Massachusetts EBT Deposit Schedule for 2025

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Understanding your SNAP payment schedule in Massachusetts is a big help for managing your monthly budget. Knowing when to expect your benefits lets you plan your shopping trips and avoid running low on essentials.

In this guide, you'll learn about the EBT deposit dates and find solutions for what to do if your payment is late.

Monthly EBT Deposit Schedule in Massachusetts

In Massachusetts, your SNAP benefits are deposited monthly based on the last digit of your Social Security Number. If you don't have an SSN, the state uses the last digit of a DTA-assigned ID number to determine your EBT deposit dates.

Your specific payment day is determined as follows:

Last digit is 0: 1st of the month
Last digit is 1: 2nd of the month
Last digit is 2: 4th of the month
Last digit is 3: 5th of the month
Last digit is 4: 7th of the month
Last digit is 5: 8th of the month
Last digit is 6: 10th of the month
Last digit is 7: 11th of the month
Last digit is 8: 13th of the month
Last digit is 9: 14th of the month

If your payment day falls on a Sunday or a state holiday, your benefits will be available on the preceding business day. This consistent SNAP payment schedule helps with monthly planning.

For those receiving cash assistance like TAFDC or EAEDC, payments are split into two deposits. The first follows the same SNAP payment dates, and the second arrives 15 days later.

How To Find Your Case Number

If you use a DTA-assigned ID instead of an SSN for your benefits, this number is referred to as your Client ID. The last digit of this ID determines your EBT payment schedule. You can locate your Client ID in a few ways.

Check any recent notices or your approval letter from the Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA).
Log into your DTA Connect account to view your case details.

If you still cannot find it, call the DTA Assistance Line at 877-382-2363. You can also get help in person at a local office, which you can find using the DTA Office Locator.

How to Check Your EBT Deposit Status in Massachusetts

You can check your EBT balance in a few different ways to confirm your deposit has arrived. For a complete list of options, see our guide on how to check your EBT balance in Massachusetts. The three most convenient methods to check your balance after your scheduled SNAP deposit dates are listed below.

The Benny app shows your real-time food and cash balance. It also provides cash-back rewards on eligible EBT purchases at many stores. To start, download the app, create an account with your phone or email, and link your EBT card.
The official DTA Connect website lets you view your current SNAP and cash balances from any device. After you log in and connect your case, your EBT card balance appears on the home page. This is a reliable way to track your benefits.
You can call the 24/7 EBT Customer Service line at 800-997-2555. After you enter your card number, an automated system will state your current food and cash balances. This method offers a quick balance update without internet access.

Download Benny to save on groceries

Get coupons from your favorite brands
Earn 1-3% cash back on SNAP and track your EBT balance
Get 1% cash back with the Benny Visa card and build your credit score

Download the app

Why Your EBT Deposit Might Be Late and What to Do

Several factors can cause a delay in your benefits, pushing payments past their expected EBT deposit dates.

Administrative or Eligibility Snags

Paperwork issues are a common reason for delayed payments. If you have a missing Interim Report, an incomplete recertification, or overdue verification documents, the DTA may hold your benefits. Changes in your income or household size that are still under review can also affect your Massachusetts EBT payment schedule until your case is fully updated and approved.

System or Technical Issues

Sometimes the problem is not with your case but with the system itself. A statewide technical glitch or a processing error at the DTA can temporarily prevent benefits from being loaded onto cards. These issues can disrupt the regular SNAP payment schedule, and payments will resume once the fault is identified and fixed.

Heavy Caseloads and Processing Backlogs

High demand for benefits or staffing shortages can create significant backlogs for the DTA. These administrative bottlenecks slow down case processing for everyone. As a result, your payment might arrive after the planned SNAP payment dates while the agency works through the surge in applications and case updates.

Fraud-Related Holds or Benefit Theft

If the DTA suspects fraudulent activity like card skimming, your account may be frozen as a precaution. This hold prevents your benefits from being deposited until an investigation is complete. While this protects your funds from theft, it means your deposit will be delayed past the usual SNAP deposit dates until the issue is resolved.

Do EBT Benefits Expire or Roll Over?

In Massachusetts, you are not required to spend your full benefit amount each month. Unused SNAP and cash assistance funds automatically carry over on your EBT card. These unaccessed EBT benefits remain available for future use, though different rules apply to each program.

Your SNAP benefits will be available as long as you use your card at least once every 274 days. Any transaction, like a purchase or balance check, resets this clock. If there is no activity for 274 days, the DTA will permanently remove any benefits older than that.

