginning of 2012, we have been engaged in a comprehensive review of our organization structure, including evaluating opportunities for outsourcing, restructuring of certain functions and workforce reductions. The following is a summary of the costs incurred in connection with these activities (in thousands):
		Sixteen Weeks Ended
		January 19,			January 20,
		2014			2013
	Severance costs	$	298		$	368
	Other	—			444
		$	298		$	812
Contract Termination [Member]	'
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'
Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs	'
	Our liability for lease commitments related to the 2013 Qdoba closures is included in accrued liabilities and other long-term liabilities and has changed as follows during 2014 (in thousands):
	Balance at beginning of period	$	10,712
	Adjustments	(286		)
	Cash payments	(3,395		)
	Balance at end of period	$	7,031

Summary_Of_Refranchisings_Fran1

Summary Of Refranchisings, Franchisee Development And Acquisitions (Tables)	4 Months Ended
	Jan. 19, 2014
Summary Of Refranchisings, Franchisee Development And Acquisitions [Abstract]	'
Number Of Restaurants Sold And Developed By Franchisees And Related Gains And Fees Recognized	'
	The following table summarizes the number of restaurants as of the end of each period:
		January 19,			January 20,
		2014			2013
	Jack in the Box:
	Company-operated	469			551
	Franchise	1,785			1,704
	Total system	2,254			2,255
	Qdoba:
	Company-operated	301			325
	Franchise	319			311
	Total system	620			636
	The following is a summary of the number of restaurants developed by franchisees and the related fees recognized, and additional proceeds recognized upon the extension of underlying franchise and lease agreements related to restaurants sold in a prior year (dollars in thousands):
		Sixteen Weeks Ended
		January 19,				January 20,
		2014				2013
	New restaurants opened by franchisees	13				20
	Initial franchise fees	$	399			$	646
	Net proceeds	$	468			$	833
	Net assets sold (primarily property and equipment)	—				(85		)
	Goodwill related to the sale of company-operated restaurants	(9		)		—
	Other	2				—
	Gains on the sale of company-operated restaurants	$	461			$	748
Purchase Price Allocations On Franchise Acquisitions	'
	The following table provides detail of the combined acquisitions in each period (dollars in thousands):
		Sixteen Weeks Ended
		19-Jan-14				20-Jan-13
	Restaurants acquired from franchisees	4				7
	Property and equipment	$	1,398			$	1,138
	Reacquired franchise rights	96				96
	Liabilities assumed	—				(95		)
	Goodwill	256				6,661
	Total consideration	$	1,750			$	7,800

Fair_Value_Measurements_Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	4 Months Ended
	Jan. 19, 2014
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'
Fair Value Measurements, Nonrecurring [Table Text Block]	'
	Non-financial assets and liabilities — The Company’s non-financial instruments, which primarily consist of property and equipment, goodwill and intangible assets, are reported at carrying value and are not required to be measured at fair value on a recurring basis. However, on a periodic basis (at least annually for goodwill and intangible assets, and semi-annually for property and equipment) or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that their carrying value may not be recoverable, non-financial instruments are assessed for impairment. If applicable, the carrying values are written down to fair value.
	In connection with our impairment reviews performed during the quarter ended January 19, 2014, no material fair value adjustments were required. Refer to Note 6, Impairment, Disposition of Property and Equipment, Restaurant Closing Costs and Restructuring, for additional information regarding impairment charges.
Financial Assets And Liabilities Measured At Fair Value On Recurring Basis	'
	The following table presents the financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis (in thousands):
		Total			Quoted Prices			Significant			Significant
					in Active			Other			Unobservable
					Markets for			Observable			Inputs
					Identical			Inputs (3)			(Level 3)
					Assets (3)			(Level 2)
					(Level 1)
	Fair value measurements as of January 19, 2014:
	Non-qualified deferred compensation plan (1)	$	(38,407	)	$	(38,407	)	$	—		$	—
	Interest rate swaps (Note 5) (2)	(818		)	—			(818		)	—
	Total liabilities at fair value	$	(39,225	)	$	(38,407	)	$	(818	)	$	—
	Fair value measurements as of September 29, 2013:
	Non-qualified deferred compensation plan (1)	$	(39,135	)	$	(39,135	)	$	—		$	—
	Interest rate swaps (Note 5) (2)	(1,190		)	—			(1,190		)	—
	Total liabilities at fair value	$	(40,325	)	$	(39,135	)	$	(1,190	)	$	—
	____________________________
	-1	We maintain an unfunded defined contribution plan for key executives and other members of management excluded from participation in our qualified savings plan. The fair value of this obligation is based on the closing market prices of the participants’ elected investments.
	-2	We entered into interest rate swaps to reduce our exposure to rising interest rates on our variable debt. The fair values of our interest rate swaps are based upon Level 2 inputs which include valuation models as reported by our counterparties. The key inputs for the valuation models are quoted market prices, interest rates and forward yield curves.
	-3	We did not have any transfers in or out of Level 1 or Level 2.
	The fair values of the Company’s debt instruments are based on the amount of future cash flows associated with each instrument discounted using the Company’s borrowing rate. At January 19, 2014, the carrying value of all financial instruments was not materially different from fair value, as the borrowings are prepayable without penalty. The estimated fair values of our capital lease obligations approximated their carrying values as of January 19, 2014

