Jack in the Box (JACK) 10-Q 6 Aug 15 2015 Q3 Quarterly report Financial data

Document And Entity Information

Document And Entity Information - shares	9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015	Jul. 31, 2015
Entity Information [Line Items]
Entity Registrant Name	JACK IN THE BOX INC /NEW/
Entity Central Index Key	807,882
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--09-27
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Document Type	10-Q
Document Period End Date	Jul. 5, 2015
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,015
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q3
Amendment Flag	false
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		36,577,272

Condensed Consolidated Balance

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jul. 05, 2015	Sep. 28, 2014
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 17,706	$ 10,578
Accounts and other receivables, net	54,784	50,014
Inventories	7,448	7,481
Prepaid expenses	40,467	36,314
Deferred income taxes	37,377	36,810
Assets held for sale	13,440	4,766
Other current assets	1,494	597
Total current assets	172,716	146,560
Property and equipment, at cost	1,530,709	1,519,947
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization	(826,691)	(797,818)
Property and equipment, net	704,018	722,129
Intangible assets, net	14,955	15,604
Goodwill	149,042	149,074
Other assets, net	234,883	237,298
Total assets	1,275,614	1,270,665
Current liabilities:
Current maturities of long-term debt	18,483	10,871
Accounts payable	26,064	31,810
Accrued liabilities	172,484	163,626
Total current liabilities	217,031	206,307
Long-term debt, net of current maturities	640,076	497,012
Other long-term liabilities	312,309	309,435
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, 81,070,256 and 80,127,387 issued, respectively	811	801
Capital in excess of par value	399,180	356,727
Retained earnings	1,303,892	1,244,897
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(91,747)	(90,132)
Treasury stock, at cost, 44,517,922 and 41,571,752 shares, respectively	(1,505,938)	(1,254,382)
Total stockholders’ equity	106,198	257,911
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	$ 1,275,614	$ 1,270,665

Condensed Consolidated Balance3

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - $ / shares	Jul. 05, 2015	Sep. 28, 2014
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	81,070,256	80,127,387
Treasury stock at cost, shares	44,517,922	41,571,752

Condensed Consolidated Statemen

Condensed Consolidated Statements Of Earnings - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015	Jul. 06, 2014	Jul. 05, 2015	Jul. 06, 2014
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid	$ 0.30	$ 0.20	$ 0.70	$ 0.20
Revenues:
Company restaurant sales	$ 270,655	$ 264,398	$ 891,455	$ 861,000
Franchise revenues	88,851	84,094	294,794	278,444
Total revenue	359,506	348,492	1,186,249	1,139,444
Company restaurant costs:
Food and packaging	82,649	84,459	279,790	274,119
Payroll and employee benefits	72,896	71,733	241,648	237,165
Occupancy and other	56,103	57,671	187,602	189,378
Total company restaurant costs	211,648	213,863	709,040	700,662
Franchise costs	42,536	42,563	142,736	140,070
Selling, general and administrative expenses	50,986	47,422	166,553	155,238
Impairment and other charges, net	3,758	1,668	8,068	12,633
Losses (gains) on the sale of company-operated restaurants	183	(24)	4,353	(2,242)
Total operating costs and expenses	309,111	305,492	1,030,750	1,006,361
Earnings from operations	50,395	43,000	155,499	133,083
Interest expense, net	4,504	3,535	13,937	12,388
Earnings from continuing operations and before income taxes	45,891	39,465	141,562	120,695
Income taxes	17,528	13,338	52,739	43,294
Earnings from continuing operations	28,363	26,127	88,823	77,401
Losses from discontinued operations, net of income tax benefit	(1,532)	(1,424)	(3,152)	(4,611)
Net earnings	$ 26,831	$ 24,703	$ 85,671	$ 72,790
Net earnings per share - basic:
Earnings from continuing operations (usd per share)	$ 0.76	$ 0.66	$ 2.34	$ 1.87
Losses from discontinued operations (usd per share)	(0.04)	(0.04)	(0.08)	(0.11)
Net earnings per share (usd per share)	0.72	0.62	2.26	1.76
Net earnings per share - diluted:
Earnings from continuing operations (usd per share)	0.75	0.64	2.30	1.82
Losses from discontinued operations (usd per share)	(0.04)	(0.03)	(0.08)	(0.11)
Net earnings per share (usd per share)	$ 0.71	$ 0.61	$ 2.22	$ 1.71
Weighted-average shares outstanding:
Basic (in shares)	37,106	39,692	37,980	41,320
Diluted (in shares)	37,661	40,787	38,630	42,605

Condensed Consolidated Stateme5

Condensed Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015	Jul. 06, 2014	Jul. 05, 2015	Jul. 06, 2014
Net earnings	$ 26,831	$ 24,703	$ 85,671	$ 72,790
Net change in fair value of derivatives	(5,027)	(14)	(11,699)	(99)
Net loss reclassified to earnings	461	324	1,556	1,072
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, before Tax	(4,566)	310	(10,143)	973
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Tax	1,748	(119)	3,883	(373)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax	(2,818)	191	(6,260)	600
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, before Tax	2,276	1,210	7,587	4,035
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Tax	(872)	(464)	(2,905)	(1,548)
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax	1,404	746	4,682	2,487
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, before Tax	(72)	(2)	(56)	5
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Tax	24	1	19	(2)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax	(48)	(1)	(37)	3
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	(1,462)	936	(1,615)	3,090
Comprehensive income	$ 25,369	$ 25,639	$ 84,056	$ 75,880

Condensed Consolidated Stateme6

Condensed Consolidated Statements Of Cash Flows - Segment, Operating Activities [Domain] - USD ($) $ in Thousands		9 Months Ended
		Jul. 05, 2015	Jul. 06, 2014
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net earnings		$ 85,671	$ 72,790
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization		68,205	70,585
Deferred finance cost amortization		1,690	1,677
Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Operating Activities		(17,781)	(15,167)
Deferred income taxes		(4,046)	(84)
Share-based compensation expense		10,041	8,128
Pension and postretirement expense		14,423	10,585
Gains on cash surrender value of company-owned life insurance		(1,960)	(8,312)
Losses (gains) on the sale of company-operated restaurants		4,353	(2,242)
Losses on the disposition of property and equipment		1,074	1,051
Impairment charges and other		4,813	8,543
Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt		0	789
Changes in assets and liabilities, excluding acquisitions and dispositions:
Accounts and other receivables		(6,895)	(9,376)
Inventories		33	(516)
Prepaid expenses and other current assets		20,760	(4,647)
Accounts payable		690	(3,035)
Accrued liabilities		4,215	6,950
Pension and postretirement contributions		(14,359)	(14,107)
Other		(5,782)	(9,689)
Cash flows provided by operating activities		165,145	113,923
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchases of property and equipment		(54,832)	(43,825)
Purchases Of Assets Held For Sale And Leaseback		(8,323)	(19)
Proceeds from sale and leaseback of assets		0	5,698
Proceeds from the sale of company-operated restaurants	[1]	2,651	8,199
Collections on notes receivable		5,648	2,555
Acquisitions of franchise-operated restaurants		0	(1,750)
Other		1,888	2,838
Cash flows used in investing activities		(52,968)	(26,304)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Borrowings on revolving credit facilities		742,000	618,000
Repayments of borrowings on revolving credit facilities		(698,000)	(460,000)
Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt		300,000	200,000
Principal repayments on debt		(198,217)	(193,262)
Payments of Debt Issuance Costs		(1,942)	(3,607)
Payments of Ordinary Dividends		(26,556)	(7,990)
Proceeds from issuance of common stock		14,590	27,069
Repurchases of common stock		(254,668)	(284,258)
Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation arrangements		17,781	15,167
Change in book overdraft		0	1,507
Cash flows used in financing activities		(105,012)	(87,374)
Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents		(37)	3
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents		7,128	248
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period		10,578	$ 9,644
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period		$ 17,706
[1]	Amounts in 2015 and 2014 include additional proceeds recognized upon the extension of the underlying franchise and lease agreements related to restaurants sold in a prior year of $0.1 million and $0.4 million, respectively, in the quarter, and $0.2 million and $1.5 million, respectively, year-to-date.