Cash assistance funds, such as TAFDC or EAEDC, operate on a shorter timeline. These benefits are removed from your card if your account is not accessed at all within 90 days of a deposit. The DTA will send a notice before this happens.

It is possible to have expunged cash benefits restored. You must contact the DTA within six months and demonstrate a serious barrier, like a hospitalization, prevented you from using your card. After six months, the funds cannot be recovered.

Get 1-3% cash back on groceries and track your EBT balance

Download the app

What to Do if Your EBT Balance Runs Out Early

Seeing a low EBT balance when the month is far from over can be a stressful experience. It’s a challenging situation, but it doesn't have to be a hopeless one. Fortunately, there are several options you can tap into if you're facing a shortage before your next deposit.

Get an Emergency SNAP Deposit

You may qualify for an emergency SNAP deposit if your circumstances have recently changed. To be eligible, you must meet one of the following criteria:

Your household’s gross monthly income is under $150 and you have $100 or less in cash.
Your shelter costs are higher than your current gross income and cash combined.
You are a migrant or seasonal farmworker household with $100 or less in cash.

If you qualify, start a new “Apply for SNAP” request on the DTA Connect app or at DTAConnect.com. DTA will convert this to an expedited reopening. You will need to upload proof of identity and documentation showing you meet the criteria, then complete an interview.

DTA must issue the benefits within seven days. If you need a card right away, you can visit a local DTA office in Massachusetts and request an emergency EBT card. This can be a huge help when your regular SNAP payment schedule feels too far away.

Ask DTA to Recalculate Your Benefit Mid-Cycle

If your income has dropped or your expenses have gone up, you can ask the DTA to recalculate your benefits. This can result in a supplemental payment before your next scheduled deposit. The EBT payment schedule is fixed, but your benefit amount can change.

To report a change, use the DTA Connect app and select “Report a Change.” You can update information about your rent, utilities, childcare, medical bills, or a decrease in earnings. You will need to upload proof, such as a new lease or a termination letter.

While you are only required to report when your income goes above the limit, reporting these other changes can trigger a supplemental SNAP allotment. Once approved by a caseworker, these extra funds are often issued overnight.

Line Up Same-Day Groceries

While waiting for your benefits to be adjusted or for your next deposit based on the SNAP deposit dates, you can get immediate food assistance. This can help you secure groceries for your family today.

Call the statewide Project Bread FoodSource Hotline at 1-800-645-8333 or use its online Help Directory. Ask the counselors for “emergency food” listings near you. They can point you to several resources, including:

Local pantries offering drive-through boxes
Senior “brown-bag” produce programs
Locations with evening hours
Summer Eats meal sites for children

Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny

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

Download Benny to take control of your spend and get more from your EBT benefits. This can help your funds last longer between your regular SNAP payment dates.

Frequently Asked Questions

SHARE

Understanding your SNAP payment schedule in Massachusetts is a big help for managing your monthly budget. Knowing when to expect your benefits lets you plan your shopping trips and avoid running low on essentials.

In this guide, you'll learn about the EBT deposit dates and find solutions for what to do if your payment is late.

Monthly EBT Deposit Schedule in Massachusetts

In Massachusetts, your SNAP benefits are deposited monthly based on the last digit of your Social Security Number. If you don't have an SSN, the state uses the last digit of a DTA-assigned ID number to determine your EBT deposit dates.

Your specific payment day is determined as follows:

Last digit is 0: 1st of the month
Last digit is 1: 2nd of the month
Last digit is 2: 4th of the month
Last digit is 3: 5th of the month
Last digit is 4: 7th of the month
Last digit is 5: 8th of the month
Last digit is 6: 10th of the month
Last digit is 7: 11th of the month
Last digit is 8: 13th of the month
Last digit is 9: 14th of the month

If your payment day falls on a Sunday or a state holiday, your benefits will be available on the preceding business day. This consistent SNAP payment schedule helps with monthly planning.

For those receiving cash assistance like TAFDC or EAEDC, payments are split into two deposits. The first follows the same SNAP payment dates, and the second arrives 15 days later.

How To Find Your Case Number

If you use a DTA-assigned ID instead of an SSN for your benefits, this number is referred to as your Client ID. The last digit of this ID determines your EBT payment schedule. You can locate your Client ID in a few ways.

Check any recent notices or your approval letter from the Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA).
Log into your DTA Connect account to view your case details.

If you still cannot find it, call the DTA Assistance Line at 877-382-2363. You can also get help in person at a local office, which you can find using the DTA Office Locator.