Derivative_Instruments_Tables

Derivative Instruments (Tables)	4 Months Ended
	Jan. 19, 2014
Derivative Instruments and Hedges, Assets [Abstract]	'
Derivative Instruments Outstanding	'
	The following derivative instruments were outstanding as of the end of each period (in thousands):
		January 19, 2014				September 29, 2013
		Balance	Fair			Balance		Fair
		Sheet	Value			Sheet		Value
		Location				Location
	Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:
	Interest rate swaps (Note 4)	Accrued	$	(818	)	Accrued		$	(1,190	)
		liabilities				liabilities
	Total derivatives		$	(818	)			$	(1,190	)
Gains Or Losses Recognized On Interest Rate Swap Derivative Instruments	'
	The following is a summary of the accumulated other comprehensive income (“OCI”) activity related to our interest rate swap derivative instruments (in thousands):
		Location of Loss in Income	Sixteen Weeks Ended
			January 19,			January 20,
			2014			2013
	Gains (losses) recognized in OCI	N/A	$	(54	)	$	4
	Losses reclassified from accumulated OCI into income	Interest	$	(426	)	$	(413	)
		expense,
		net
	Amounts reclassified from accu

Impairment_Disposition_Of_Prop1

Impairment, Disposition Of Property And Equipment, Restaurant Closing Costs And Restructuring (Tables)	4 Months Ended
	Jan. 19, 2014
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'
Schedule of Impairment and Disposal Costs Included in Impairment and Other Charges	'
	Impairment and other charges, net in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of earnings is comprised of the following (in thousands):
		Sixteen Weeks Ended
		January 19,			January 20,
		2014			2013
	Impairment charges	$	95		$	2,522
	Losses (gains) on the disposition of property and equipment, net	952			(832		)
	Costs of closed restaurants (primarily lease obligations) and other	564			751
	Restructuring costs	298			812
		$	1,909		$	3,253
Restaurant Closing Costs	'
	Total accrued severance costs related to our restructuring activities are included in accrued liabilities and changed as follows (in thousands):
		Sixteen Weeks Ended
		January 19,			January 20,
		2014			2013
	Balance at beginning of period	$	253		$	1,758
	Additions	298			368
	Cash payments	(453		)	(1,455		)
	Balance at end of quarter	$	98		$	671
	As part of the ongoing review of our organization structure, we expect to incur additional charges related to our restructuring activities; however, we are unable to make a reasonable estimate at this time. Our continuing efforts to lower our cost structure include identifying opportunities to reduce general and administrative costs as well as improve restaurant profitability across both brands.
Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs	'
	Restructuring costs — Since the beginning of 2012, we have been engaged in a comprehensive review of our organization structure, including evaluating opportunities for outsourcing, restructuring of certain functions and workforce reductions. The following is a summary of the costs incurred in connection with these activities (in thousands):
		Sixteen Weeks Ended
		January 19,			January 20,
		2014			2013
	Severance costs	$	298		$	368
	Other	—			444
		$	298		$	812
Contract Termination [Member]	'
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'
Restaurant Closing Costs	'
	Restaurant closing costs consist of future lease commitments, net of anticipated sublease rentals and expected ancillary costs, and are included in impairment and other charges, net in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of earnings. Accrued restaurant closing costs, included in accrued liabilities and other long-term liabilities, changed as follows (in thousands):
		Sixteen Weeks Ended
		January 19,			January 20,
		2014			2013
	Balance at beginning of period	$	16,321		$	20,677
	Adjustments	612			426
	Cash payments	(1,434		)	(1,542		)
	Balance at end of quarter	$	15,499		$	19,561
	In 2014 and 2013, adjustments primarily relate to revisions to certain sublease and cost assumptions due to changes in market conditions.
Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs	'
	Our liability for lease commitments related to the 2013 Qdoba closures is included in accrued liabilities and other long-term liabilities and has changed as follows during 2014 (in thousands):
	Balance at beginning of period	$	10,712
	Adjustments	(286		)
	Cash payments	(3,395		)
	Balance at end of period	$	7,031

