Common EBT-Related Issues and How to Resolve Them

While the EBT system is generally reliable, you may occasionally run into problems with your Bridge Card. From a lost card to a forgotten PIN, several common issues can prevent you from accessing your benefits. Knowing the right steps to take can help you resolve these situations quickly.

Lost or Stolen Bridge Card

If your card goes missing, your benefits are at risk until the account is frozen. You must act immediately to prevent unauthorized use. The Michigan EBT customer service number is available 24/7 to report a lost or stolen card and request a replacement.

• Call EBT Customer Service at 888-678-8914 and choose the option to report a lost or stolen card.

• Provide your date of birth, Social Security number, and ZIP code to verify your identity.

• Ask the agent to disable the old card and order a replacement. Note the confirmation number and expected delivery window, which is usually 7–10 business days.

• When the new card arrives, call the same number to activate it and select a new PIN.

• Review your transaction history. If you see unauthorized debits, notify your local MDHHS office within 30 days to request fraud-replacement benefits.

Forgotten or Locked PIN

Entering an incorrect PIN too many times will lock you out of your account, preventing purchases and ATM withdrawals. You can resolve this through the automated phone system for EBT customer service in Michigan, which will guide you through resetting your PIN to regain access to your funds.

• Call 888-678-8914 and follow the prompts for a “PIN change.”

• Confirm your identity using your card number, SSN, and date of birth.

• Choose a new four-digit PIN that is difficult for others to guess. Avoid using repeating or sequential numbers.

• Wait at least 15 minutes before testing the new PIN with a balance inquiry or a small purchase.

• If the account remains locked after the reset, call again to have an agent manually unlock it.

Benefits Did Not Load on the Expected Date

A zero balance on your deposit day can happen due to system glitches, eligibility changes, or missing paperwork. First, confirm your specific EBT deposit schedule for Michigan, as weekends and holidays can cause delays. If funds are still missing, check your account for required actions.

• Check your up-to-the-minute balance by logging into MiBridges or using a free app like Benny to track your SNAP and EBT Cash.

• Review recent notices in your MiBridges account for any requests for income proofs or recertification forms.

• Upload or deliver any missing documents to your local MDHHS office and call your caseworker to confirm receipt.

• If benefits are still missing after your documents are processed, ask an agent to open a “system escalation ticket” for the delayed deposit.

Card Declined or “Does Not Read” at Checkout

A declined card can result from a low balance, an incorrect PIN, or physical damage to the card. Before assuming the worst, you can find a full guide on how to check your EBT balance to confirm you have sufficient funds for your purchase.

• Ask the cashier to cancel the transaction and try again, carefully re-swiping the card and re-entering your PIN.

• If it still fails, check your balance on your last receipt or with a free app like Benny to ensure you have enough funds for eligible items.

• Inspect the card’s magnetic stripe for scratches or damage. If the card is damaged or expired, call 888-678-8914 for a free replacement.

• Try another checkout lane or a different store, as the retailer’s equipment may have connectivity issues.

• If all attempts fail, call customer service from the store to document the issue and request troubleshooting.

Manage Your EBT Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny

Benny is a free app that helps you track your EBT balance in real-time and get cash back on eligible purchases at popular stores like Target, Walmart, and Kroger. To get started, link your EBT card to the app. After you make a purchase, scan your receipt with Benny to receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.

This tool can help you track your funds between deposits, which is a different function than that of the EBT customer service for Michigan. Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.