How to Check Your EBT Deposit Status in Massachusetts

You can check your EBT balance in a few different ways to confirm your deposit has arrived. For a complete list of options, see our guide on how to check your EBT balance in Massachusetts. The three most convenient methods to check your balance after your scheduled SNAP deposit dates are listed below.

The Benny app shows your real-time food and cash balance. It also provides cash-back rewards on eligible EBT purchases at many stores. To start, download the app, create an account with your phone or email, and link your EBT card.
The official DTA Connect website lets you view your current SNAP and cash balances from any device. After you log in and connect your case, your EBT card balance appears on the home page. This is a reliable way to track your benefits.
You can call the 24/7 EBT Customer Service line at 800-997-2555. After you enter your card number, an automated system will state your current food and cash balances. This method offers a quick balance update without internet access.

Download Benny to save on groceries

Get coupons from your favorite brands
Earn 1-3% cash back on SNAP and track your EBT balance
Get 1% cash back with the Benny Visa card and build your credit score

Download the app

Why Your EBT Deposit Might Be Late and What to Do

Several factors can cause a delay in your benefits, pushing payments past their expected EBT deposit dates.

Administrative or Eligibility Snags

Paperwork issues are a common reason for delayed payments. If you have a missing Interim Report, an incomplete recertification, or overdue verification documents, the DTA may hold your benefits. Changes in your income or household size that are still under review can also affect your Massachusetts EBT payment schedule until your case is fully updated and approved.

System or Technical Issues

Sometimes the problem is not with your case but with the system itself. A statewide technical glitch or a processing error at the DTA can temporarily prevent benefits from being loaded onto cards. These issues can disrupt the regular SNAP payment schedule, and payments will resume once the fault is identified and fixed.

Heavy Caseloads and Processing Backlogs

High demand for benefits or staffing shortages can create significant backlogs for the DTA. These administrative bottlenecks slow down case processing for everyone. As a result, your payment might arrive after the planned SNAP payment dates while the agency works through the surge in applications and case updates.

Fraud-Related Holds or Benefit Theft

If the DTA suspects fraudulent activity like card skimming, your account may be frozen as a precaution. This hold prevents your benefits from being deposited until an investigation is complete. While this protects your funds from theft, it means your deposit will be delayed past the usual SNAP deposit dates until the issue is resolved.

Do EBT Benefits Expire or Roll Over?

In Massachusetts, you are not required to spend your full benefit amount each month. Unused SNAP and cash assistance funds automatically carry over on your EBT card. These unaccessed EBT benefits remain available for future use, though different rules apply to each program.

Your SNAP benefits will be available as long as you use your card at least once every 274 days. Any transaction, like a purchase or balance check, resets this clock. If there is no activity for 274 days, the DTA will permanently remove any benefits older than that.

Cash assistance funds, such as TAFDC or EAEDC, operate on a shorter timeline. These benefits are removed from your card if your account is not accessed at all within 90 days of a deposit. The DTA will send a notice before this happens.

It is possible to have expunged cash benefits restored. You must contact the DTA within six months and demonstrate a serious barrier, like a hospitalization, prevented you from using your card. After six months, the funds cannot be recovered.

Get 1-3% cash back on groceries and track your EBT balance

Download the app

What to Do if Your EBT Balance Runs Out Early

Seeing a low EBT balance when the month is far from over can be a stressful experience. It’s a challenging situation, but it doesn't have to be a hopeless one. Fortunately, there are several options you can tap into if you're facing a shortage before your next deposit.

Get an Emergency SNAP Deposit

You may qualify for an emergency SNAP deposit if your circumstances have recently changed. To be eligible, you must meet one of the following criteria:

Your household’s gross monthly income is under $150 and you have $100 or less in cash.
Your shelter costs are higher than your current gross income and cash combined.
You are a migrant or seasonal farmworker household with $100 or less in cash.

If you qualify, start a new “Apply for SNAP” request on the DTA Connect app or at DTAConnect.com. DTA will convert this to an expedited reopening. You will need to upload proof of identity and documentation showing you meet the criteria, then complete an interview.

DTA must issue the benefits within seven days. If you need a card right away, you can visit a local DTA office in Massachusetts and request an emergency EBT card. This can be a huge help when your regular SNAP payment schedule feels too far away.

Ask DTA to Recalculate Your Benefit Mid-Cycle

If your income has dropped or your expenses have gone up, you can ask the DTA to recalculate your benefits. This can result in a supplemental payment before your next scheduled deposit. The EBT payment schedule is fixed, but your benefit amount can change.