Retirement_Plans_Tables

Retirement Plans (Tables)	4 Months Ended
	Jan. 19, 2014
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Expense [Abstract]	'
Components Of Net Periodic Benefit Cost	'
	The components of net periodic benefit cost in each period were as follows (in thousands):
		Sixteen Weeks Ended
		January 19,			January 20,
		2014			2013
	Defined benefit pension plans:
	Service cost	$	2,499		$	3,308
	Interest cost	7,152			6,963
	Expected return on plan assets	(7,536		)	(6,989		)
	Actuarial loss	1,364			5,488
	Amortization of unrecognized prior service cost	83			83
	Net periodic benefit cost	$	3,562		$	8,853
	Postretirement healthcare plans:
	Interest cost	$	504		$	488
	Actuarial loss	167			243
	Net periodic benefit cost	$	671		$	731
Schedule Of Defined Benefit Plan Contribution	'
	Future cash flows — Our policy is to fund our plans at or above the minimum required by law. As of the date of our last actuarial funding valuation, there was no minimum contribution funding requirement. Details regarding fiscal 2014 contributions are as follows (in thousands):
		Defined Benefit			Postretirement
		Pension Plans			Healthcare Plans
	Net year-to-date contributions	$	6,269		$	289
	Remaining estimated net contributions during fiscal 2014	$	18,100		$	1,100

ShareBased_Compensation_Tables

Share-Based Compensation (Tables)	4 Months Ended
	Jan. 19, 2014
Share-based Compensation [Abstract]	'
Schedule Of Share-Based Awards Granted	'
	In 2014, we granted the following shares related to our share-based compensation awards:
	Stock options	215,248
	Performance share awards	55,668
	Nonvested stock units	102,232
Components Of Share-Based Compensation Expense	'
	The components of share-based compensation expense recognized in each period are as follows (in thousands):
		Sixteen Weeks Ended
		January 19,		January 20,
		2014		2013
	Stock options	$	1,289	$	1,890
	Performance share awards	1,497		1,117
	Nonvested stock awards	173		134
	Nonvested stock units	842		921
	Total share-based compensation expense	$	3,801	$	4,062

Average_Shares_Outstanding_Tab

Average Shares Outstanding (Tables)	4 Months Ended
	Jan. 19, 2014
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract]	'
Reconciliation Of Basic Weighted-Average Shares Outstanding To Diluted Weighted-Average Shares Outstanding	'
	The following table reconciles basic weighted-average shares outstanding to diluted weighted-average shares outstanding (in thousands):
		Sixteen Weeks Ended
		January 19,	January 20,
		2014	2013
	Weighted-average shares outstanding – basic	42,434	42,997
	Effect of potentially dilutive securities:
	Stock options	765	821
	Nonvested stock awards and units	372	297
	Performance share awards	267	241
	Weighted-average shares outstanding – diluted	43,838	44,356
	Excluded from diluted weighted-average shares outstanding:
	Antidilutive	151	1,097
	Performance conditions not satisfied at the end of the period	52	202

Variable_Interest_Entities_Tab

Variable Interest Entities (Tables)	4 Months Ended
	Jan. 19, 2014
Variable Interest Entities ("VIEs") [Abstract]	'
Components Of FFE's Balance Sheet	'
		VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES
	In January 2011, we formed Jack in the Box Franchise Finance, LLC (“FFE”) for the purpose of operating a franchisee lending program to assist Jack in the Box franchisees in re-imaging their restaurants. We are the sole equity investor in FFE. The lending program was comprised of a $20.0 million commitment from the Company in the form of a capital note and an $80.0 million Senior Secured Revolving Securitization Facility entered into with a third party. The lending period and the revolving period expired in June 2012. At January 19, 2014, we had no borrowings under the FFE Facility and we do not plan to make any further contributions.
	We have determined that FFE is a VIE, and that the Company is the primary beneficiary. We considered a variety of factors in identifying the primary beneficiary of FFE including, but not limited to, who holds the power to direct matters that most significantly impact FFE’s economic performance (such as determining the underwriting standards and credit management policies), as well as what party has the obligation to absorb the losses of FFE. Based on these considerations, we have determined that the Company is the primary beneficiary and the entity is reflected in the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements.
	FFE’s assets consolidated by the Company represent assets that can be used only to settle obligations of the consolidated VIE. Likewise, FFE’s liabilities consolidated by the Company do not represent additional claims on the Company’s general assets; rather they represent claims against the specific assets of FFE. The impacts of FFE’s results were not material to the Company’s condensed consolidated statements of earnings or cash flows.
	The FFE’s balance sheet consisted of the following at the end of each period (in thousands):
		January 19,			September 29,
		2014			2013
	Cash	$	—		$	250
	Other current assets (1)	2,432			2,368
	Other assets, net (1)	7,674			8,367
	Total assets	$	10,106		$	10,985
	Current liabilities	$	3,034		$	3,010
	Other long-term liabilities (2)	7,129			8,076
	Retained earnings	(57		)	(101		)
	Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	10,106		$	10,985
	____________________________
	-1	Consists primarily of amounts due from franchisees.
	-2	Consists primarily of the capital note contributions from Jack in the Box which are eliminated in consolidation.
	The Company’s maximum exposure to loss is equal to its outstanding contributions as of January 19, 2014. This amount represents estimated losses that would be incurred should all franchisees default on their loans without any consideration of recovery. To offset the credit risk associated with the Company’s variable interest in FFE, the Company holds a security interest in the assets of FFE subordinate and junior to all other obligations of FFE.
	The FFE’s balance sheet consisted of the following at the end of each period (in thousands):
		January 19,			September 29,
		2014			2013
	Cash	$	—		$	250
	Other current assets (1)	2,432			2,368
	Other assets, net (1)	7,674			8,367
	Total assets	$	10,106		$	10,985
	Current liabilities	$	3,034		$	3,010
	Other long-term liabilities (2)	7,129			8,076
	Retained earnings	(57		)	(101		)
	Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	10,106		$	10,985
	____________________________
	-1	Consists primarily of amounts due from franchisees.
	-2	Consists primarily of the capital note contributions from Jack in the Box which are eliminated in consolidation.

