Common EBT-Related Issues and How to Resolve Them

While EBT is a reliable system, recipients may occasionally encounter problems. These can range from a lost card to a declined transaction. Knowing the right steps to take can resolve these situations quickly and with minimal stress. Here are some of the most common issues and their solutions.

Lost or Stolen Card

A lost or stolen card is alarming because your benefits are at risk. The best way to get customer service for EBT in Montana is by calling the help desk directly to freeze the card and prevent unauthorized use.

• Follow the prompts to report the card as lost or stolen, which automatically stops further transactions.

• Ask the representative to mail a replacement card and confirm the mailing address on file.

• When the new card arrives, activate it and choose a new four-digit PIN before first use.

• Regularly check your transaction history for any signs of fraud while you wait for the replacement to arrive.

Forgotten or Locked PIN

Forgetting your PIN or having your card locked after too many wrong attempts can be frustrating. The EBT customer service in Montana can help you reset your PIN or unlock your account without needing a new card.

• Call the automated phone system and select the “PIN change” option.

• Verify your identity using your card number and personal information like your SSN or date of birth.

• Choose a new four-digit PIN that is difficult to guess. Avoid sequences like 1234 or your birth year.

• If your card is locked, ask the customer service representative to unlock the account during the call.

Card Declines at Checkout

A declined transaction can happen for several reasons. Before looking for the Montana EBT customer service number, there are a few things you can check yourself to identify the source of the problem.

• First, check your EBT balance to confirm you have enough funds. You can find a full guide on checking your balance or look at your last receipt.

• You can also use a free app like Benny to track your SNAP and EBT Cash balance in real-time.

• Confirm the store accepts EBT and that you are only purchasing eligible food items.

• Inspect the card's magnetic stripe and chip for any physical damage that might cause a read error.

• Ask the cashier to try again or use a different register, as the issue could be a temporary network glitch.

Monthly Benefit Not Deposited

If your monthly benefits haven't appeared on your card, it could be due to a schedule change or a problem with your case. It's a good idea to verify your deposit date and case status before assuming the funds are lost.

• Check the Montana SNAP deposit schedule, as holidays or weekends can sometimes shift payment dates.

• Review recent letters from DPHHS to see if any missing paperwork is holding up your benefits.

• Confirm your balance by phone or online to rule out a display error at a store terminal.

• If funds are still missing, contact your local Office of Public Assistance to check your case status.

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, Kroger, and others.

To get started, link your EBT card to the app. After you make a purchase, scan your receipt with Benny and receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items. This is a simple way to manage your funds without needing to find the Montana EBT customer service number for a balance check.

Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.