To report a change, use the DTA Connect app and select “Report a Change.” You can update information about your rent, utilities, childcare, medical bills, or a decrease in earnings. You will need to upload proof, such as a new lease or a termination letter.

While you are only required to report when your income goes above the limit, reporting these other changes can trigger a supplemental SNAP allotment. Once approved by a caseworker, these extra funds are often issued overnight.

Line Up Same-Day Groceries

While waiting for your benefits to be adjusted or for your next deposit based on the SNAP deposit dates, you can get immediate food assistance. This can help you secure groceries for your family today.

Call the statewide Project Bread FoodSource Hotline at 1-800-645-8333 or use its online Help Directory. Ask the counselors for “emergency food” listings near you. They can point you to several resources, including:

Local pantries offering drive-through boxes
Senior “brown-bag” produce programs
Locations with evening hours
Summer Eats meal sites for children

Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny

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

Download Benny to take control of your spend and get more from your EBT benefits. This can help your funds last longer between your regular SNAP payment dates.

Frequently Asked Questions

SHARE

Understanding your SNAP payment schedule in Massachusetts is a big help for managing your monthly budget. Knowing when to expect your benefits lets you plan your shopping trips and avoid running low on essentials.

In this guide, you'll learn about the EBT deposit dates and find solutions for what to do if your payment is late.

Monthly EBT Deposit Schedule in Massachusetts

In Massachusetts, your SNAP benefits are deposited monthly based on the last digit of your Social Security Number. If you don't have an SSN, the state uses the last digit of a DTA-assigned ID number to determine your EBT deposit dates.

Your specific payment day is determined as follows:

Last digit is 0: 1st of the month
Last digit is 1: 2nd of the month
Last digit is 2: 4th of the month
Last digit is 3: 5th of the month
Last digit is 4: 7th of the month
Last digit is 5: 8th of the month
Last digit is 6: 10th of the month
Last digit is 7: 11th of the month
Last digit is 8: 13th of the month
Last digit is 9: 14th of the month

If your payment day falls on a Sunday or a state holiday, your benefits will be available on the preceding business day. This consistent SNAP payment schedule helps with monthly planning.

For those receiving cash assistance like TAFDC or EAEDC, payments are split into two deposits. The first follows the same SNAP payment dates, and the second arrives 15 days later.

How To Find Your Case Number

If you use a DTA-assigned ID instead of an SSN for your benefits, this number is referred to as your Client ID. The last digit of this ID determines your EBT payment schedule. You can locate your Client ID in a few ways.

Check any recent notices or your approval letter from the Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA).
Log into your DTA Connect account to view your case details.

If you still cannot find it, call the DTA Assistance Line at 877-382-2363. You can also get help in person at a local office, which you can find using the DTA Office Locator.

How to Check Your EBT Deposit Status in Massachusetts

You can check your EBT balance in a few different ways to confirm your deposit has arrived. For a complete list of options, see our guide on how to check your EBT balance in Massachusetts. The three most convenient methods to check your balance after your scheduled SNAP deposit dates are listed below.

The Benny app shows your real-time food and cash balance. It also provides cash-back rewards on eligible EBT purchases at many stores. To start, download the app, create an account with your phone or email, and link your EBT card.
The official DTA Connect website lets you view your current SNAP and cash balances from any device. After you log in and connect your case, your EBT card balance appears on the home page. This is a reliable way to track your benefits.
You can call the 24/7 EBT Customer Service line at 800-997-2555. After you enter your card number, an automated system will state your current food and cash balances. This method offers a quick balance update without internet access.

Download Benny to save on groceries

Get coupons from your favorite brands
Earn 1-3% cash back on SNAP and track your EBT balance
Get 1% cash back with the Benny Visa card and build your credit score

Download the app

Why Your EBT Deposit Might Be Late and What to Do

Several factors can cause a delay in your benefits, pushing payments past their expected EBT deposit dates.

Administrative or Eligibility Snags

Paperwork issues are a common reason for delayed payments. If you have a missing Interim Report, an incomplete recertification, or overdue verification documents, the DTA may hold your benefits. Changes in your income or household size that are still under review can also affect your Massachusetts EBT payment schedule until your case is fully updated and approved.

System or Technical Issues

Sometimes the problem is not with your case but with the system itself. A statewide technical glitch or a processing error at the DTA can temporarily prevent benefits from being loaded onto cards. These issues can disrupt the regular SNAP payment schedule, and payments will resume once the fault is identified and fixed.