Segment_Reporting_Tables

Segment Reporting (Tables)	4 Months Ended
	Jan. 19, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'
Summarized Financial Information Of Reportable Segments	'
		Sixteen Weeks Ended
		January 19,			January 19,			January 20,
		2014			2014			2013
		(New)			(Old)
	Revenues by segment:
	Jack in the Box restaurant operations segment	$	349,824		$	349,824		$	367,576
	Qdoba restaurant operations segment	100,257			100,257			86,759
	Consolidated revenues	$	450,081		$	450,081		$	454,335
	Earnings from operations by segment:
	Jack in the Box restaurant operations segment	$	76,366		$	48,251		$	37,217
	Qdoba restaurant operations segment	9,606			8,995			6,006
	FFE operations (1)	—			(42		)	(49		)
	Shared services and unallocated costs	(29,229		)	—			—
	Gains on the sale of company-operated restaurants	461			—			—
	Consolidated earnings from operations	$	57,204		$	57,204		$	43,174
	Total depreciation expense by segment:
	Jack in the Box restaurant operations segment	$	20,851		$	22,990		$	23,683
	Qdoba restaurant operations segment	5,230			5,230			4,689
	Shared services and unallocated costs	2,139			—			—
	Consolidated depreciation expense	$	28,220		$	28,220		$	28,372
Schedule of Goodwill	'
	The following table provides detail of the change in the balance of goodwill for each of our reportable segments (in thousands):
		Qdoba			Jack in the Box			Total
	Balance at September 29, 2013	$	100,597		$	48,391		$	148,988
	Additions	—			256			256
	Disposals	—			(9		)	(9		)
	Balance at January 19, 2014	$	100,597		$	48,638		$	149,235

Supplemental_Consolidated_Cash1

Supplemental Consolidated Cash Flow Information (Tables)	4 Months Ended
	Jan. 19, 2014
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]	'
Additional Information Related To Cash Flows	'
		January 19,		January 20,
		2014		2013
	Cash paid during the year for:
	Interest, net of amounts capitalized	$	5,357	$	5,573
	Income tax payments	$	16,684	$	12,357

Supplemental_Consolidated_Bala1

Supplemental Consolidated Balance Sheet Information (Tables)	4 Months Ended
	Jan. 19, 2014
Supplemental Balance Sheet Disclosures [Line Items]	'
Schedule Of Supplemental Consolidated Balance Sheet Information	'
		January 19,		September 29,
		2014		2013
	Other assets, net:
	Company-owned life insurance policies	$	97,821	$	94,704
	Deferred tax assets	89,329		88,833
	Other	81,285		82,223
		$	268,435	$	265,760
	Accrued liabilities:
	Payroll and related taxes	$	34,625	$	46,970
	Sales and property taxes	13,822		11,386
	Advertising	14,295		17,706
	Insurance	35,017		35,209
	Lease commitments related to closed or refranchised locations	9,844		12,737
	Other	25,236		29,878
		$	132,839	$	153,886
	Other long-term liabilities:
	Pension plans	$	101,815	$	105,968
	Straight-line rent accrual	50,397		50,726
	Other	125,068		129,430
		$	277,280	$	286,124

Basis_Of_Presentation_Details

Basis Of Presentation (Details)	Jan. 19, 2014	Jan. 20, 2013
	restaurant	restaurant
Jack In The Box [Member]	'	'
Nature Of Operations And Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'
Number of restaurants	2,254	2,255
Qdoba [Member]	'	'
Nature Of Operations And Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'
Number of restaurants	620	636
Entity Operated Units [Member] | Jack In The Box [Member]	'	'
Nature Of Operations And Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'
Number of restaurants	469	551
Entity Operated Units [Member] | Qdoba [Member]	'	'
Nature Of Operations And Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'
Number of restaurants	301	325
Franchised Units [Member] | Jack In The Box [Member]	'	'
Nature Of Operations And Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'
Number of restaurants	1,785	1,704
Franchised Units [Member] | Qdoba [Member]	'	'
Nature Of Operations And Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'
Number of restaurants	319	311