Basis Of Presentation

Basis Of Presentation	9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015
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: July 5, July 6, Jack in the Box: Company-operated 413 455 Franchise 1,835 1,797 Total system 2,248 2,252 Qdoba: Company-operated 314 308 Franchise 334 324 Total system 648 632 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 2013 Qdoba Closures 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 28, 2014 . The accounting policies used in preparing these condensed consolidated financial statements are the same as those described in our Form 10-K with the exception of new accounting pronouncements adopted in fiscal 2015 which are described below. 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 13, Variable Interest Entities . Reclassifications and adjustments — Certain prior year amounts in the condensed consolidated financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the fiscal 2015 presentation. Fiscal year — Our fiscal year is 52 or 53 weeks ending the Sunday closest to September 30 . Fiscal years 2015 and 2014 include 52 weeks. Our first quarter includes 16 weeks and all other quarters include 12 weeks. All comparisons between 2015 and 2014 refer to the 12-weeks (“quarter”) and 40-weeks (“year-to-date”) ended July 5, 2015 and July 6, 2014 , 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. Effect of new accounting pronouncements — In April 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2014-08, Presentation of Financial Statements (Topic 205) and Property, Plant, and Equipment (Topic 360): Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity , which modifies the definition of discontinued operations to include only disposals of an entity that represent strategic shifts that have or will have a major effect on an entity's operations and financial results. This ASU also expands the disclosure requirements for disposals which meet the definition of a discontinued operation and requires entities to disclose information about disposals of individually significant components that do not meet the definition of discontinued operations. The standard is effective prospectively for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2014, with early adoption permitted. We early adopted this standard on September 29, 2014. This pronouncement did not have a material impact on our condensed consolidated financial statements. In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers , which provides a comprehensive new revenue recognition model that requires a company to recognize revenue in an amount that reflects the consideration it expects to receive for the transfer of promised goods or services to its customers. The standard also requires additional disclosure regarding the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from contracts with customers. This ASU is effective for annual periods and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2016. The ASU is to be applied retrospectively or using a cumulative effect transition method and early adoption is not permitted. In July 2015, the FASB affirmed its proposal to defer this ASU's effective date by one year, to December 15, 2017. The deferral allows early adoption at the original effective date. We are currently evaluating the effect that this pronouncement will have on our consolidated financial statements and related disclosures. In June 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-12, Accounting for Share-Based Payments when the Terms of an Award Provide That a Performance Target Could Be Achieved after the Requisite Service Period , which requires a reporting entity to treat a performance target that affects vesting and that could be achieved after the requisite service period as a performance condition. This standard is to be applied prospectively for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2015, with early adoption permitted. We early adopted this standard on September 29, 2014. This pronouncement did not have a material impact on our condensed consolidated financial statements. In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-03, Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs , which changes the presentation of debt issuance costs in financial statements. Under this ASU, an entity presents such costs on the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the related debt liability rather than as an asset. This new standard is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2015, including interim periods within that reporting period, with early adoption permitted. We do not plan to adopt this standard early and do not expect that it will have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements or disclosures upon adoption. In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-04, Practical Expedient for the Measurement Date of an Employer's Defined Benefit Obligation and Plan Assets , which provides a practical expedient that permits a company to measure defined benefit plan assets and obligations using the month-end date that is closest to the company's fiscal year-end and apply that practical expedient consistently from year to year. The practical expedient should be applied consistently to all plans if the company has more than one plan. This ASU is effective prospectively for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015, and interim periods within those fiscal years, with early adoption permitted. We do not expect this standard to have a material impact our consolidated financial statements upon adoption.

Discontinued Operations

Discontinued Operations	9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015
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 ASC 205, Presentation of Financial Statements , the results are reported as discontinued operations for all periods presented. In 2015 and 2014, we recognized operating losses before taxes of $0.3 million and $0.6 million , respectively, in the quarter, and $0.5 million and $1.3 million , respectively, year-to-date. In the year-to-date period, operating losses before taxes include $0.3 million and $0.9 million in 2015 and 2014, respectively, related to insurance and other settlements, and $0.2 million and $0.3 million , respectively, related to our lease commitments. Our liability for lease commitments related to our distribution centers is included in accrued liabilities and other long-term liabilities, and was $0.3 million and $0.5 million as of July 5, 2015 and September 28, 2014, respectively. The lease commitment balance as of July 5, 2015 relates to one distribution center subleased at a loss. 2013 Qdoba 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 predominantly located near those remaining in operation, we did not expect the majority of cash flows and sales lost from these closures to be recovered. In addition, we did not anticipate 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. In the quarter and year-to-date periods, we recognized operating losses before income taxes of $2.2 million and $4.6 million , respectively, in 2015, and $1.7 million and $6.1 million , respectively, in 2014. In 2015, the year-to-date operating losses include $3.9 million of unfavorable lease commitment adjustments, $0.3 million of bad debt expense related to a subtenant, $0.2 million of ongoing facility related costs and $0.2 million of broker commissions. In 2014, the year-to-date operating losses include $4.2 million of unfavorable lease commitment adjustments, $0.4 million for asset impairments, $0.7 million of ongoing facility related costs and $0.5 million of broker commissions. We do not expect the remaining costs to be incurred related to these closures to be material; however, the estimates we make related to our future lease obligations, primarily the sublease income we anticipate, are subject to a high degree of judgment and may differ from actual sublease income due to changes in economic conditions, desirability of the sites and other factors. Our liability for lease commitments related to the 2013 Qdoba Closures is included in accrued liabilities and other long-term liabilities and changed as follows in 2015 ( in thousands ): Balance as of September 28, 2014 $ 5,737 Adjustments 3,853 Cash payments (5,225 ) Balance as of July 5, 2015 $ 4,365 Adjustments primarily relate to revisions to certain sublease and cost assumptions due to changes in market conditions as well as charges to terminate four lease agreements. These amounts were partially offset by favorable adjustments for locations that we have subleased.

Indebtedness

Indebtedness	9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term Debt [Text Block]	3. INDEBTEDNESS Amended credit facility — On July 1, 2015, the Company amended its credit facility to increase our overall borrowing capacity. The amended credit facility was increased to $1.2 billion , consisting of (i) a $900.0 million revolving credit facility and (ii) a $300.0 million term loan facility. The interest rate did not change as a result of the amendment and continues to be based on the Company’s leverage ratio and can range from London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) plus 1.25% to 2.00% . Both the revolving credit facility and the term loan facility maturity dates of March 19, 2019 did not change as part of the amendment. As part of the existing credit agreement, we may also request the issuance of up to $75.0 million in letters of credit, the outstanding amount of which reduces our net borrowing capacity under the agreement. The amendment also, among other things, amended certain covenants already contained in the credit agreement. Use of proceeds — The Company borrowed $300.0 million under the amended term loan and approximately $360.0 million under the amended revolving credit facility. The proceeds from the amendment were used to repay all borrowings under the credit facility prior to the amendment and pay related transaction fees and expenses associated with amending the credit facility, and will also be available for permitted share repurchases, permitted dividends, permitted acquisitions, ongoing working capital requirements and other general corporate purposes. At July 5, 2015, we had borrowings under the revolving credit facility of $350.0 million , $300.0 million outstanding under the term loan and letters of credit outstanding of $22.1 million . Collateral — The Company’s obligations under the credit facility are secured by first priority liens and security interests in the capital stock, partnership, and membership interests owned by the Company and/or its subsidiaries, and any proceeds thereof, subject to certain restrictions. Additionally, there is a negative pledge on all tangible and intangible assets (including all real and personal property), with customary exceptions. Covenants — We are subject to a number of customary covenants under our credit facility, including limitations on additional borrowings, acquisitions, loans to franchisees, lease commitments, stock repurchases and dividend payments, and requirements to maintain certain financial ratios defined in the credit agreement. Repayments — The amended term loan requires amortization in the form of quarterly installments of $3.91 million from September 2015 through March 2016, $5.86 million million from June 2016 through March 2018, and $7.81 million from June 2018 through December 2018 with the remainder due at the expiration of the term loan agreement in March 2019. We are required to make certain mandatory prepayments under certain circumstances and we have the option to make certain prepayments without premium or penalty. The credit facility includes events of default (and related remedies, including acceleration and increased interest rates following an event of default) that are customary for facilities and transactions of this type.

Summary Of Refranchisings, Fran

Summary Of Refranchisings, Franchisee Development And Acquisitions	9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015
Summary Of Refranchisings, Franchisee Development And Acquisitions [Abstract]
Summary Of Refranchisings, Franchisee Development And Acquisitions	SUMMARY OF REFRANCHISINGS, FRANCHISEE DEVELOPMENT AND ACQUISITIONS Refranchisings and franchisee development — The following is a summary of the number of restaurants sold to franchisees, number of restaurants developed by franchisees and the related gains or losses and fees recognized ( dollars in thousands ): Quarter Year-to-date July 5, July 6, July 5, July 6, Restaurants sold to Jack in the Box franchisees — — 21 14 New restaurants opened by franchisees: Jack in the Box 1 3 12 10 Qdoba 4 5 15 17 Initial franchise fees $ 130 $ 207 $ 1,113 $ 1,361 Proceeds from the sale of company-operated restaurants (1) $ 21 $ 357 $ 2,651 $ 8,199 Net assets sold (primarily property and equipment) (204 ) (7 ) (2,638 ) (2,247 ) Goodwill related to the sale of company-operated restaurants — (5 ) (32 ) (134 ) Other (2) — 1 (4,334 ) (139 ) (Losses) gains on the sale of company-operated restaurants $ (183 ) $ 346 $ (4,353 ) $ 5,679 Losses on expected sale of Jack in the Box company-operated markets (3) — (322 ) — (3,437 ) Total (losses) gains on the sale of company-operated restaurants $ (183 ) $ 24 $ (4,353 ) $ 2,242 ____________________________ (1) Amounts in 2015 and 2014 include additional proceeds recognized upon the extension of the underlying franchise and lease agreements related to restaurants sold in a prior year of $0.1 million and $0.4 million , respectively, in the quarter, and $0.2 million and $1.5 million , respectively, year-to-date. (2) Amounts in 2015 include lease commitment charges related to restaurants closed in connection with the sale of the related market, and charges for operating restaurant leases with lease commitments in excess of our sublease rental income. (3) Amounts in 2014 relate to losses on the expected sale of approximately 43 company-operated restaurants in three Jack in the Box markets sold in the fourth quarter of 2014 and the second quarter of 2015. Franchise acquisitions — In 2015, we acquired seven Jack in the Box franchise restaurants in two markets, and during 2014, we repurchased four Jack in the Box franchise restaurants in another market. 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). Acquisitions were not material to our condensed consolidated financial statements in either year.

Fair Value Measurements

Fair Value Measurements	9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015
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 in Active Markets for Identical Assets (3) (Level 1) Significant Other Observable Inputs (3) (Level 2) Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) Fair value measurements as of July 5, 2015: Non-qualified deferred compensation plan (1) $ (37,182 ) $ (37,182 ) $ — $ — Interest rate swaps (Note 6) (2) (11,932 ) — (11,932 ) — Total liabilities at fair value $ (49,114 ) $ (37,182 ) $ (11,932 ) $ — Fair value measurements as of September 28, 2014: Non-qualified deferred compensation plan (1) $ (35,602 ) $ (35,602 ) $ — $ — Interest rate swaps (Note 6) (2) (1,789 ) — (1,789 ) — Total liabilities at fair value $ (37,391 ) $ (35,602 ) $ (1,789 ) $ — ____________________________ (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, 2 or 3. The fair values of our debt instruments are based on the amount of future cash flows associated with each instrument discounted using our borrowing rate. At July 5, 2015 , 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 July 5, 2015 . Non-financial assets and liabilities — Our 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 an annual basis 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 2015, no material fair value adjustments were required. Refer to Note 7, Impairment and Other Charges, Net for additional information regarding impairment charges.