Heavy Caseloads and Processing Backlogs

High demand for benefits or staffing shortages can create significant backlogs for the DTA. These administrative bottlenecks slow down case processing for everyone. As a result, your payment might arrive after the planned SNAP payment dates while the agency works through the surge in applications and case updates.

Fraud-Related Holds or Benefit Theft

If the DTA suspects fraudulent activity like card skimming, your account may be frozen as a precaution. This hold prevents your benefits from being deposited until an investigation is complete. While this protects your funds from theft, it means your deposit will be delayed past the usual SNAP deposit dates until the issue is resolved.

Do EBT Benefits Expire or Roll Over?

In Massachusetts, you are not required to spend your full benefit amount each month. Unused SNAP and cash assistance funds automatically carry over on your EBT card. These unaccessed EBT benefits remain available for future use, though different rules apply to each program.

Your SNAP benefits will be available as long as you use your card at least once every 274 days. Any transaction, like a purchase or balance check, resets this clock. If there is no activity for 274 days, the DTA will permanently remove any benefits older than that.

Cash assistance funds, such as TAFDC or EAEDC, operate on a shorter timeline. These benefits are removed from your card if your account is not accessed at all within 90 days of a deposit. The DTA will send a notice before this happens.

It is possible to have expunged cash benefits restored. You must contact the DTA within six months and demonstrate a serious barrier, like a hospitalization, prevented you from using your card. After six months, the funds cannot be recovered.

Get 1-3% cash back on groceries and track your EBT balance

Download the app

What to Do if Your EBT Balance Runs Out Early

Seeing a low EBT balance when the month is far from over can be a stressful experience. It’s a challenging situation, but it doesn't have to be a hopeless one. Fortunately, there are several options you can tap into if you're facing a shortage before your next deposit.

Get an Emergency SNAP Deposit

You may qualify for an emergency SNAP deposit if your circumstances have recently changed. To be eligible, you must meet one of the following criteria:

Your household’s gross monthly income is under $150 and you have $100 or less in cash.
Your shelter costs are higher than your current gross income and cash combined.
You are a migrant or seasonal farmworker household with $100 or less in cash.

If you qualify, start a new “Apply for SNAP” request on the DTA Connect app or at DTAConnect.com. DTA will convert this to an expedited reopening. You will need to upload proof of identity and documentation showing you meet the criteria, then complete an interview.

DTA must issue the benefits within seven days. If you need a card right away, you can visit a local DTA office in Massachusetts and request an emergency EBT card. This can be a huge help when your regular SNAP payment schedule feels too far away.

Ask DTA to Recalculate Your Benefit Mid-Cycle

If your income has dropped or your expenses have gone up, you can ask the DTA to recalculate your benefits. This can result in a supplemental payment before your next scheduled deposit. The EBT payment schedule is fixed, but your benefit amount can change.

To report a change, use the DTA Connect app and select “Report a Change.” You can update information about your rent, utilities, childcare, medical bills, or a decrease in earnings. You will need to upload proof, such as a new lease or a termination letter.

While you are only required to report when your income goes above the limit, reporting these other changes can trigger a supplemental SNAP allotment. Once approved by a caseworker, these extra funds are often issued overnight.

Line Up Same-Day Groceries

While waiting for your benefits to be adjusted or for your next deposit based on the SNAP deposit dates, you can get immediate food assistance. This can help you secure groceries for your family today.

Call the statewide Project Bread FoodSource Hotline at 1-800-645-8333 or use its online Help Directory. Ask the counselors for “emergency food” listings near you. They can point you to several resources, including:

Local pantries offering drive-through boxes
Senior “brown-bag” produce programs
Locations with evening hours
Summer Eats meal sites for children

Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny

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

Download Benny to take control of your spend and get more from your EBT benefits. This can help your funds last longer between your regular SNAP payment dates.

Frequently Asked Questions

SHARE

Understanding your SNAP payment schedule in Massachusetts is a big help for managing your monthly budget. Knowing when to expect your benefits lets you plan your shopping trips and avoid running low on essentials.

In this guide, you'll learn about the EBT deposit dates and find solutions for what to do if your payment is late.

Monthly EBT Deposit Schedule in Massachusetts

In Massachusetts, your SNAP benefits are deposited monthly based on the last digit of your Social Security Number. If you don't have an SSN, the state uses the last digit of a DTA-assigned ID number to determine your EBT deposit dates.