Basis_Of_Presentation_Presenta

Basis Of Presentation Presentation Details (Details) (2013 Qdoba Closures [Member])	Jul. 07, 2013
	restaurant
2013 Qdoba Closures [Member]	'
Number of restaurants closed [Line Items]	'
Number of Restaurants	62

Discontinued_Operations_Detail

Discontinued Operations (Details) (USD $)	4 Months Ended
	Jan. 19, 2014	Jan. 20, 2013
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]	'	'
Gain (Loss) on Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedge Ineffectiveness	$0	$0
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]	'	'
Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal of Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax	-724,000	-5,420,000
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations and Disposal of Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Basic Share	($0.02)	($0.13)
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations and Disposal of Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Diluted Share	($0.02)	($0.12)
Asset Impairment Charges	95,000	2,522,000
2013 Qdoba Closures [Member]	'	'
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]	'	'
Disposal group, Including Discontinued Operations, Brokerage Commissions	200,000	'
Revenue	0	11,188,000
Operating loss before income tax benefit	-588,000	-3,510,000
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Future Lease Commitments	300,000	'
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]	'	'
Balance at beginning of period	10,712,000	'
Cash payments	3,395,000	'
Balance at end of period	7,031,000	'
Restructuring Reserve, Accrual Adjustment	-286,000	'
Asset Impairment Charges	300,000	'
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Favorable adjustment for Future Lease Commitments	300,000	'
Discontinued Operation - Distribution Business [Member]	'	'
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]	'	'
Revenue	0	37,743,000
Operating loss before income tax benefit	-572,000	-5,262,000
Restructuring reserve, accelerated depreciation	400,000	'
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Future Lease Commitments	100,000	'
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]	'	'
Balance at beginning of period	1,318,000	'
Balance at end of period	1,127,000	'
Restructuring Reserve, Accrual Adjustment	79,000	'
Cash paid to settle restructuring reserve	($270,000)	'

Indebtedness_Details

Indebtedness (Details) (USD $)	4 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 19, 2014	Jan. 20, 2013
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Proceeds from issuance of debt	$0	$200,000

Summary_Of_Refranchisings_Fran2

Summary Of Refranchisings, Franchisee Development And Acquisitions (Number Of Restaurants Sold And Developed By Franchisees And Related Gains And Fees Recognized) (Details) (USD $)	4 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 19, 2014	Jan. 20, 2013
	restaurant	restaurant
Summary Of Refranchisings, Franchisee Development And Acquisitions [Abstract]	'	'
New restaurants opened by franchisees	13	20
Initial franchise fees	$399	$646
Proceeds	-468	-833
Net assets sold (primarily property and equipment)	0	-85
Goodwill related to the sale of company-operated restaurants	-9	0
Disposal Group, Not Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal	($461)	($748)

Summary_Of_Refranchisings_Fran3

Summary Of Refranchisings, Franchisee Development And Acquisitions (Purchase Price Allocations On Franchise Acquisitions) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	4 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jul. 08, 2012	Jan. 19, 2014	Jan. 20, 2013
		restaurant	restaurant
Summary Of Refranchisings, Franchisee Development And Acquisitions [Line Items]	'	'	'
Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses	'	$468	$833
Goodwill, Acquired During Period	'	256	'
Assets, Written off Related to Sale of Business Unit	'	0	85
Goodwill, Written off Related to Sale of Business Unit	'	9	0
Disposal Group Not Discontinued Operation Other Gain Loss On Disposal	0	-2	'
Disposal Group, Not Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal	'	461	748
Number of New Restaurants Opened by Franchisees	'	13	20
Qdoba [Member]	'	'	'
Summary Of Refranchisings, Franchisee Development And Acquisitions [Line Items]	'	'	'
Restaurants acquired from franchisees	'	'	6
Significant Changes, Franchises Purchased During Period	'	'	7
Property and equipment	'	'	1,138
Reacquired franchise rights	'	'	96
Liabilities assumed	'	'	-95
Goodwill, Acquired During Period	'	0	6,661
Total consideration	'	'	7,800
Jack In Box [Member]	'	'	'
Summary Of Refranchisings, Franchisee Development And Acquisitions [Line Items]	'	'	'
Restaurants acquired from franchisees	'	4	1
Significant Changes, Franchises Purchased During Period	'	4	'
Property and equipment	'	1,398	'
Reacquired franchise rights	'	96	'
Liabilities assumed	'	0	'
Goodwill, Acquired During Period	'	256	'
Total consideration	'	1,750	'
Goodwill, Written off Related to Sale of Business Unit	'	-9	'
Subtotal of gains (losses) on sale of company-operated restaurants [Member]	'	'	'
Summary Of Refranchisings, Franchisee Development And Acquisitions [Line Items]	'	'	'
Disposal Group, Not Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal	'	'	$748