Derivative Instruments

Derivative Instruments	9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015
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 converted $100.0 million of our variable rate term loan borrowings to a fixed-rate basis from September 2011 through September 2014 . In April 2014, we entered into nine forward-starting interest rate swap agreements that effectively convert $300.0 million of our variable rate borrowings to a fixed rate basis from October 2014 through October 2018. In June 2015, we entered into 11 forward-starting interest rate swap agreements that effectively convert an additional $200.0 million of our variable rate borrowings to a fixed rate from October 2015 through October 2018, and $500.0 million from October 2018 through October 2022. These agreements have been designated as cash flow hedges under the terms of the FASB authoritative guidance for derivatives and hedging. To the extent that they are effective in offsetting the variability of the hedged cash flows, changes in the fair values of the derivatives are not included in earnings, but are included in other comprehensive income (“OCI”). These changes in fair value are subsequently reclassified into net earnings as a component of interest expense as the hedged interest payments are made on our term debt. Financial position — The following derivative instruments were outstanding as of the end of each period ( in thousands ): July 5, 2015 September 28, 2014 Balance Sheet Location Fair Value Balance Sheet Location Fair Value Derivatives designated as hedging instruments: Interest rate swaps (Note 5) Accrued liabilities $ (2,341 ) Accrued liabilities $ (1,789 ) Interest rate swaps (Note 5) Other long-term liabilities $ (9,591 ) Other long-term liabilities $ — Total derivatives $ (11,932 ) $ (1,789 ) Financial performance — The following is a summary of the OCI activity related to our interest rate swap derivative instruments ( in thousands ): Location of Loss in Income Quarter Year-to-date July 5, July 6, July 5, July 6, Gain (loss) recognized in OCI N/A $ (5,027 ) $ (14 ) $ (11,699 ) $ (99 ) Loss reclassified from accumulated OCI into net earnings Interest expense, net $ 461 $ 324 $ 1,556 $ 1,072 Amounts reclassified from accumulated OCI into interest expense represent payments made to the counterparties 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	9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]
Schedule of Impairment and Other Charges Net [Text Block]	Impairment and other charges, net in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of earnings is comprised of the following ( in thousands ): Quarter Year-to-date July 5, July 6, July 5, July 6, Accelerated depreciation $ 2,610 $ 152 $ 4,749 $ 1,302 Restaurant impairment charges 24 146 65 326 Losses on the disposition of property and equipment, net 228 491 580 1,042 Costs of closed restaurants (primarily lease obligations) and other 886 318 2,645 1,613 Restructuring costs 10 561 29 8,350 $ 3,758 $ 1,668 $ 8,068 $ 12,633

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	INCOME TAXES The income tax provisions reflect tax rates of 38.2% in the quarter and 37.3% year-to-date in 2015, compared with 33.8% and 35.9% , respectively, a year ago. The major component of the year-over-year change in tax rates was an increase in operating earnings before income taxes and a decrease in the market performance of insurance products used to fund certain non-qualified retirement plans which are excluded from taxable income. The quarter tax rate reflects the conclusion of a state audit and the impact of the completion of the federal income tax return completed during the quarter. The final annual tax rate cannot be determined until the end of the fiscal year; therefore, the actual 2015 rate could differ from our current estimates. At July 5, 2015, the Company no longer has any gross unrecognized tax benefits associated with uncertain income tax positions. During the quarter, the Company concluded an audit regarding a specific claim with California. The conclusion of this audit eliminated our unrecognized tax benefits associated with uncertain income tax positions. The Company’s gross unrecognized tax benefits associated with uncertain tax positions were $0.4 million before the conclusion of this audit. We file income tax returns in the United States and all state and local jurisdictions in which we operate that impose an income tax. The federal statutes of limitations have not expired for fiscal years 2012 and forward. The Company’s federal statute of limitations for fiscal years 2009 and 2011 were extended and remain open. The statutes of limitations for California and Texas, which constitute the Company’s major state tax jurisdictions, have not expired for fiscal years 2010 and forward.

Retirement Plans

Retirement Plans	9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015
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 Jack in the Box 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 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 ): Quarter Year-to-date July 5, July 6, July 5, July 6, Defined benefit pension plans: Service cost $ 1,908 $ 1,875 $ 6,360 $ 6,249 Interest cost 5,237 5,364 17,457 17,880 Expected return on plan assets (5,370 ) (5,652 ) (17,901 ) (18,840 ) Actuarial loss (1) 2,172 1,023 7,240 3,411 Amortization of unrecognized prior service costs (1) 62 62 207 207 Net periodic benefit cost $ 4,009 $ 2,672 $ 13,363 $ 8,907 Postretirement healthcare plans: Interest cost $ 276 $ 379 $ 920 $ 1,261 Actuarial loss (1) 42 125 140 417 Net periodic benefit cost $ 318 $ 504 $ 1,060 $ 1,678 ___________________________ (1) Amounts were reclassified from accumulated OCI into net earnings as a component of selling, general and administrative expenses. 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 2015 contributions are as follows ( in thousands ): Defined Benefit Pension Plans Postretirement Healthcare Plans Net year-to-date contributions $ 13,707 $ 652 Remaining estimated net contributions during fiscal 2015 $ 11,000 $ 600 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.

Share-Based Compensation

Share-Based Compensation	9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015
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 fiscal 2015 , we granted the following shares related to our share-based compensation awards: Stock options 123,042 Performance share awards 40,594 Nonvested stock units 93,570 The components of share-based compensation expense recognized in each period are as follows ( in thousands ): Quarter Year-to-date July 5, July 6, July 5, July 6, Stock options $ 585 $ 347 $ 2,139 $ 2,125 Performance share awards 1,335 891 3,407 3,386 Nonvested stock awards 31 46 127 264 Nonvested stock units 723 497 4,105 2,135 Deferred compensation for non-management directors — — 263 218 Total share-based compensation expense $ 2,674 $ 1,781 $ 10,041 $ 8,128

Stockholders' Equity

Stockholders' Equity	9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]
Stockholders' Equity	STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY Repurchases of common stock — In February 2014 and July 2014, the Board of Directors approved two programs, both expiring in November 2015, which provided repurchase authorizations for up to $200.0 million and $100.0 million , respectively, in shares of our common stock. Additionally, in November 2014 and May 2015, the Board of Directors approved two $100.0 million stock buyback programs that expire in November 2016. During fiscal 2015, we repurchased 2.95 million shares at an aggregate cost of $251.6 million and fully utilized the February, July and November 2014 authorizations. As of July 5, 2015 , there was $65.5 million remaining under our May 2015 stock-buyback program which expires in November 2016. Repurchases of common stock included in our condensed consolidated statements of cash flows for 2015 and 2014 include $3.1 million and $7.3 million , respectively, related to repurchase transactions traded in the prior fiscal year and settled in the subsequent quarter. Dividends — During the third quarter of fiscal 2014, the Board of Directors approved the initiation of a regular quarterly cash dividend. In fiscal 2015, the Board of Directors declared two cash dividends of $0.20 per share each, and one cash dividend of $0.30 per share, which were paid to shareholders of record as of December 1, 2014, March 6, 2015, and June 1, 2015, respectively, and totaled $26.7 million . Future dividends are subject to approval by our Board of Directors.

Average Shares Outstanding

Average Shares Outstanding	9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015
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 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 ): Quarter Year-to-date July 5, July 6, July 5, July 6, Weighted-average shares outstanding – basic 37,106 39,692 37,980 41,320 Effect of potentially dilutive securities: Stock options 213 576 301 684 Nonvested stock awards and units 196 247 197 327 Performance share awards 146 272 152 274 Weighted-average shares outstanding – diluted 37,661 40,787 38,630 42,605 Excluded from diluted weighted-average shares outstanding: Antidilutive 99 178 85 145 Performance conditions not satisfied at the end of the period 23 31 17 29

Variable Interest Entities

Variable Interest Entities	9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015
Variable Interest Entities ("VIEs") [Abstract]
Variable Interest Entity Disclosure [Text Block]	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 July 5, 2015 , 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 we are 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 we are the primary beneficiary and the entity is reflected in the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements. FFE’s assets consolidated by us represent assets that can be used only to settle obligations of the consolidated VIE. Likewise, FFE’s liabilities consolidated by us do not represent additional claims on our general assets; rather they represent claims against the specific assets of FFE. The impacts of FFE’s results were not material to our condensed consolidated statements of earnings. The FFE’s balance sheet consisted of the following at the end of each period ( in thousands ): July 5, September 28, Cash $ 159 $ — Other current assets (1) 1,041 2,494 Other assets, net (1) 2,216 5,776 Total assets $ 3,416 $ 8,270 Current liabilities (2) $ 1,153 $ 2,833 Other long-term liabilities (2) 2,127 5,367 Retained earnings 136 70 Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 3,416 $ 8,270 ____________________________ (1) Consists primarily of amounts due from franchisees. (2) Consists primarily of the capital note contribution from Jack in the Box which is eliminated in consolidation. In 2015, we received $3.9 million of early prepayments on notes receivable due from franchisees, which increased our cash flows from investing activities in the year-to-date period. Our maximum exposure to loss is equal to its outstanding contributions as of July 5, 2015 . 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 our variable interest in FFE, we hold a security interest in the assets of FFE subordinate and junior to all other obligations of FFE.
Variable Interest Entities	The FFE’s balance sheet consisted of the following at the end of each period ( in thousands ): July 5, September 28, Cash $ 159 $ — Other current assets (1) 1,041 2,494 Other assets, net (1) 2,216 5,776 Total assets $ 3,416 $ 8,270 Current liabilities (2) $ 1,153 $ 2,833 Other long-term liabilities (2) 2,127 5,367 Retained earnings 136 70 Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 3,416 $ 8,270 ____________________________ (1) Consists primarily of amounts due from franchisees. (2) Consists primarily of the capital note contribution from Jack in the Box which is eliminated in consolidation.