Your specific payment day is determined as follows:

Last digit is 0: 1st of the month
Last digit is 1: 2nd of the month
Last digit is 2: 4th of the month
Last digit is 3: 5th of the month
Last digit is 4: 7th of the month
Last digit is 5: 8th of the month
Last digit is 6: 10th of the month
Last digit is 7: 11th of the month
Last digit is 8: 13th of the month
Last digit is 9: 14th of the month

If your payment day falls on a Sunday or a state holiday, your benefits will be available on the preceding business day. This consistent SNAP payment schedule helps with monthly planning.

For those receiving cash assistance like TAFDC or EAEDC, payments are split into two deposits. The first follows the same SNAP payment dates, and the second arrives 15 days later.

How To Find Your Case Number

If you use a DTA-assigned ID instead of an SSN for your benefits, this number is referred to as your Client ID. The last digit of this ID determines your EBT payment schedule. You can locate your Client ID in a few ways.

Check any recent notices or your approval letter from the Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA).
Log into your DTA Connect account to view your case details.

If you still cannot find it, call the DTA Assistance Line at 877-382-2363. You can also get help in person at a local office, which you can find using the DTA Office Locator.

How to Check Your EBT Deposit Status in Massachusetts

You can check your EBT balance in a few different ways to confirm your deposit has arrived. For a complete list of options, see our guide on how to check your EBT balance in Massachusetts. The three most convenient methods to check your balance after your scheduled SNAP deposit dates are listed below.

The Benny app shows your real-time food and cash balance. It also provides cash-back rewards on eligible EBT purchases at many stores. To start, download the app, create an account with your phone or email, and link your EBT card.
The official DTA Connect website lets you view your current SNAP and cash balances from any device. After you log in and connect your case, your EBT card balance appears on the home page. This is a reliable way to track your benefits.
You can call the 24/7 EBT Customer Service line at 800-997-2555. After you enter your card number, an automated system will state your current food and cash balances. This method offers a quick balance update without internet access.

Download Benny to save on groceries

Get coupons from your favorite brands
Earn 1-3% cash back on SNAP and track your EBT balance
Get 1% cash back with the Benny Visa card and build your credit score

Download the app

Why Your EBT Deposit Might Be Late and What to Do

Several factors can cause a delay in your benefits, pushing payments past their expected EBT deposit dates.

Administrative or Eligibility Snags

Paperwork issues are a common reason for delayed payments. If you have a missing Interim Report, an incomplete recertification, or overdue verification documents, the DTA may hold your benefits. Changes in your income or household size that are still under review can also affect your Massachusetts EBT payment schedule until your case is fully updated and approved.

System or Technical Issues

Sometimes the problem is not with your case but with the system itself. A statewide technical glitch or a processing error at the DTA can temporarily prevent benefits from being loaded onto cards. These issues can disrupt the regular SNAP payment schedule, and payments will resume once the fault is identified and fixed.

Heavy Caseloads and Processing Backlogs

High demand for benefits or staffing shortages can create significant backlogs for the DTA. These administrative bottlenecks slow down case processing for everyone. As a result, your payment might arrive after the planned SNAP payment dates while the agency works through the surge in applications and case updates.

Fraud-Related Holds or Benefit Theft

If the DTA suspects fraudulent activity like card skimming, your account may be frozen as a precaution. This hold prevents your benefits from being deposited until an investigation is complete. While this protects your funds from theft, it means your deposit will be delayed past the usual SNAP deposit dates until the issue is resolved.

Do EBT Benefits Expire or Roll Over?

In Massachusetts, you are not required to spend your full benefit amount each month. Unused SNAP and cash assistance funds automatically carry over on your EBT card. These unaccessed EBT benefits remain available for future use, though different rules apply to each program.

Your SNAP benefits will be available as long as you use your card at least once every 274 days. Any transaction, like a purchase or balance check, resets this clock. If there is no activity for 274 days, the DTA will permanently remove any benefits older than that.

Cash assistance funds, such as TAFDC or EAEDC, operate on a shorter timeline. These benefits are removed from your card if your account is not accessed at all within 90 days of a deposit. The DTA will send a notice before this happens.

It is possible to have expunged cash benefits restored. You must contact the DTA within six months and demonstrate a serious barrier, like a hospitalization, prevented you from using your card. After six months, the funds cannot be recovered.

Get 1-3% cash back on groceries and track your EBT balance

Download the app

What to Do if Your EBT Balance Runs Out Early

Seeing a low EBT balance when the month is far from over can be a stressful experience. It’s a challenging situation, but it doesn't have to be a hopeless one. Fortunately, there are several options you can tap into if you're facing a shortage before your next deposit.

