New Jersey EBT Deposit Schedule for 2025

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Knowing your New Jersey EBT deposit dates helps you plan your grocery budget. Understanding your specific SNAP payment dates means you can better manage your monthly shopping trips and avoid running low on funds for essentials.

In this guide, you'll learn when to expect your monthly benefits and find steps to troubleshoot common reasons for a late deposit.

Monthly EBT Deposit Schedule in New Jersey

In New Jersey, your SNAP payment dates are determined by the seventh digit of your case number. Benefits are distributed over the first five days of the month.

Your specific SNAP payment schedule is as follows:

1st of the month: Case numbers with a 7th digit of 1 or 2
2nd of the month: Case numbers with a 7th digit of 3 or 4
3rd of the month: Case numbers with a 7th digit of 5 or 6
4th of the month: Case numbers with a 7th digit of 7 or 8
5th of the month: Case numbers with a 7th digit of 9 or 0

An exception to this EBT payment schedule applies to Warren County residents, who receive their benefits on the first of every month regardless of their case number.

For those receiving cash assistance through Work First New Jersey, benefits are loaded onto the same Families First EBT card on the first of each month. This schedule is consistent statewide and does not change based on case number.

How to Find Your Case Number

Knowing your case number is necessary for determining your SNAP deposit dates. You can locate this number on official paperwork you have received about your benefits.

Look at any official notices sent to you.
Check the paperwork that came with your Families First EBT card.
Count the digits from left to right, ignoring dashes. The seventh digit sets your deposit day.

If you still cannot find your case number, call the New Jersey SNAP Hotline at 1-800-687-9512. For card-specific issues, contact the Families First EBT Customer Service line at 1-800-997-3333.

For in-person assistance, you can find your county's office using the official SNAP office locator. Additional program details are available on the NJ SNAP homepage.

How to Check Your EBT Deposit Status in New Jersey

You can confirm your deposit has arrived in a few different ways. After your scheduled EBT deposit dates, a quick balance check will show your new total. For a complete list of options, see our guide on how to check your EBT balance in New Jersey.

Here are three of the most convenient ways to check your EBT balance:

Download the Benny app to see your real-time SNAP and cash balance. After you create an account and link your card, the app also provides automatic cashback on eligible purchases at participating stores. Your balance updates instantly after every transaction.
Visit the official NJFamiliesFirst.com portal. Create an account or sign in to view your current balance and transaction history. This method also lets you manage your card, such as a lock or replacement request. The New Jersey SNAP payment schedule is not available here.
Call the 24-hour automated customer service line at 1-800-997-3333. Have your 16-digit card number ready. Follow the prompts to hear your current SNAP and cash balances. This is a reliable way to check your funds after your expected SNAP payment dates.

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 monthly benefits.

Administrative or Eligibility Snags

Delays can happen if required paperwork, like a recertification packet, is late or incomplete. The county cannot issue benefits until the file is complete. Similarly, missing proofs such as pay stubs or ID, or conflicting information can halt your case until everything is resolved. This can affect your expected New Jersey SNAP payment dates.

Heavy County Workload or Staffing Shortages

County welfare agencies sometimes struggle with staff shortages while managing a growing number of cases. This combination can create significant backlogs, meaning workers may not get to every case before the normal processing run. As a result, your benefits might not arrive according to the standard EBT payment schedule.

Technical or System-Level Glitches

Sometimes the problem is purely technical. Outages or file-transfer issues within the state’s eligibility or EBT processing systems can prevent the benefit file from posting on time. This can happen when a contractor's platform is down for maintenance, disrupting the usual SNAP payment schedule.

Quality-Control Reviews, Fraud Holds, or Sanctions

Your household might be randomly selected for a SNAP Quality Control review. In other cases, a suspected fraud investigation or a sanction can cause benefits to be placed on hold. Payments are typically suspended until the review is finished, which can push them past the expected SNAP deposit dates.

Do EBT Benefits Expire or Roll Over?

In New Jersey, any unused NJ SNAP or cash assistance funds on your EBT card will automatically roll over to the next month. The balance you don't spend simply remains in your account for future use.

However, you must use your card at least once every 274 days. If your account has no activity for this period, any benefits that are 274 days or older will be permanently removed or expunged.