Contingencies and Legal Matters

Contingencies and Legal Matters	9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015
Legal Matters and Contingencies [Abstract]
Legal Matters and Contingencies [Text Block]	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 or financial exposure. We regularly review 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 alleging claims under the federal Fair Labor Standards Act and Oregon wage and hour laws. The plaintiffs alleged 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, and later added additional claims relating to timing of final pay and related wage and hour claims involving employees of a franchisee. The amended complaint seeks damages of $45.0 million but does not provide a basis for that amount. In fiscal 2012, we accrued 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. We have not established a loss contingency accrual for those claims as to which we believe liability is not probable or estimable, and we plan to vigorously defend against this lawsuit. Nonetheless, an unfavorable resolution of this matter in excess of our current accrued loss contingencies 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, we are subject to normal and routine litigation brought by former, current or prospective employees, customers, franchisees, vendors, landlords, shareholders or others, whether individually, collectively or on behalf of a proposed class. We intend to defend ourselves in any such matters. 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. As of July 5, 2015 , our estimated liability for general liability and workers’ compensation claims exceeded our self-insurance retention limits by $24.6 million . We expect to be fully covered for these amounts by surety bond issuers or our insurance providers. Although we currently believe that the ultimate determination of liability in connection with legal claims pending against the company, if any, in excess of amounts already provided for such matters in the consolidated financial statements, will not have a material adverse effect on our business, our 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 matters or contingencies during such period. Lease guarantees — In connection with the sale of the Jack in the Box distribution business, we have assigned the lease at one distribution center to a third party. Under this agreement, which expires in 2017, we remain secondarily liable for the lease payments for which we were responsible under the original lease. As of July 5, 2015 , the amount remaining under the lease guarantee totaled $1.4 million . We have not recorded a liability for the guarantee as the likelihood of the third party defaulting on the assignment agreements was deemed to be less than probable.

Segment Reporting

Segment Reporting	9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015
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. This segment reporting structure reflects our current management structure, internal reporting method and financial information used in deciding how to allocate our resources. Based upon certain quantitative thresholds, each operating segment is considered a reportable segment. 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. The following table provides information related to our segments in each period ( in thousands ): Quarter Year-to-date July 5, July 6, July 5, July 6, Revenues by segment: Jack in the Box restaurant operations $ 263,339 $ 259,737 $ 884,734 $ 869,650 Qdoba restaurant operations 96,167 88,755 301,515 269,794 Consolidated revenues $ 359,506 $ 348,492 $ 1,186,249 $ 1,139,444 Earnings from operations by segment: Jack in the Box restaurant operations $ 62,355 $ 54,413 $ 207,523 $ 184,333 Qdoba restaurant operations 13,805 9,641 37,265 26,354 Shared services and unallocated costs (25,582 ) (21,078 ) (84,936 ) (79,846 ) (Losses) gains on the sale of company-operated restaurants (183 ) 24 (4,353 ) 2,242 Consolidated earnings from operations 50,395 43,000 155,499 133,083 Interest expense, net 4,504 3,535 13,937 12,388 Consolidated earnings from continuing operations and before income taxes $ 45,891 $ 39,465 $ 141,562 $ 120,695 Total depreciation expense by segment: Jack in the Box restaurant operations $ 14,737 $ 15,110 $ 49,051 $ 51,379 Qdoba restaurant operations 3,864 3,893 13,179 13,029 Shared services and unallocated costs 1,573 1,688 5,445 5,612 Consolidated depreciation expense $ 20,174 $ 20,691 $ 67,675 $ 70,020 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 28, 2014 $ 100,597 $ 48,477 $ 149,074 Disposals — (32 ) (32 ) Balance at July 5, 2015 $ 100,597 $ 48,445 $ 149,042 Refer to Note 4, Summary of Refranchisings, Franchisee Development and Acquisitions , for information regarding the transactions resulting in the changes in goodwill.

Supplemental Consolidated Cash

Supplemental Consolidated Cash Flow Information	9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]
Supplemental Consolidated Cash Flow Information	SUPPLEMENTAL CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW INFORMATION ( in thousands ) Year-to-date July 5, July 6, Cash paid during the year for: Interest, net of amounts capitalized $ 13,433 $ 12,100 Income tax payments $ 18,685 $ 28,913 Non-cash transactions: Equipment capital lease obligations incurred $ 4,894 $ — Increase in dividends accrued at period end $ 121 $ 34 Change in obligation for purchases of property and equipment $ (53 ) $ 6,183

Supplemental Consolidated Balan

Supplemental Consolidated Balance Sheet Information	9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015
Balance Sheet Related Disclosures [Abstract]
Supplemental Consolidated Balance Sheet Information	SUPPLEMENTAL CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET INFORMATION (in thousands) July 5, September 28, Prepaid expenses: Prepaid income taxes $ 17,720 $ 27,956 Prepaid rent 13,591 178 Other 9,156 8,180 $ 40,467 $ 36,314 Other assets, net: Company-owned life insurance policies $ 102,713 $ 100,753 Deferred tax assets 46,986 50,807 Other 85,184 85,738 $ 234,883 $ 237,298 Accrued liabilities: Payroll and related taxes $ 54,014 $ 54,905 Insurance 34,588 34,834 Advertising 14,147 21,452 Deferred rent income 15,418 2,432 Lease commitments related to closed or refranchised locations 10,188 10,258 Sales and property taxes 10,805 11,760 Other 33,324 27,985 $ 172,484 $ 163,626 Other long-term liabilities: Pension plans $ 136,047 $ 143,838 Straight-line rent accrual 46,955 48,835 Other 129,307 116,762 $ 312,309 $ 309,435

Subsequent Events

Subsequent Events	9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent Events [Text Block]	SUBSEQUENT EVENTS Declaration of dividend — On July 30, 2015, the Board of Directors declared a cash dividend of $0.30 per share, to be paid on September 9, 2015 to shareholders of record as of the close of business on August 26, 2015. Future dividends will be subject to approval by our Board of Directors.

Basis Of Presentation (Policy)

Basis Of Presentation (Policy)	9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption [Table Text Block]	Effect of new accounting pronouncements — In April 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2014-08, Presentation of Financial Statements (Topic 205) and Property, Plant, and Equipment (Topic 360): Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity , which modifies the definition of discontinued operations to include only disposals of an entity that represent strategic shifts that have or will have a major effect on an entity's operations and financial results. This ASU also expands the disclosure requirements for disposals which meet the definition of a discontinued operation and requires entities to disclose information about disposals of individually significant components that do not meet the definition of discontinued operations. The standard is effective prospectively for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2014, with early adoption permitted. We early adopted this standard on September 29, 2014. This pronouncement did not have a material impact on our condensed consolidated financial statements. In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers , which provides a comprehensive new revenue recognition model that requires a company to recognize revenue in an amount that reflects the consideration it expects to receive for the transfer of promised goods or services to its customers. The standard also requires additional disclosure regarding the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from contracts with customers. This ASU is effective for annual periods and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2016. The ASU is to be applied retrospectively or using a cumulative effect transition method and early adoption is not permitted. In July 2015, the FASB affirmed its proposal to defer this ASU's effective date by one year, to December 15, 2017. The deferral allows early adoption at the original effective date. We are currently evaluating the effect that this pronouncement will have on our consolidated financial statements and related disclosures. In June 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-12, Accounting for Share-Based Payments when the Terms of an Award Provide That a Performance Target Could Be Achieved after the Requisite Service Period , which requires a reporting entity to treat a performance target that affects vesting and that could be achieved after the requisite service period as a performance condition. This standard is to be applied prospectively for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2015, with early adoption permitted. We early adopted this standard on September 29, 2014. This pronouncement did not have a material impact on our condensed consolidated financial statements. In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-03, Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs , which changes the presentation of debt issuance costs in financial statements. Under this ASU, an entity presents such costs on the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the related debt liability rather than as an asset. This new standard is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2015, including interim periods within that reporting period, with early adoption permitted. We do not plan to adopt this standard early and do not expect that it will have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements or disclosures upon adoption. In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-04, Practical Expedient for the Measurement Date of an Employer's Defined Benefit Obligation and Plan Assets , which provides a practical expedient that permits a company to measure defined benefit plan assets and obligations using the month-end date that is closest to the company's fiscal year-end and apply that practical expedient consistently from year to year. The practical expedient should be applied consistently to all plans if the company has more than one plan. This ASU is effective prospectively for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015, and interim periods within those fiscal years, with early adoption permitted. We do not expect this standard to have a material impact our consolidated financial statements upon adoption
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 2013 Qdoba Closures 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 28, 2014 . The accounting policies used in preparing these condensed consolidated financial statements are the same as those described in our Form 10-K with the exception of new accounting pronouncements adopted in fiscal 2015 which are described below.
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 13, Variable Interest Entities .
Reclassification, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Reclassifications and adjustments — Certain prior year amounts in the condensed consolidated financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the fiscal 2015 presentation.
Fiscal year	Fiscal year — Our fiscal year is 52 or 53 weeks ending the Sunday closest to September 30 . Fiscal years 2015 and 2014 include 52 weeks. Our first quarter includes 16 weeks and all other quarters include 12 weeks. All comparisons between 2015 and 2014 refer to the 12-weeks (“quarter”) and 40-weeks (“year-to-date”) ended July 5, 2015 and July 6, 2014 , 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)	9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015
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: July 5, July 6, Jack in the Box: Company-operated 413 455 Franchise 1,835 1,797 Total system 2,248 2,252 Qdoba: Company-operated 314 308 Franchise 334 324 Total system 648 632 The following is a summary of the number of restaurants sold to franchisees, number of restaurants developed by franchisees and the related gains or losses and fees recognized ( dollars in thousands ): Quarter Year-to-date July 5, July 6, July 5, July 6, Restaurants sold to Jack in the Box franchisees — — 21 14 New restaurants opened by franchisees: Jack in the Box 1 3 12 10 Qdoba 4 5 15 17 Initial franchise fees $ 130 $ 207 $ 1,113 $ 1,361 Proceeds from the sale of company-operated restaurants (1) $ 21 $ 357 $ 2,651 $ 8,199 Net assets sold (primarily property and equipment) (204 ) (7 ) (2,638 ) (2,247 ) Goodwill related to the sale of company-operated restaurants — (5 ) (32 ) (134 ) Other (2) — 1 (4,334 ) (139 ) (Losses) gains on the sale of company-operated restaurants $ (183 ) $ 346 $ (4,353 ) $ 5,679 Losses on expected sale of Jack in the Box company-operated markets (3) — (322 ) — (3,437 ) Total (losses) gains on the sale of company-operated restaurants $ (183 ) $ 24 $ (4,353 ) $ 2,242