Get an Emergency SNAP Deposit

You may qualify for an emergency SNAP deposit if your circumstances have recently changed. To be eligible, you must meet one of the following criteria:

Your household’s gross monthly income is under $150 and you have $100 or less in cash.
Your shelter costs are higher than your current gross income and cash combined.
You are a migrant or seasonal farmworker household with $100 or less in cash.

If you qualify, start a new “Apply for SNAP” request on the DTA Connect app or at DTAConnect.com. DTA will convert this to an expedited reopening. You will need to upload proof of identity and documentation showing you meet the criteria, then complete an interview.

DTA must issue the benefits within seven days. If you need a card right away, you can visit a local DTA office in Massachusetts and request an emergency EBT card. This can be a huge help when your regular SNAP payment schedule feels too far away.

Ask DTA to Recalculate Your Benefit Mid-Cycle

If your income has dropped or your expenses have gone up, you can ask the DTA to recalculate your benefits. This can result in a supplemental payment before your next scheduled deposit. The EBT payment schedule is fixed, but your benefit amount can change.

To report a change, use the DTA Connect app and select “Report a Change.” You can update information about your rent, utilities, childcare, medical bills, or a decrease in earnings. You will need to upload proof, such as a new lease or a termination letter.

While you are only required to report when your income goes above the limit, reporting these other changes can trigger a supplemental SNAP allotment. Once approved by a caseworker, these extra funds are often issued overnight.

Line Up Same-Day Groceries

While waiting for your benefits to be adjusted or for your next deposit based on the SNAP deposit dates, you can get immediate food assistance. This can help you secure groceries for your family today.

Call the statewide Project Bread FoodSource Hotline at 1-800-645-8333 or use its online Help Directory. Ask the counselors for “emergency food” listings near you. They can point you to several resources, including:

Local pantries offering drive-through boxes
Senior “brown-bag” produce programs
Locations with evening hours
Summer Eats meal sites for children

Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny

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

Download Benny to take control of your spend and get more from your EBT benefits. This can help your funds last longer between your regular SNAP payment dates.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Understanding your SNAP payment schedule in Massachusetts is a big help for managing your monthly budget. Knowing when to expect your benefits lets you plan your shopping trips and avoid running low on essentials.

In this guide, you'll learn about the EBT deposit dates and find solutions for what to do if your payment is late.

Monthly EBT Deposit Schedule in Massachusetts

In Massachusetts, your SNAP benefits are deposited monthly based on the last digit of your Social Security Number. If you don't have an SSN, the state uses the last digit of a DTA-assigned ID number to determine your EBT deposit dates.

Your specific payment day is determined as follows:

Last digit is 0: 1st of the month
Last digit is 1: 2nd of the month
Last digit is 2: 4th of the month
Last digit is 3: 5th of the month
Last digit is 4: 7th of the month
Last digit is 5: 8th of the month
Last digit is 6: 10th of the month
Last digit is 7: 11th of the month
Last digit is 8: 13th of the month
Last digit is 9: 14th of the month

If your payment day falls on a Sunday or a state holiday, your benefits will be available on the preceding business day. This consistent SNAP payment schedule helps with monthly planning.

For those receiving cash assistance like TAFDC or EAEDC, payments are split into two deposits. The first follows the same SNAP payment dates, and the second arrives 15 days later.

How To Find Your Case Number

If you use a DTA-assigned ID instead of an SSN for your benefits, this number is referred to as your Client ID. The last digit of this ID determines your EBT payment schedule. You can locate your Client ID in a few ways.

Check any recent notices or your approval letter from the Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA).
Log into your DTA Connect account to view your case details.

If you still cannot find it, call the DTA Assistance Line at 877-382-2363. You can also get help in person at a local office, which you can find using the DTA Office Locator.

How to Check Your EBT Deposit Status in Massachusetts

You can check your EBT balance in a few different ways to confirm your deposit has arrived. For a complete list of options, see our guide on how to check your EBT balance in Massachusetts. The three most convenient methods to check your balance after your scheduled SNAP deposit dates are listed below.

The Benny app shows your real-time food and cash balance. It also provides cash-back rewards on eligible EBT purchases at many stores. To start, download the app, create an account with your phone or email, and link your EBT card.
The official DTA Connect website lets you view your current SNAP and cash balances from any device. After you log in and connect your case, your EBT card balance appears on the home page. This is a reliable way to track your benefits.
You can call the 24/7 EBT Customer Service line at 800-997-2555. After you enter your card number, an automated system will state your current food and cash balances. This method offers a quick balance update without internet access.