The state will mail a warning notice at least 30 days before this happens, explaining how to keep your account active. Making any purchase or withdrawal restarts the 274-day countdown for your remaining funds.

Once benefits are expunged, they cannot be recovered. The state may also clear an account balance immediately and without notice if all household members are confirmed to be deceased.

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

It’s a stressful situation when your EBT balance is gone before the month is over. The good news is that you don’t have to go without food while waiting for your benefits to reload. If you’re facing a shortage, there are several strategies you can use to get through.

Apply for Expedited (Emergency) NJ SNAP

You may be able to get an emergency SNAP allotment loaded to your card within seven days. To qualify for this expedited service, your household must meet one of these tests:

Your household income is under $150 and you have less than $100 in liquid resources.
Your rent/mortgage and utilities are higher than your current income and available cash.
You are a migrant or seasonal farmworker with under $100 in liquid assets.

File a new application and tell the worker you are requesting “expedited service.” As long as your identity is verified, benefits must be made available no later than the seventh day after applying, which can help before your next deposit on the EBT payment schedule.

If you need food immediately, you can find a same-day pantry or mobile distribution through the Community FoodBank of New Jersey’s statewide map.

Ask for a Household-Change Review

If your circumstances have changed, you can report it to potentially raise your regular benefit amount. This can increase your monthly allotment before the next cycle in the New Jersey SNAP payment schedule. You should report the change if you have:

Proof of new deductible expenses like higher rent, utility bills, or child-care payments.
Medical costs for a senior or disabled household member.
Proof that your earnings have dropped.

By rule, counties must raise your allotment for the next issuance when they receive a report of a $100 or more income loss, a new household member, or higher shelter costs. Any missed increases are retroactive. If an adjustment is denied, you can request a supervisor conference or file for a Fair Hearing.

Stretch the Gap With No-Cost Groceries

Finding no-cost groceries can help you get by until your benefits reload. Use NJ 211’s Food Resources directory or dial 211 to get an operator who can find local pantries, soup kitchens, and meal sites. This is a good option if your SNAP deposit dates are still a ways off.

Also, look for community fridges on social media by searching for “community fridge” plus your county. Unlike pantries, these 24-hour coolers don’t require ID or limit visits. They often stock produce, bread, and prepared items that can cover a few days until your EBT reloads, as detailed in this food services guide.

Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny

Benny is a free app that shows your EBT balance in real time and provides cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target and Walmart. To begin, link your EBT card to the app. After a purchase, scan your receipt to receive cashback for SNAP-eligible items on your EBT card.

This feature can help you manage funds between your New Jersey SNAP payment dates. Download Benny to take control of your expenses and get more from your EBT benefits. It helps you prepare for the monthly EBT payment schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

SHARE

Knowing your New Jersey EBT deposit dates helps you plan your grocery budget. Understanding your specific SNAP payment dates means you can better manage your monthly shopping trips and avoid running low on funds for essentials.

In this guide, you'll learn when to expect your monthly benefits and find steps to troubleshoot common reasons for a late deposit.

Monthly EBT Deposit Schedule in New Jersey

In New Jersey, your SNAP payment dates are determined by the seventh digit of your case number. Benefits are distributed over the first five days of the month.

Your specific SNAP payment schedule is as follows:

1st of the month: Case numbers with a 7th digit of 1 or 2
2nd of the month: Case numbers with a 7th digit of 3 or 4
3rd of the month: Case numbers with a 7th digit of 5 or 6
4th of the month: Case numbers with a 7th digit of 7 or 8
5th of the month: Case numbers with a 7th digit of 9 or 0

An exception to this EBT payment schedule applies to Warren County residents, who receive their benefits on the first of every month regardless of their case number.

For those receiving cash assistance through Work First New Jersey, benefits are loaded onto the same Families First EBT card on the first of each month. This schedule is consistent statewide and does not change based on case number.

How to Find Your Case Number

Knowing your case number is necessary for determining your SNAP deposit dates. You can locate this number on official paperwork you have received about your benefits.

Look at any official notices sent to you.
Check the paperwork that came with your Families First EBT card.
Count the digits from left to right, ignoring dashes. The seventh digit sets your deposit day.