Discontinued Operations (Tables

Discontinued Operations (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs	Restructuring costs — Since the beginning of 2012, we have been engaged in efforts to improve our cost structure and identify opportunities to reduce general and administrative expenses as well as improve profitability across both brands. The following is a summary of the costs incurred in connection with these activities ( in thousands ): Quarter Year-to-date July 5, July 6, July 5, July 6, Severance costs $ 10 $ 468 $ 29 $ 1,864 Other — 93 — 6,486 $ 10 $ 561 $ 29 $ 8,350 In 2014, other costs represents an impairment charge recognized in the second quarter of fiscal 2014 related to a restaurant software asset we no longer planned to place in service as we integrate certain systems across both of our brands. We may incur additional charges related to our restructuring activities; however, we are unable to make a reasonable estimate at this time.
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 changed as follows in 2015 ( in thousands ): Balance as of September 28, 2014 $ 5,737 Adjustments 3,853 Cash payments (5,225 ) Balance as of July 5, 2015 $ 4,365

Summary Of Refranchisings, Fr28

Summary Of Refranchisings, Franchisee Development And Acquisitions (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015
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: July 5, July 6, Jack in the Box: Company-operated 413 455 Franchise 1,835 1,797 Total system 2,248 2,252 Qdoba: Company-operated 314 308 Franchise 334 324 Total system 648 632 The following is a summary of the number of restaurants sold to franchisees, number of restaurants developed by franchisees and the related gains or losses and fees recognized ( dollars in thousands ): Quarter Year-to-date July 5, July 6, July 5, July 6, Restaurants sold to Jack in the Box franchisees — — 21 14 New restaurants opened by franchisees: Jack in the Box 1 3 12 10 Qdoba 4 5 15 17 Initial franchise fees $ 130 $ 207 $ 1,113 $ 1,361 Proceeds from the sale of company-operated restaurants (1) $ 21 $ 357 $ 2,651 $ 8,199 Net assets sold (primarily property and equipment) (204 ) (7 ) (2,638 ) (2,247 ) Goodwill related to the sale of company-operated restaurants — (5 ) (32 ) (134 ) Other (2) — 1 (4,334 ) (139 ) (Losses) gains on the sale of company-operated restaurants $ (183 ) $ 346 $ (4,353 ) $ 5,679 Losses on expected sale of Jack in the Box company-operated markets (3) — (322 ) — (3,437 ) Total (losses) gains on the sale of company-operated restaurants $ (183 ) $ 24 $ (4,353 ) $ 2,242

Fair Value Measurements (Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
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 in Active Markets for Identical Assets (3) (Level 1) Significant Other Observable Inputs (3) (Level 2) Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) Fair value measurements as of July 5, 2015: Non-qualified deferred compensation plan (1) $ (37,182 ) $ (37,182 ) $ — $ — Interest rate swaps (Note 6) (2) (11,932 ) — (11,932 ) — Total liabilities at fair value $ (49,114 ) $ (37,182 ) $ (11,932 ) $ — Fair value measurements as of September 28, 2014: Non-qualified deferred compensation plan (1) $ (35,602 ) $ (35,602 ) $ — $ — Interest rate swaps (Note 6) (2) (1,789 ) — (1,789 ) — Total liabilities at fair value $ (37,391 ) $ (35,602 ) $ (1,789 ) $ — ____________________________ (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, 2 or 3. The fair values of our debt instruments are based on the amount of future cash flows associated with each instrument discounted using our borrowing rate. At July 5, 2015 , 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 July 5, 2015

Derivative Instruments (Tables)

Derivative Instruments (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015
Derivative Instruments and Hedges, Assets [Abstract]
Derivative Instruments Outstanding	The following derivative instruments were outstanding as of the end of each period ( in thousands ): July 5, 2015 September 28, 2014 Balance Sheet Location Fair Value Balance Sheet Location Fair Value Derivatives designated as hedging instruments: Interest rate swaps (Note 5) Accrued liabilities $ (2,341 ) Accrued liabilities $ (1,789 ) Interest rate swaps (Note 5) Other long-term liabilities $ (9,591 ) Other long-term liabilities $ — Total derivatives $ (11,932 ) $ (1,789 )
Gains Or Losses Recognized On Interest Rate Swap Derivative Instruments	The following is a summary of the OCI activity related to our interest rate swap derivative instruments ( in thousands ): Location of Loss in Income Quarter Year-to-date July 5, July 6, July 5, July 6, Gain (loss) recognized in OCI N/A $ (5,027 ) $ (14 ) $ (11,699 ) $ (99 ) Loss reclassified from accumulated OCI into net earnings Interest expense, net $ 461 $ 324 $ 1,556 $ 1,072 Amounts reclassified from accumulated OCI into interest expense represent payments made to the counterparties for the effective portions of the interest rate swaps. During the periods presented, our interest rate swaps had no hedge ineffectiveness.

Impairment, Disposition Of Pr31

Impairment, Disposition Of Property And Equipment, Restaurant Closing Costs And Restructuring (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]
Impairment Disposition Of Property And Equipment, Restaurant Closing Costs And Resturcturing	IMPAIRMENT AND OTHER CHARGES, NET Impairment and other charges, net in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of earnings is comprised of the following ( in thousands ): Quarter Year-to-date July 5, July 6, July 5, July 6, Accelerated depreciation $ 2,610 $ 152 $ 4,749 $ 1,302 Restaurant impairment charges 24 146 65 326 Losses on the disposition of property and equipment, net 228 491 580 1,042 Costs of closed restaurants (primarily lease obligations) and other 886 318 2,645 1,613 Restructuring costs 10 561 29 8,350 $ 3,758 $ 1,668 $ 8,068 $ 12,633 Accelerated depreciation — When a long-lived asset will be replaced or otherwise disposed of prior to the end of its estimated useful life, the useful life of the asset is adjusted based on the estimated disposal date and accelerated depreciation is recognized. Accelerated depreciation primarily relates to expenses at our Jack in the Box company restaurants for the replacement of technology and beverage equipment in 2015 and restaurant facility enhancement programs in 2014. In the third quarter of 2015, we recognized a $2.2 million charge related to the replacement of our beverage equipment at Jack in the Box restaurants. Impairment charges — 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 all periods were not material and primarily relate to charges for restaurants we intend to or have closed. Disposition of property and equipment — Disposal costs primarily relate to gains or losses recognized upon the sale of closed restaurant properties. In 2015, losses on the disposition of property and equipment includes a gain of $0.9 million from the resolution of one eminent domain matter involving a Jack in the Box restaurant. Costs of closed restaurants — Costs of closed restaurants primarily consist of future lease commitments, net of anticipated sublease rentals and expected ancillary costs related to our Jack in the Box restaurant operations. Accrued restaurant closing costs, included in accrued liabilities and other long-term liabilities, changed as follows in 2015 ( in thousands ): Balance as of September 28, 2014 $ 13,173 Adjustments (1) 2,141 Cash payments (4,760 ) Balance as of July 5, 2015 $ 10,554 ___________________________ (1) Adjustments relate primarily to revisions to certain sublease and cost assumptions. The estimates we make related to our future lease obligations, primarily the sublease income we anticipate, are subject to a high degree of judgment and may differ from actual sublease income due to changes in economic conditions, desirability of the sites and other factors. Restructuring costs — Since the beginning of 2012, we have been engaged in efforts to improve our cost structure and identify opportunities to reduce general and administrative expenses as well as improve profitability across both brands. The following is a summary of the costs incurred in connection with these activities ( in thousands ): Quarter Year-to-date July 5, July 6, July 5, July 6, Severance costs $ 10 $ 468 $ 29 $ 1,864 Other — 93 — 6,486 $ 10 $ 561 $ 29 $ 8,350 In 2014, other costs represents an impairment charge recognized in the second quarter of fiscal 2014 related to a restaurant software asset we no longer planned to place in service as we integrate certain systems across both of our brands. We may incur additional charges related to our restructuring activities; however, we are unable to make a reasonable estimate at this time.
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 ): Quarter Year-to-date July 5, July 6, July 5, July 6, Accelerated depreciation $ 2,610 $ 152 $ 4,749 $ 1,302 Restaurant impairment charges 24 146 65 326 Losses on the disposition of property and equipment, net 228 491 580 1,042 Costs of closed restaurants (primarily lease obligations) and other 886 318 2,645 1,613 Restructuring costs 10 561 29 8,350 $ 3,758 $ 1,668 $ 8,068 $ 12,633
Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs	Restructuring costs — Since the beginning of 2012, we have been engaged in efforts to improve our cost structure and identify opportunities to reduce general and administrative expenses as well as improve profitability across both brands. The following is a summary of the costs incurred in connection with these activities ( in thousands ): Quarter Year-to-date July 5, July 6, July 5, July 6, Severance costs $ 10 $ 468 $ 29 $ 1,864 Other — 93 — 6,486 $ 10 $ 561 $ 29 $ 8,350 In 2014, other costs represents an impairment charge recognized in the second quarter of fiscal 2014 related to a restaurant software asset we no longer planned to place in service as we integrate certain systems across both of our brands. We may incur additional charges related to our restructuring activities; however, we are unable to make a reasonable estimate at this time.
Contract Termination [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restaurant Closing Costs	Costs of closed restaurants — Costs of closed restaurants primarily consist of future lease commitments, net of anticipated sublease rentals and expected ancillary costs related to our Jack in the Box restaurant operations. Accrued restaurant closing costs, included in accrued liabilities and other long-term liabilities, changed as follows in 2015 ( in thousands ): Balance as of September 28, 2014 $ 13,173 Adjustments (1) 2,141 Cash payments (4,760 ) Balance as of July 5, 2015 $ 10,554 ___________________________ (1) Adjustments relate primarily to revisions to certain sublease and cost assumptions
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 changed as follows in 2015 ( in thousands ): Balance as of September 28, 2014 $ 5,737 Adjustments 3,853 Cash payments (5,225 ) Balance as of July 5, 2015 $ 4,365