Fair_Value_Measurements_Financ

Fair Value Measurements (Financial Assets And Liabilities Measured At Fair Value On Recurring Basis) (Details) (Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member], USD $)	Jan. 19, 2014		Sep. 29, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'		'
Total liabilities at fair value	($39,225)		($40,325)
Interest Rate Swaps [Member]	'		'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'		'
Total liabilities at fair value	-818	[1]	-1,190	[1]
Non Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan [Member]	'		'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'		'
Total liabilities at fair value	-38,407	[2]	-39,135	[2]
Quoted Prices In Active Markets For Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member]	'		'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'		'
Total liabilities at fair value	-38,407	[3]	-39,135	[3]
Quoted Prices In Active Markets For Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member] | Interest Rate Swaps [Member]	'		'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'		'
Total liabilities at fair value	0	[1],[3]	0	[1],[3]
Quoted Prices In Active Markets For Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member] | Non Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan [Member]	'		'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'		'
Total liabilities at fair value	-38,407	[2],[3]	-39,135	[2],[3]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]	'		'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'		'
Total liabilities at fair value	-818	[3]	-1,190	[3]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Interest Rate Swaps [Member]	'		'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'		'
Total liabilities at fair value	-818	[1],[3]	-1,190	[1],[3]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Non Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan [Member]	'		'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'		'
Total liabilities at fair value	0	[2],[3]	0	[2],[3]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]	'		'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'		'
Total liabilities at fair value	0		0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Interest Rate Swaps [Member]	'		'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'		'
Total liabilities at fair value	0	[1]	0	[1]
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Non Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan [Member]	'		'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'		'
Total liabilities at fair value	$0	[2]	$0	[2]
[1]	We entered into interest rate swaps to reduce our exposure to rising interest rates on our variable debt. The fair values of our interest rate swaps are based upon Level 2 inputs which include valuation models as reported by our counterparties. The key inputs for the valuation models are quoted market prices, interest rates and forward yield curves.
[2]	We maintain an unfunded defined contribution plan for key executives and other members of management excluded from participation in our qualified savings plan. The fair value of this obligation is based on the closing market prices of the participants’ elected investments.
[3]	We did not have any transfers in or out of Level 1 or Level 2.

Derivative_Instruments_Narrati

Derivative Instruments (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	4 Months Ended
	Jan. 19, 2014	Jan. 20, 2013	Aug. 31, 2010
			agreements
Derivative [Line Items]	'	'	'
Interest rate derivatives held	'	'	2
Interest rate swaps hedge ineffectiveness	$0	$0	'
Interest Rate Swaps [Member]	'	'	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'	'	'
Converted fixed-rate term loan borrowings	'	'	100,000,000

Derivative_Instruments_Derivat

Derivative Instruments (Derivative Instruments Outstanding) (Details) (Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member], Interest Rate Swaps [Member], USD $)	Jan. 19, 2014	Sep. 29, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'
Total liabilities at fair value	($818)	($1,190)
Derivatives Accrued Liabilities [Member]	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'
Total liabilities at fair value	($818)	($1,190)

Derivative_Instruments_Gains_O

Derivative Instruments (Gains Or Losses Recognized On Interest Rate Swap Derivative Instruments) (Details) (USD $)	4 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 19, 2014	Jan. 20, 2013
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'
Gain (loss) recognized in OCI	($54)	$4
Loss reclassified from accumulated OCI into income	-426	-413
Interest Rate Swaps [Member] | Derivatives Designated As Hedging Instrument [Member]	'	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'
Gain (loss) recognized in OCI	-54	4
Interest Rate Swaps [Member] | Interest Expense, Net [Member] | Derivatives Designated As Hedging Instrument [Member]	'	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'
Loss reclassified from accumulated OCI into income	($426)	($413)

Impairment_Disposition_Of_Prop2

Impairment, Disposition Of Property And Equipment, Restaurant Closing Costs And Restructuring (Details) (USD $)	4 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 19, 2014	Jan. 20, 2013
		litigation
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'	'
Asset Impairment Charges	$95	$2,522
Losses (gains) on the disposition of property and equipment, net	992	-832
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost	564	751
Impairment and other charges, net	1,909	3,253
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]	'	'
Severance costs	298	368
Restructuring Charges	298	812
Other restructuring costs	0	444
Number of Closed Restaurants Related to Eminent Domain Proceeds in Current Period	'	2
Gains from imminent domain [Member]	'	'
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'	'
Losses (gains) on the disposition of property and equipment, net	'	-2,100
Facility Closing [Member]	'	'
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]	'	'
Balance at beginning of period	16,321	20,677
Cash payments	-1,434	-1,542
Balance at end of period	15,499	19,561
Restructuring costs	612	426
Employee Severance [Member]	'	'
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]	'	'
Balance at beginning of period	253	1,758
Cash payments	453	1,455
Severance costs	298	368
Balance at end of period	98	671
Continuing Operations [Member]	'	'
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'	'
Losses (gains) on the disposition of property and equipment, net	$952	($832)

