EBT Guides
Mar 19, 2025
Regularly checking your EBT balance helps you manage your benefits effectively. It ensures you have enough funds for your needs and helps you avoid declined transactions. Additionally, it allows you to spot any unauthorized charges promptly.
In this article, we’ll cover five practical ways to check your EBT balance and walk through how to troubleshoot common card issues—including resetting your PIN and identifying and reporting incorrect charges.
5 Ways to Check Your EBT Balance
There are several ways to check your EBT balance, each with its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of convenience and accessibility.
Use the Benny App
Benny is a free mobile app that allows you to check your EBT balance and transactions in real time by linking your EBT card to the Benny app. With Benny, you can also get cashback on groceries and other purchases, including at stores like Dollar Tree, Target, Walmart, and many others.
Download the Benny app. It's completely free with no hidden fees.
Call the New York EBT Hotline
EBT cardholders can check their balance by calling the New York EBT customer service number at 1-888-328-6399. After dialing, select your preferred language, then enter your EBT card number when prompted. You will hear your current balance details. Alternatively, you can use the number printed on the back of your card for the same service.
Use New York's Official SNAP Website
To check your EBT balance online in New York, follow these steps:
Visit the New York EBT website.
Click on the "Cardholder Login" button.
Enter your User ID and Password. If you do not have an account, click on "Register" to create one.
Once logged in, navigate to the balance check section to view your current EBT balance.
Check at an ATM
EBT cardholders can check their balance at any ATM displaying the Quest® logo. Insert your EBT card, enter your PIN, and select the option to check your balance.
Be aware that some ATMs may charge a fee for balance inquiries, so it's best to use ATMs that offer free services for EBT cardholders.
Review Store Receipts
After making a purchase, EBT users can check their balance by looking at the bottom of their receipt, where the remaining EBT Food and EBT Cash balances are typically printed. This quick and easy method helps you keep track of your funds without any extra steps.
Know Your EBT Benefits Schedule
Understanding when your EBT benefits are loaded onto your card helps you plan your shopping trips and ensures you have access to funds when you need them most.
When Funds Are Typically Loaded
In New York, EBT funds are typically loaded based on the last digit of the recipient's case number. This staggered system ensures a smooth distribution of benefits throughout the month. Knowing your deposit schedule helps you manage your balance and budget effectively. Check out the monthly EBT deposit schedule to know when to expect your benefits every month.
If your deposit date falls on a weekend or holiday, benefits are usually loaded the previous business day. Occasionally, delays due to system maintenance or statewide issues can occur. Notifications about unplanned delays will be posted on the state’s EBT website or shared via customer service. If your benefits are not deposited on time, call the EBT hotline at 1-888-328-6399.
Do Unused Benefits Roll Over?
Yes, unused EBT benefits in New York roll over to the next month and accumulate. For more details, visit the ConnectEBT website.
How to Fix Common Issues with EBT Cards
Occasionally, your EBT card may encounter issues even when everything appears to be in order. Here are the solutions to address the most frequent problems.
Report a Lost or Stolen Card
If your EBT card is lost or stolen, take immediate action to secure your benefits.
Contact Customer Service Immediately: Call the EBT hotline at 1-888-328-6399 to report your card lost or stolen. This will freeze your account to prevent unauthorized use.
Request a Replacement Card: While on the call, request a new EBT card. It will be mailed to your registered address within 7-10 business days.
File a Report if Required: In some cases, you may need to file a report with your local SNAP office or law enforcement. Check the ConnectEBT website for specific instructions.
Spot and Report a Wrong Charge
If you notice unauthorized or incorrect charges on your EBT account, take immediate action to protect your benefits.
Review Your Transaction History Regularly: Regularly check your transaction history to spot any discrepancies as soon as they occur. This proactive approach helps you catch issues early.
Contact Customer Service: Call the New York EBT hotline at 1-888-328-6399 to report any unauthorized or incorrect charges. Provide details of the transaction in question to facilitate a prompt investigation.
Follow Up as Necessary: After reporting the issue, follow up with customer service to ensure the matter is resolved. Keep records of your communications and any reference numbers provided.
Bonus Tip: Use the Benny app to monitor your transactions in real-time. This can help you quickly spot any incorrect charges and take immediate action.
Fix Card Declines With Balance Available
If your EBT card is declined despite having a sufficient balance, consider these possible issues:
Incorrect PIN Entry: Double-check that you are entering the correct PIN. Multiple incorrect attempts can temporarily lock your card.
Expired Card: Verify the expiration date on your EBT card. If it has expired, contact customer service at 1-888-328-6399 to request a replacement.
System Outages: Sometimes, system outages can affect card transactions. Check the ConnectEBT website or call customer service to confirm if there are any ongoing issues.
Reset PIN or Unlock Account
If you need to reset your PIN or unlock your EBT account, follow these steps:
Call the New York Hotline: Dial 1-888-328-6399 and select the option for PIN reset. Follow the automated prompts to choose a new PIN.
Use the New York SNAP Portal: Log in to the ConnectEBT website. Once logged in, navigate to the section for PIN reset. Follow the on-screen instructions to set a new PIN.
Remember to choose a secure PIN and avoid sharing it with others to protect your benefits.
Download Benny to Stay on Top of Your EBT Balance
With the Benny app, you can monitor your EBT balance and spending in real time, and earn cash back on groceries at stores like Target, Walmart, and more. Just connect your EBT card and activate offers to start saving.
Download Benny to track your EBT spending and access cash back where you already shop.