Retirement Plans (Tables)

Retirement Plans (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015
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 ): Quarter Year-to-date July 5, July 6, July 5, July 6, Defined benefit pension plans: Service cost $ 1,908 $ 1,875 $ 6,360 $ 6,249 Interest cost 5,237 5,364 17,457 17,880 Expected return on plan assets (5,370 ) (5,652 ) (17,901 ) (18,840 ) Actuarial loss (1) 2,172 1,023 7,240 3,411 Amortization of unrecognized prior service costs (1) 62 62 207 207 Net periodic benefit cost $ 4,009 $ 2,672 $ 13,363 $ 8,907 Postretirement healthcare plans: Interest cost $ 276 $ 379 $ 920 $ 1,261 Actuarial loss (1) 42 125 140 417 Net periodic benefit cost $ 318 $ 504 $ 1,060 $ 1,678
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 2015 contributions are as follows ( in thousands ): Defined Benefit Pension Plans Postretirement Healthcare Plans Net year-to-date contributions $ 13,707 $ 652 Remaining estimated net contributions during fiscal 2015 $ 11,000 $ 600

Share-Based Compensation (Table

Share-Based Compensation (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015
Share-based Compensation [Abstract]
Schedule Of Share-Based Awards Granted	In fiscal 2015 , we granted the following shares related to our share-based compensation awards: Stock options 123,042 Performance share awards 40,594 Nonvested stock units 93,570
Components Of Share-Based Compensation Expense	The components of share-based compensation expense recognized in each period are as follows ( in thousands ): Quarter Year-to-date July 5, July 6, July 5, July 6, Stock options $ 585 $ 347 $ 2,139 $ 2,125 Performance share awards 1,335 891 3,407 3,386 Nonvested stock awards 31 46 127 264 Nonvested stock units 723 497 4,105 2,135 Deferred compensation for non-management directors — — 263 218 Total share-based compensation expense $ 2,674 $ 1,781 $ 10,041 $ 8,128

Average Shares Outstanding (Tab

Average Shares Outstanding (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015
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 ): Quarter Year-to-date July 5, July 6, July 5, July 6, Weighted-average shares outstanding – basic 37,106 39,692 37,980 41,320 Effect of potentially dilutive securities: Stock options 213 576 301 684 Nonvested stock awards and units 196 247 197 327 Performance share awards 146 272 152 274 Weighted-average shares outstanding – diluted 37,661 40,787 38,630 42,605 Excluded from diluted weighted-average shares outstanding: Antidilutive 99 178 85 145 Performance conditions not satisfied at the end of the period 23 31 17 29

Variable Interest Entities (Tab

Variable Interest Entities (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015
Variable Interest Entities ("VIEs") [Abstract]
Components Of FFE's Balance Sheet	The FFE’s balance sheet consisted of the following at the end of each period ( in thousands ): July 5, September 28, Cash $ 159 $ — Other current assets (1) 1,041 2,494 Other assets, net (1) 2,216 5,776 Total assets $ 3,416 $ 8,270 Current liabilities (2) $ 1,153 $ 2,833 Other long-term liabilities (2) 2,127 5,367 Retained earnings 136 70 Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 3,416 $ 8,270 ____________________________ (1) Consists primarily of amounts due from franchisees. (2) Consists primarily of the capital note contribution from Jack in the Box which is eliminated in consolidation.

Segment Reporting (Tables)

Segment Reporting (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Summarized Financial Information Of Reportable Segments	Quarter Year-to-date July 5, July 6, July 5, July 6, Revenues by segment: Jack in the Box restaurant operations $ 263,339 $ 259,737 $ 884,734 $ 869,650 Qdoba restaurant operations 96,167 88,755 301,515 269,794 Consolidated revenues $ 359,506 $ 348,492 $ 1,186,249 $ 1,139,444 Earnings from operations by segment: Jack in the Box restaurant operations $ 62,355 $ 54,413 $ 207,523 $ 184,333 Qdoba restaurant operations 13,805 9,641 37,265 26,354 Shared services and unallocated costs (25,582 ) (21,078 ) (84,936 ) (79,846 ) (Losses) gains on the sale of company-operated restaurants (183 ) 24 (4,353 ) 2,242 Consolidated earnings from operations 50,395 43,000 155,499 133,083 Interest expense, net 4,504 3,535 13,937 12,388 Consolidated earnings from continuing operations and before income taxes $ 45,891 $ 39,465 $ 141,562 $ 120,695 Total depreciation expense by segment: Jack in the Box restaurant operations $ 14,737 $ 15,110 $ 49,051 $ 51,379 Qdoba restaurant operations 3,864 3,893 13,179 13,029 Shared services and unallocated costs 1,573 1,688 5,445 5,612 Consolidated depreciation expense $ 20,174 $ 20,691 $ 67,675 $ 70,020
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 28, 2014 $ 100,597 $ 48,477 $ 149,074 Disposals — (32 ) (32 ) Balance at July 5, 2015 $ 100,597 $ 48,445 $ 149,042

Supplemental Consolidated Cas37

Supplemental Consolidated Cash Flow Information (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]
Additional Information Related To Cash Flows	Year-to-date July 5, July 6, Cash paid during the year for: Interest, net of amounts capitalized $ 13,433 $ 12,100 Income tax payments $ 18,685 $ 28,913 Non-cash transactions: Equipment capital lease obligations incurred $ 4,894 $ — Increase in dividends accrued at period end $ 121 $ 34 Change in obligation for purchases of property and equipment $ (53 ) $ 6,183

Supplemental Consolidated Bal38

Supplemental Consolidated Balance Sheet Information (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015
Supplemental Balance Sheet Disclosures [Line Items]
Schedule Of Supplemental Consolidated Balance Sheet Information	July 5, September 28, Prepaid expenses: Prepaid income taxes $ 17,720 $ 27,956 Prepaid rent 13,591 178 Other 9,156 8,180 $ 40,467 $ 36,314 Other assets, net: Company-owned life insurance policies $ 102,713 $ 100,753 Deferred tax assets 46,986 50,807 Other 85,184 85,738 $ 234,883 $ 237,298 Accrued liabilities: Payroll and related taxes $ 54,014 $ 54,905 Insurance 34,588 34,834 Advertising 14,147 21,452 Deferred rent income 15,418 2,432 Lease commitments related to closed or refranchised locations 10,188 10,258 Sales and property taxes 10,805 11,760 Other 33,324 27,985 $ 172,484 $ 163,626 Other long-term liabilities: Pension plans $ 136,047 $ 143,838 Straight-line rent accrual 46,955 48,835 Other 129,307 116,762 $ 312,309 $ 309,435

Basis Of Presentation (Details)

Basis Of Presentation (Details) - restaurant	Jul. 05, 2015	Apr. 13, 2014
Jack in the box brand restaurant operations [Member]
Nature Of Operations And Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Number of restaurants	2,248	2,252
Qdoba brand restaurant operations [Member]
Nature Of Operations And Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Number of restaurants	648	632
Entity Operated Units [Member] | Jack in the box brand restaurant operations [Member]
Nature Of Operations And Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Number of restaurants	413	455
Entity Operated Units [Member] | Qdoba brand restaurant operations [Member]
Nature Of Operations And Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Number of restaurants	314	308
Franchised Units [Member] | Jack in the box brand restaurant operations [Member]
Nature Of Operations And Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Number of restaurants	1,835	1,797
Franchised Units [Member] | Qdoba brand restaurant operations [Member]
Nature Of Operations And Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Number of restaurants	334	324

Basis Of Presentation Presentat

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

Discontinued Operations (Detail

Discontinued Operations (Details) - Type of Restructuring [Domain] $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015USD ($)Number of Distribution Centers$ / shares	Jul. 06, 2014USD ($)$ / shares	Jul. 05, 2015USD ($)Number of Distribution Centers$ / shares	Jul. 06, 2014USD ($)$ / shares
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal of Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax	$ (1,532)	$ (1,424)	$ (3,152)	$ (4,611)
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations and Disposal of Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Basic Share | $ / shares	$ (0.04)	$ (0.04)	$ (0.08)	$ (0.11)
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations and Disposal of Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Diluted Share | $ / shares	$ (0.04)	$ (0.03)	$ (0.08)	$ (0.11)
Asset Impairment Charges	$ 24	$ 146	$ 65	$ 326
2013 Qdoba Closures [Member]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Restructuring Reserve, Accrual Adjustment			3,853
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Future Lease Commitments			$ 3,900	4,200
Number of Lease agreements			4
Disposal group, Including Discontinued Operations, Brokerage Commissions			$ 200	500
Operating loss before income tax benefit	2,200	1,700	4,600	6,100
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period			5,737
Cash payments			(5,225)
Balance at end of period	4,365		4,365
Asset Impairment Charges				400
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Other Expense			300
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Other Expense			200	700
Discontinued Operation - Distribution Business [Member]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Future Lease Commitments			200	300
Operating loss before income tax benefit	$ 300	$ 600	$ 500	1,300
Number of Distribution Centers | Number of Distribution Centers	1		1
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period			$ 500
Balance at end of period	$ 300		300
Increase (Decrease) in Workers' Compensation Liabilities			$ 300	$ 900