Income_Taxes_Details

Income Taxes (Details) (USD $)	4 Months Ended
	Jan. 19, 2014	Jan. 20, 2013
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]	'	'
Gain (Loss) on Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedge Ineffectiveness	$0	$0
Effective tax rates	37.30%	30.90%
Gross unrecognized tax benefits associated with uncertain income tax positions	$800,000	'

Retirement_Plans_Components_Of

Retirement Plans (Components Of Net Periodic Benefit Cost) (Details) (USD $)	4 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 19, 2014	Jan. 20, 2013
Defined Benefit Pension Plans [Member]	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Service cost	$2,499	$3,308
Interest cost	7,152	6,963
Expected return on plan assets	-7,536	-6,989
Actuarial loss	1,364	5,488
Amortization of unrecognized prior service cost	83	83
Net periodic benefit cost	3,562	8,853
Postretirement Healthcare Plans [Member]	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Interest cost	504	488
Actuarial loss	167	243
Net periodic benefit cost	$671	$731

Retirement_Plans_Schedule_Of_F

Retirement Plans (Schedule Of Future Cash Flows) (Details) (USD $)	4 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
	Jan. 19, 2014	Sep. 28, 2014
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Minimum required contribution for retirement plans	$0	'
Defined Benefit Pension Plans [Member]	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Net year-to-date contributions	6,269,000	'
Remaining estimated net contributions during fiscal 2012	'	18,100,000
Postretirement Healthcare Plans [Member]	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Net year-to-date contributions	289,000	'
Remaining estimated net contributions during fiscal 2012	'	$1,149,000

ShareBased_Compensation_Schedu

Share-Based Compensation (Schedule Of Share-Based Awards Granted) (Details)	4 Months Ended
	Jan. 19, 2014
Stock Options [Member]	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'
Shares	215,248
Performance-Vested Stock Awards [Member]	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'
Shares	55,668
Nonvested Stock Units [Member]	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'
Shares	102,232

ShareBased_Compensation_Compon

Share-Based Compensation (Components Of Share-Based Compensation Expense) (Details) (USD $)	4 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 19, 2014	Jan. 20, 2013
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'
Share-based compensation expense	$3,801	$4,062
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense	3,801	4,062
Stock Options [Member]	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense	1,289	1,890
Performance-Vested Stock Awards [Member]	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense	1,497	1,117
Nonvested Stock Awards [Member]	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense	173	134
Nonvested Stock Units [Member]	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense	$842	$921

Stockholders_Equity_Narrative_

Stockholders' Equity (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	4 Months Ended		10 Months Ended	21 Months Ended	24 Months Ended
Share data in Millions, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 19, 2014	Jan. 20, 2013	Nov. 15, 2014	Nov. 15, 2015	Nov. 15, 2014
Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Repurchase of common stock, authorized amount	'	'	'	$200,000,000	$100,000,000
Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired	1.6	'	'	'	'
Repurchase of common stock, remaining authorized amount	'	'	59,700,000	'	'
Repurchases of common stock	84,318,000	26,888,000	'	'	'
Fiscal 2013 Trades Settled Fiscal 2014 [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Repurchases of common stock	7,300,000	'	'	'	'
Treasury Stock [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Repurchases of common stock	$77,000,000	'	'	'	'

Average_Shares_Outstanding_Rec

Average Shares Outstanding (Reconciliation Of Basic Weighted-Average Shares Outstanding To Diluted Weighted-Average Shares Outstanding) (Details)	4 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 19, 2014	Jan. 20, 2013
Average Shares Outstanding [Line Items]	'	'
Weighted-average shares outstanding - basic	42,434	42,997
Weighted-average shares outstanding - diluted	43,838	44,356
Excluded from diluted weighted-average shares outstanding, Antidilutive	151	1,097
Excluded from diluted weighted-average shares outstanding, Performance conditions not satisfied at the end of the period	52	202
Stock Options [Member]	'	'
Average Shares Outstanding [Line Items]	'	'
Effect of potentially dilutive securities	765	821
Nonvested Stock Awards And Units [Member]	'	'
Average Shares Outstanding [Line Items]	'	'
Effect of potentially dilutive securities	372	297
Performance-Vested Stock Awards [Member]	'	'
Average Shares Outstanding [Line Items]	'	'
Effect of potentially dilutive securities	267	241

Variable_Interest_Entities_Nar

Variable Interest Entities (Narrative) (Details) (Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member], USD $)	Jan. 19, 2014
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]	'
Commitment to lending program from company through capital note	$20,000,000
Long-term Line of Credit	0
F F E Facility Member	'
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]	'
Senior secured revolving securitization facility	$80,000,000