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Why Your EBT Deposit Might Be Late and What to Do

Several factors can cause a delay in your benefits, pushing payments past their expected EBT deposit dates.

Administrative or Eligibility Snags

Paperwork issues are a common reason for delayed payments. If you have a missing Interim Report, an incomplete recertification, or overdue verification documents, the DTA may hold your benefits. Changes in your income or household size that are still under review can also affect your Massachusetts EBT payment schedule until your case is fully updated and approved.

System or Technical Issues

Sometimes the problem is not with your case but with the system itself. A statewide technical glitch or a processing error at the DTA can temporarily prevent benefits from being loaded onto cards. These issues can disrupt the regular SNAP payment schedule, and payments will resume once the fault is identified and fixed.

Heavy Caseloads and Processing Backlogs

High demand for benefits or staffing shortages can create significant backlogs for the DTA. These administrative bottlenecks slow down case processing for everyone. As a result, your payment might arrive after the planned SNAP payment dates while the agency works through the surge in applications and case updates.

Fraud-Related Holds or Benefit Theft

If the DTA suspects fraudulent activity like card skimming, your account may be frozen as a precaution. This hold prevents your benefits from being deposited until an investigation is complete. While this protects your funds from theft, it means your deposit will be delayed past the usual SNAP deposit dates until the issue is resolved.

Do EBT Benefits Expire or Roll Over?

In Massachusetts, you are not required to spend your full benefit amount each month. Unused SNAP and cash assistance funds automatically carry over on your EBT card. These unaccessed EBT benefits remain available for future use, though different rules apply to each program.

Your SNAP benefits will be available as long as you use your card at least once every 274 days. Any transaction, like a purchase or balance check, resets this clock. If there is no activity for 274 days, the DTA will permanently remove any benefits older than that.

Cash assistance funds, such as TAFDC or EAEDC, operate on a shorter timeline. These benefits are removed from your card if your account is not accessed at all within 90 days of a deposit. The DTA will send a notice before this happens.

It is possible to have expunged cash benefits restored. You must contact the DTA within six months and demonstrate a serious barrier, like a hospitalization, prevented you from using your card. After six months, the funds cannot be recovered.

Get 1-3% cash back on groceries and track your EBT balance

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What to Do if Your EBT Balance Runs Out Early

Seeing a low EBT balance when the month is far from over can be a stressful experience. It’s a challenging situation, but it doesn't have to be a hopeless one. Fortunately, there are several options you can tap into if you're facing a shortage before your next deposit.

Get an Emergency SNAP Deposit

You may qualify for an emergency SNAP deposit if your circumstances have recently changed. To be eligible, you must meet one of the following criteria:

Your household’s gross monthly income is under $150 and you have $100 or less in cash.
Your shelter costs are higher than your current gross income and cash combined.
You are a migrant or seasonal farmworker household with $100 or less in cash.

If you qualify, start a new “Apply for SNAP” request on the DTA Connect app or at DTAConnect.com. DTA will convert this to an expedited reopening. You will need to upload proof of identity and documentation showing you meet the criteria, then complete an interview.

DTA must issue the benefits within seven days. If you need a card right away, you can visit a local DTA office in Massachusetts and request an emergency EBT card. This can be a huge help when your regular SNAP payment schedule feels too far away.

Ask DTA to Recalculate Your Benefit Mid-Cycle

If your income has dropped or your expenses have gone up, you can ask the DTA to recalculate your benefits. This can result in a supplemental payment before your next scheduled deposit. The EBT payment schedule is fixed, but your benefit amount can change.

To report a change, use the DTA Connect app and select “Report a Change.” You can update information about your rent, utilities, childcare, medical bills, or a decrease in earnings. You will need to upload proof, such as a new lease or a termination letter.

While you are only required to report when your income goes above the limit, reporting these other changes can trigger a supplemental SNAP allotment. Once approved by a caseworker, these extra funds are often issued overnight.

Line Up Same-Day Groceries

While waiting for your benefits to be adjusted or for your next deposit based on the SNAP deposit dates, you can get immediate food assistance. This can help you secure groceries for your family today.

Call the statewide Project Bread FoodSource Hotline at 1-800-645-8333 or use its online Help Directory. Ask the counselors for “emergency food” listings near you. They can point you to several resources, including:

Local pantries offering drive-through boxes
Senior “brown-bag” produce programs
Locations with evening hours
Summer Eats meal sites for children

Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny

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

Download Benny to take control of your spend and get more from your EBT benefits. This can help your funds last longer between your regular SNAP payment dates.