Indebtedness (Details)

Indebtedness (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jul. 01, 2015	Jul. 01, 2015	Jul. 05, 2015	Jul. 06, 2014
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt			$ 300,000	$ 200,000
Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period One [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment, Principal			3,910
Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period Two [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment, Principal			5,860
Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period Three [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment, Principal			7,810
Credit Agreement Amendment [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Proceeds from Lines of Credit	$ 360,000
Credit Facility, Total Maximum Borrowing Capacity, Term and Revolver	1,200,000	$ 1,200,000
Line of credit facility, maximum borrowing capacity	900,000	900,000
Loans Payable to Bank	300,000	300,000
Letters of Credit Maximum Issuance Available	75,000	$ 75,000
Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt	$ 300,000
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term Line of Credit			350,000
Term Loan [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Loans Payable to Bank			300,000
Letter of Credit [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount			$ 22,100
Minimum [Member] | Credit Agreement Amendment [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate		1.25%
Maximum [Member] | Credit Agreement Amendment [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate		2.00%

Summary Of Refranchisings, Fr43

Summary Of Refranchisings, Franchisee Development And Acquisitions (Number Of Restaurants Sold And Developed By Franchisees And Related Gains And Fees Recognized) (Details) $ in Thousands		3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
		Jul. 05, 2015USD ($)restaurant	Jul. 06, 2014USD ($)restaurant	Jul. 05, 2015USD ($)restaurant	Jul. 06, 2014USD ($)restaurant
Summary Of Refranchisings, Franchisee Development And Acquisitions [Line Items]
Initial franchise fees		$ 130	$ 207	$ 1,113	$ 1,361
Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses	[1]	21	357	2,651	8,199
Net assets sold (primarily property and equipment)		(204)	(7)	(2,638)	(2,247)
Goodwill related to the sale of company-operated restaurants		0	(5)	(32)	(134)
Disposal Group Not Discontinued Operation Other Gain Loss On Disposal	[2]	0	1	(4,334)	(139)
Disposal Group, Not Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal		(183)	24	(4,353)	2,242
Proceeds From Extension Of Franchise And Lease Agreements		100	400	200	1,500
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		(183)	346		5,679
Total gain (loss) on the sale of company-operated restaurants [Member]
Summary Of Refranchisings, Franchisee Development And Acquisitions [Line Items]
Disposal Group, Not Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal		(183)	24	(4,353)	2,242
Loss on anticipated sale [Member]
Summary Of Refranchisings, Franchisee Development And Acquisitions [Line Items]
Disposal Group, Not Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal	[3]	$ 0	$ (322)	0	$ (3,437)
Significant Changes, Franchises Sold | restaurant					43
Jack in the box brand restaurant operations [Member]
Summary Of Refranchisings, Franchisee Development And Acquisitions [Line Items]
Goodwill related to the sale of company-operated restaurants				$ (32)
New restaurants opened by franchisees | restaurant		1	3	12	10
Significant Changes, Franchises Sold | restaurant		0	0	21	14
Significant Changes, Franchises Purchased During Period | restaurant				7	4
Qdoba brand restaurant operations [Member]
Summary Of Refranchisings, Franchisee Development And Acquisitions [Line Items]
Goodwill related to the sale of company-operated restaurants				$ 0
New restaurants opened by franchisees | restaurant		4	5	15	17
[1]	Amounts in 2015 and 2014 include additional proceeds recognized upon the extension of the underlying franchise and lease agreements related to restaurants sold in a prior year of $0.1 million and $0.4 million, respectively, in the quarter, and $0.2 million and $1.5 million, respectively, year-to-date.
[2]	Amounts in 2015 include lease commitment charges related to restaurants closed in connection with the sale of the related market, and charges for operating restaurant leases with lease commitments in excess of our sublease rental income.
[3]	Amounts in 2014 relate to losses on the expected sale of approximately 43 company-operated restaurants in three Jack in the Box markets sold in the fourth quarter of 2014 and the second quarter of 2015.

Summary Of Refranchisings, Fr44

Summary Of Refranchisings, Franchisee Development And Acquisitions (Purchase Price Allocations On Franchise Acquisitions) (Details) - restaurant	9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015	Jul. 06, 2014
Jack in the box brand restaurant operations [Member]
Summary Of Refranchisings, Franchisee Development And Acquisitions [Line Items]
Significant Changes, Franchises Purchased During Period	7	4

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 ($) $ in Thousands		Jul. 05, 2015	Sep. 28, 2014
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total liabilities at fair value		$ (49,114)	$ (37,391)
Interest Rate Swaps [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total liabilities at fair value	[1]	(11,932)	(1,789)
Non Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total liabilities at fair value	[2]	(37,182)	(35,602)
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	[3]	(37,182)	(35,602)
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	[1],[3]	0	0
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	[2],[3]	(37,182)	(35,602)
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total liabilities at fair value	[3]	(11,932)	(1,789)
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		(11,932)	(1,789)	[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	[2],[3]	0	0
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	[1]	0	0
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	[2]	$ 0	$ 0
[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, 2 or 3.

Derivative Instruments (Narrati

Derivative Instruments (Narrative) (Details)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015USD ($)	Jul. 06, 2014USD ($)	Jul. 05, 2015USD ($)	Jul. 06, 2014USD ($)	Jun. 15, 2015USD ($)agreements	Apr. 14, 2014USD ($)agreements	Aug. 31, 2010USD ($)agreements
Derivative [Line Items]
Interest rate derivatives held | agreements					11	9	2
Interest rate swaps hedge ineffectiveness	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Interest Rate Swaps [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, Notional Amount						$ 300,000,000	$ 100,000,000
October 2015 through October 2018 | Interest Rate Swaps [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, Notional Amount					$ 200,000,000
October 2018 through October 2022 | Interest Rate Swaps [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, Notional Amount					$ 500,000,000

Derivative Instruments (Derivat

Derivative Instruments (Derivative Instruments Outstanding) (Details) - Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] - Interest Rate Swaps [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jul. 05, 2015	Sep. 28, 2014
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Total liabilities at fair value	$ (11,932)	$ (1,789)
Accrued Liabilities [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Total liabilities at fair value	(2,341)	(1,789)
Other Noncurrent Liabilities [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Total liabilities at fair value	$ (9,591)	$ 0

Derivative Instruments (Gains O

Derivative Instruments (Gains Or Losses Recognized On Interest Rate Swap Derivative Instruments) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015	Jul. 06, 2014	Jul. 05, 2015	Jul. 06, 2014
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Gain (loss) recognized in OCI	$ (5,027)	$ (14)	$ (11,699)	$ (99)
Loss reclassified from accumulated OCI into income	461	324	1,556	1,072
Interest Rate Swaps [Member] | Derivatives Designated As Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Gain (loss) recognized in OCI	(5,027)	(14)	(11,699)	(99)
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	$ 461	$ 324	$ 1,556	$ 1,072

Impairment, Disposition Of Pr49

Impairment, Disposition Of Property And Equipment, Restaurant Closing Costs And Restructuring (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
		Jul. 05, 2015	Jul. 06, 2014	Jul. 05, 2015	Jul. 06, 2014
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
accelerated depreciation		$ 2,610	$ 152	$ 4,749	$ 1,302
Severance Costs		10	468	29	1,864
Asset Impairment Charges		24	146	65	326
Losses (gains) on the disposition of property and equipment, net				1,074	1,051
Business Exit Costs		886	318	2,645	1,613
Restructuring Charges		10	561	29	8,350
Impairment and other charges, net		3,758	1,668	8,068	12,633
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Other Restructuring Costs		0	93	0	6,486
Accelerated Depreciation Related to Beverage Equipment Upgrades [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
accelerated depreciation		2,200
Gains from eminent domain [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Losses (gains) on the disposition of property and equipment, net				(900)
Facility Closing [Member]
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period				13,173
Cash payments				(4,760)
Restructuring costs	[1]			2,141
Balance at end of period		10,554		10,554
Continuing Operations [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Losses (gains) on the disposition of property and equipment, net		$ 228	$ 491	$ 580	$ 1,042
[1]	(1) Adjustments relate primarily to revisions to certain sublease and cost assumptions

Income Taxes (Details)

Income Taxes (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015	Jul. 06, 2014	Jul. 05, 2015	Jul. 06, 2014	Apr. 12, 2015
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Gain (Loss) on Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedge Ineffectiveness	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Unrecognized Tax Benefits					$ 400,000
Effective tax rates	38.20%	33.80%	37.30%	35.90%

Retirement Plans (Components Of

Retirement Plans (Components Of Net Periodic Benefit Cost) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
		Jul. 05, 2015	Jul. 06, 2014	Jul. 05, 2015	Jul. 06, 2014
Defined Benefit Pension Plans [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost		$ 1,908	$ 1,875	$ 6,360	$ 6,249
Interest cost		5,237	5,364	17,457	17,880
Expected return on plan assets		(5,370)	(5,652)	(17,901)	(18,840)
Actuarial loss	[1]	2,172	1,023	7,240	3,411
Amortization of unrecognized prior service cost	[1]	62	62	207	207
Net periodic benefit cost		4,009	2,672	13,363	8,907
Postretirement Healthcare Plans [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Interest cost		276	379	920	1,261
Actuarial loss	[1]	42	125	140	417
Net periodic benefit cost		$ 318	$ 504	$ 1,060	$ 1,678
[1]	(1) Amounts were reclassified from accumulated OCI into net earnings as a component of selling, general and administrative expenses.