Variable_Interest_Entities_Com

Variable Interest Entities (Components Of FFE's Balance Sheet) (Details) (USD $)	Jan. 19, 2014		Sep. 29, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]	'		'
Other current assets	$323		$108
Current liabilities	181,087		211,674
Other long-term liabilities	277,280		286,124
Retained earnings	1,204,109		1,171,823
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	1,312,828		1,319,209
Jack In The Box Franchise Finance, LLC (FFE) [Member]	'		'
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]	'		'
Cash	0		250
Other current assets	2,432	[1]	2,368	[1]
Other assets, net	7,674	[1]	8,367	[1]
Total assets	10,106		10,985
Current liabilities	3,034		3,010
Other long-term liabilities	7,129	[2]	8,076	[2]
Retained earnings	-57		-101
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	$10,106		$10,985
[1]	Consists primarily of amounts due from franchisees.
[2]	Consists primarily of the capital note contributions from Jack in the Box which are eliminated in consolidation.

Contingencies_and_Legal_Matter1

Contingencies and Legal Matters (Details) (USD $)	Jan. 19, 2014
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Guarantees [Abstract]	'
General liability and workers' comp estimated claims to be paid by insurance providers	$22.90
Guarantor obligations, maximum exposure, Undiscounted	$2.20

Segment_Reporting_Summarized_F

Segment Reporting (Summarized Financial Information Of Reportable Segments) (Details) (USD $)	4 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 19, 2014	Jan. 20, 2013	Sep. 29, 2013
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Consolidated revenues	$450,081	$454,335	'
Consolidated earnings from operations	57,204	43,174	'
Disposal Group, Not Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal	461	748	'
Consolidated depreciation expense	28,220	28,372	'
Consolidated goodwill	149,235	'	148,988
Goodwill, Acquired During Period	256	'	'
Goodwill, Written off Related to Sale of Business Unit	9	0	'
Total goodwill disposals	-9	'	'
Jack In The Box [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Consolidated revenues	349,824	367,576	'
Consolidated earnings from operations	48,251	37,217	'
Consolidated depreciation expense	22,990	23,683	'
Consolidated goodwill	48,638	'	48,391
Goodwill, Acquired During Period	256	'	'
Goodwill, Written off Related to Sale of Business Unit	-9	'	'
Qdoba brand restaurant operations [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Consolidated revenues	100,257	'	'
Consolidated earnings from operations	9,606	'	'
Consolidated depreciation expense	5,230	'	'
Qdoba [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Consolidated revenues	100,257	86,759	'
Consolidated earnings from operations	8,995	6,006	'
Consolidated depreciation expense	5,230	4,689	'
Consolidated goodwill	100,597	'	100,597
Goodwill, Acquired During Period	0	6,661	'
Total goodwill disposals	0	'	'
F F E Operations New [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Consolidated earnings from operations	0	'	'
Jack in the box brand restaurant operations [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Consolidated revenues	349,824	'	'
Consolidated earnings from operations	76,366	'	'
Consolidated depreciation expense	20,851	'	'
FFE Operations [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Consolidated earnings from operations	-42	-49	'
Shared services and unallocated costs [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Consolidated earnings from operations	-29,229	'	'
Consolidated depreciation expense	2,139	'	'
Shared services and unallocated costs old reporting [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Consolidated earnings from operations	0	0	'
Consolidated depreciation expense	0	0	'
Old segment reporting structure [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Disposal Group, Not Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal	$0	$0	'

Supplemental_Consolidated_Cash2

Supplemental Consolidated Cash Flow Information (Additional Information Related To Cash Flows) (Details) (USD $)	4 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 19, 2014	Jan. 20, 2013
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]	'	'
Interest, net of amounts capitalized	$5,357	$5,573
Income tax payments	$16,684	$12,357

Supplemental_Consolidated_Bala2

Supplemental Consolidated Balance Sheet Information (Details) (USD $)	Jan. 19, 2014	Sep. 29, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Supplemental Balance Sheet Disclosures [Line Items]	'	'
Company-owned life insurance policies	$97,821	$94,704
Deferred tax asset	89,329	88,833
Other	81,285	82,223
Other assets, net	268,435	265,760
Payroll and related taxes	34,625	46,970
Sales and Excise Tax Payable, Current	13,822	11,386
Advertising	14,295	17,706
Insurance	35,017	35,209
Liabilities of Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Noncurrent	9,844	12,737
Other	25,236	29,878
Accrued liabilities	132,839	153,886
Pension plans	101,815	105,968
Straight-line rent accrual	50,397	50,726
Other	125,068	129,430
Other Liabilities, Noncurrent	$277,280	$286,124

Subsequent_Events_Details

Subsequent Events (Details) (USD $)	4 Months Ended		21 Months Ended	24 Months Ended
	Jan. 19, 2014	Jan. 20, 2013	Nov. 15, 2015	Nov. 15, 2014
Subsequent Event [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses	$468,000	$833,000	'	'
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount	'	'	$200,000,000	$100,000,000