EBT Guides
Feb 6, 2025
Understanding your EBT deposit schedule helps you manage your benefits effectively, ensuring you can plan your purchases and meet your needs without interruption.
In this article, you'll learn when to expect your EBT deposits and how to troubleshoot common reasons for delays.
Monthly EBT Deposit Schedule in California
In California, the EBT deposit schedule is determined by the last digit of your case number. This method ensures an even distribution of benefits throughout the month, preventing system overload and ensuring timely access for all recipients.
The distribution dates are as follows:
1st of the month: Case numbers ending in 1 or 2
2nd of the month: Case numbers ending in 3 or 4
3rd of the month: Case numbers ending in 5 or 6
4th of the month: Case numbers ending in 7 or 8
5th of the month: Case numbers ending in 9 or 0
How to Find Your Case Number
To find your case number, which determines your EBT deposit schedule, follow these steps:
Locate any official correspondence from the Department of Social Services, such as approval letters or benefit statements, where your case number is typically listed.
Log in to your account on the BenefitsCal portal and navigate to your account details to find your case number.
If you cannot find your case number through the above methods, call the California EBT hotline at 1-877-328-9677 for assistance.
Why Your EBT Deposit Might Be Late and What to Do
There are several commonly known reasons why your EBT deposit may be late.
Weekends and Holidays
Deposits scheduled on weekends or federal holidays may be delayed until the next business day. Plan your purchases accordingly and check your balance after the holiday or weekend.
Pending Eligibility or Recertification
Failing to complete eligibility reviews or recertification can delay benefits. Submit required documents on time and check for notifications from the state agency to avoid interruptions.
Incorrect Personal Information
Outdated or incorrect personal details can cause deposit issues. Verify your information and promptly update any changes with the appropriate authorities to avoid delays.
Statewide Processing Delays
Technical glitches or high processing volumes can lead to delays. Stay informed through official channels and be patient. For assistance, call the California EBT hotline at 1-877-328-9677.
How to Check Your EBT Deposit Status
There are several ways to check your EBT balance to confirm that your deposit has been made. For a comprehensive guide on all the options, check our guide on checking EBT balance. Here are three of the most convenient methods:
California Official SNAP Portal:
Visit the California SNAP website.
Navigate to the EBT section.
Check your balance under your account details.
Using Benny: Benny is a free app that allows you to check your EBT balance in real time and verify if the deposit has been made. In addition to tracking your benefits, with Benny you can also earn cashback when shopping for groceries or other purchases.
ATM Inquiry: You can check your EBT balance using an ATM. Choose an ATM with the Quest® logo, which signifies that it supports EBT transactions. Insert your EBT card, enter your PIN, and select the option to check your balance.
Do EBT Benefits Expire or Roll Over?
In California, unused EBT benefits roll over month to month but expire if not used within 365 days. To avoid losing benefits, make sure to use them within this timeframe. For the most current and accurate information on SNAP expiration rules, visit California's official SNAP website.
Get Cashback on EBT with Benny
With the Benny app, you can monitor your EBT balance and spending in real time while earning cashback on groceries at stores like Dollar General, Target, and Walmart. Simply 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.