Retirement Plans (Schedule Of F

Retirement Plans (Schedule Of Future Cash Flows) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2015	Jul. 05, 2015
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		13,707
Postretirement Healthcare Plans [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Net year-to-date contributions		$ 652
Scenario, Forecast [Member] | Defined Benefit Pension Plans [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plans, Estimated Future Employer Contributions in Current Fiscal Year	$ 11,000
Scenario, Forecast [Member] | Postretirement Healthcare Plans [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plans, Estimated Future Employer Contributions in Current Fiscal Year	$ 600

Share-Based Compensation (Sched

Share-Based Compensation (Schedule Of Share-Based Awards Granted) (Details)	9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015shares
Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares	123,042
Performance-Vested Stock Awards [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares	40,594
Nonvested Stock Units [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares	93,570

Share-Based Compensation (Compo

Share-Based Compensation (Components Of Share-Based Compensation Expense) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015	Jul. 06, 2014	Jul. 05, 2015	Jul. 06, 2014
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based compensation expense	$ 2,674	$ 1,781	$ 10,041	$ 8,128
Deferred Compensation For Non Management Directors Member
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based compensation expense	0	0	263	218
Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based compensation expense	585	347	2,139	2,125
Performance-Vested Stock Awards [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based compensation expense	1,335	891	3,407	3,386
Nonvested Stock Awards [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based compensation expense	31	46	127	264
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based compensation expense	$ 723	$ 497	$ 4,105	$ 2,135

Stockholders' Equity (Narrative

Stockholders' Equity (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended			4 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015	Apr. 12, 2015	Jul. 06, 2014	Jan. 18, 2015	Jul. 05, 2015	Jul. 06, 2014	May. 07, 2015	Nov. 13, 2014	Jul. 31, 2014	Feb. 10, 2014
Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items]
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount							$ 100,000	$ 100,000	$ 100,000	$ 200,000
Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired					2,950
Repurchase of common stock, remaining authorized amount	$ 65,500				$ 65,500
Repurchases of common stock					$ 254,668	$ 284,258
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared	$ 0.30	$ 0.20	$ 0.20	$ 0.20	$ 0.70	$ 0.20
Declared Dividends					$ (26,700)
Fiscal 2014 Trades Settled Fiscal 2015 [Member]
Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items]
Repurchases of common stock					3,100
Fiscal 2013 Trades Settled Fiscal 2014 [Member]
Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items]
Repurchases of common stock						$ 7,300
Treasury Stock [Member]
Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items]
Repurchases of common stock					$ 251,600

Average Shares Outstanding (Rec

Average Shares Outstanding (Reconciliation Of Basic Weighted-Average Shares Outstanding To Diluted Weighted-Average Shares Outstanding) (Details) - shares shares in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015	Jul. 06, 2014	Jul. 05, 2015	Jul. 06, 2014
Average Shares Outstanding [Line Items]
Weighted-average shares outstanding - basic	37,106	39,692	37,980	41,320
Weighted-average shares outstanding - diluted	37,661	40,787	38,630	42,605
Excluded from diluted weighted-average shares outstanding, Antidilutive	99	178	85	145
Excluded from diluted weighted-average shares outstanding, Performance conditions not satisfied at the end of the period	23	31	17	29
Stock Options [Member]
Average Shares Outstanding [Line Items]
Effect of potentially dilutive securities	213	576	301	684
Nonvested Stock Awards And Units [Member]
Average Shares Outstanding [Line Items]
Effect of potentially dilutive securities	196	247	197	327
Performance-Vested Stock Awards [Member]
Average Shares Outstanding [Line Items]
Effect of potentially dilutive securities	146	272	152	274

Variable Interest Entities (Nar

Variable Interest Entities (Narrative) (Details) - Jul. 05, 2015 - Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Total
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Proceeds from Maturities, Prepayments and Calls of Other Investments	$ 3,900
Commitment to lending program from company through capital note	20,000
Long-term Line of Credit	0
F F E Facility Member
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Senior secured revolving securitization facility	$ 80,000

Variable Interest Entities (Com

Variable Interest Entities (Components Of FFE's Balance Sheet) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Jul. 05, 2015	Sep. 28, 2014
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Other current assets		$ 1,494	$ 597
Current liabilities		217,031	206,307
Other long-term liabilities		312,309	309,435
Retained earnings		1,303,892	1,244,897
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity		1,275,614	1,270,665
Jack In The Box Franchise Finance, LLC (FFE) [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Cash		159	0
Other current assets	[1]	1,041	2,494
Other assets, net	[1]	2,216	5,776
Total assets		3,416	8,270
Current liabilities	[2]	1,153	2,833
Other long-term liabilities	[2]	2,127	5,367
Retained earnings		136	70
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity		$ 3,416	$ 8,270
[1]	Consists primarily of amounts due from franchisees.
[2]	Consists primarily of the capital note contribution from Jack in the Box which is eliminated in consolidation.

Contingencies and Legal Matte59

Contingencies and Legal Matters (Details) - Jul. 05, 2015 $ in Millions	USD ($)
Legal Matters and Contingencies [Abstract]
Loss Contingency, Damages Sought, Value	$ 45
General liability and workers' comp estimated claims to be paid by insurance providers	$ 24.6
number of distribution center leases assigned to third parties	1
Guarantor obligations, maximum exposure, Undiscounted	$ 1.4

Segment Reporting (Summarized F

Segment Reporting (Summarized Financial Information Of Reportable Segments) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015	Jul. 06, 2014	Jul. 05, 2015	Jul. 06, 2014	Sep. 28, 2014
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Consolidated revenues	$ 359,506	$ 348,492	$ 1,186,249	$ 1,139,444
Consolidated earnings from operations	50,395	43,000	155,499	133,083
Interest Income (Expense), Net	4,504	3,535	13,937	12,388
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest	45,891	39,465	141,562	120,695
Disposal Group, Not Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal	(183)	24	(4,353)	2,242
Consolidated depreciation expense	20,174	20,691	67,675	70,020
Consolidated goodwill	149,042		149,042		$ 149,074
Goodwill, Written off Related to Sale of Business Unit	0	(5)	(32)	(134)
Qdoba brand restaurant operations [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Consolidated revenues	96,167	88,755	301,515	269,794
Consolidated earnings from operations	13,805	9,641	37,265	26,354
Consolidated depreciation expense	3,864	3,893	13,179	13,029
Consolidated goodwill	100,597		100,597		100,597
Goodwill, Written off Related to Sale of Business Unit			0
Jack in the box brand restaurant operations [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Consolidated revenues	263,339	259,737	884,734	869,650
Consolidated earnings from operations	62,355	54,413	207,523	184,333
Consolidated depreciation expense	14,737	15,110	49,051	51,379
Consolidated goodwill	48,445		48,445		$ 48,477
Goodwill, Written off Related to Sale of Business Unit			(32)
Shared services and unallocated costs [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Consolidated earnings from operations	(25,582)	(21,078)	(84,936)	(79,846)
Consolidated depreciation expense	1,573	1,688	5,445	5,612
Total gain (loss) on the sale of company-operated restaurants [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Disposal Group, Not Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal	(183)	24	$ (4,353)	2,242
Subtotal of gains (losses) on sale of company-operated restaurants [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Disposal Group, Not Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal	$ (183)	$ 346		$ 5,679

Supplemental Consolidated Cas61

Supplemental Consolidated Cash Flow Information (Additional Information Related To Cash Flows) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Jul. 05, 2015	Jul. 06, 2014
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]
Interest, net of amounts capitalized	$ 13,433	$ 12,100
Income tax payments	18,685	28,913
Capital Lease Obligations Incurred	4,894	0
Change in dividends payable	121	34
Capital Expenditures Incurred but Not yet Paid	$ (53)	$ 6,183

Supplemental Consolidated Bal62

Supplemental Consolidated Balance Sheet Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jul. 05, 2015	Sep. 28, 2014
Supplemental Balance Sheet Disclosures [Line Items]
Prepaid Taxes	$ 17,720	$ 27,956
Prepaid Rent	13,591	178
Other Prepaid Expense, Current	9,156	8,180
Prepaid Expense, Current	40,467	36,314
Accrued Advertising, Current	14,147	21,452
Deferred Rent Credit	15,418	2,432
Company-owned life insurance policies	102,713	100,753
Deferred tax asset	46,986	50,807
Other	85,184	85,738
Other assets, net	234,883	237,298
Payroll and related taxes	54,014	54,905
Sales and Excise Tax Payable, Current	10,805	11,760
Insurance	34,588	34,834
Lease commitments related to closed or refranchised locations	10,188	10,258
Other	33,324	27,985
Accrued liabilities	172,484	163,626
Pension plans	136,047	143,838
Deferred Rent Credit, Noncurrent	46,955	48,835
Other	129,307	116,762
Other Liabilities, Noncurrent	$ 312,309	$ 309,435

Subsequent Events (Details)

Subsequent Events (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	3 Months Ended				4 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2015	Jul. 05, 2015	Apr. 12, 2015	Jul. 06, 2014	Jan. 18, 2015	Jul. 05, 2015	Jul. 06, 2014	May. 07, 2015	Nov. 13, 2014	Jul. 31, 2014	Feb. 10, 2014
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared		$ 0.30	$ 0.20	$ 0.20	$ 0.20	$ 0.70	$ 0.20
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount								$ 100	$ 100	$ 100	$ 200
Subsequent Event [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared	$ 0.30