If you still cannot find your case number, call the New Jersey SNAP Hotline at 1-800-687-9512. For card-specific issues, contact the Families First EBT Customer Service line at 1-800-997-3333.

For in-person assistance, you can find your county's office using the official SNAP office locator. Additional program details are available on the NJ SNAP homepage.

How to Check Your EBT Deposit Status in New Jersey

You can confirm your deposit has arrived in a few different ways. After your scheduled EBT deposit dates, a quick balance check will show your new total. For a complete list of options, see our guide on how to check your EBT balance in New Jersey.

Here are three of the most convenient ways to check your EBT balance:

Download the Benny app to see your real-time SNAP and cash balance. After you create an account and link your card, the app also provides automatic cashback on eligible purchases at participating stores. Your balance updates instantly after every transaction.
Visit the official NJFamiliesFirst.com portal. Create an account or sign in to view your current balance and transaction history. This method also lets you manage your card, such as a lock or replacement request. The New Jersey SNAP payment schedule is not available here.
Call the 24-hour automated customer service line at 1-800-997-3333. Have your 16-digit card number ready. Follow the prompts to hear your current SNAP and cash balances. This is a reliable way to check your funds after your expected SNAP payment dates.

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 monthly benefits.

Administrative or Eligibility Snags

Delays can happen if required paperwork, like a recertification packet, is late or incomplete. The county cannot issue benefits until the file is complete. Similarly, missing proofs such as pay stubs or ID, or conflicting information can halt your case until everything is resolved. This can affect your expected New Jersey SNAP payment dates.

Heavy County Workload or Staffing Shortages

County welfare agencies sometimes struggle with staff shortages while managing a growing number of cases. This combination can create significant backlogs, meaning workers may not get to every case before the normal processing run. As a result, your benefits might not arrive according to the standard EBT payment schedule.

Technical or System-Level Glitches

Sometimes the problem is purely technical. Outages or file-transfer issues within the state’s eligibility or EBT processing systems can prevent the benefit file from posting on time. This can happen when a contractor's platform is down for maintenance, disrupting the usual SNAP payment schedule.

Quality-Control Reviews, Fraud Holds, or Sanctions

Your household might be randomly selected for a SNAP Quality Control review. In other cases, a suspected fraud investigation or a sanction can cause benefits to be placed on hold. Payments are typically suspended until the review is finished, which can push them past the expected SNAP deposit dates.

Do EBT Benefits Expire or Roll Over?

In New Jersey, any unused NJ SNAP or cash assistance funds on your EBT card will automatically roll over to the next month. The balance you don't spend simply remains in your account for future use.

However, you must use your card at least once every 274 days. If your account has no activity for this period, any benefits that are 274 days or older will be permanently removed or expunged.

The state will mail a warning notice at least 30 days before this happens, explaining how to keep your account active. Making any purchase or withdrawal restarts the 274-day countdown for your remaining funds.

Once benefits are expunged, they cannot be recovered. The state may also clear an account balance immediately and without notice if all household members are confirmed to be deceased.

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

It’s a stressful situation when your EBT balance is gone before the month is over. The good news is that you don’t have to go without food while waiting for your benefits to reload. If you’re facing a shortage, there are several strategies you can use to get through.

Apply for Expedited (Emergency) NJ SNAP

You may be able to get an emergency SNAP allotment loaded to your card within seven days. To qualify for this expedited service, your household must meet one of these tests:

Your household income is under $150 and you have less than $100 in liquid resources.
Your rent/mortgage and utilities are higher than your current income and available cash.
You are a migrant or seasonal farmworker with under $100 in liquid assets.

File a new application and tell the worker you are requesting “expedited service.” As long as your identity is verified, benefits must be made available no later than the seventh day after applying, which can help before your next deposit on the EBT payment schedule.

If you need food immediately, you can find a same-day pantry or mobile distribution through the Community FoodBank of New Jersey’s statewide map.

Ask for a Household-Change Review

If your circumstances have changed, you can report it to potentially raise your regular benefit amount. This can increase your monthly allotment before the next cycle in the New Jersey SNAP payment schedule. You should report the change if you have:

Proof of new deductible expenses like higher rent, utility bills, or child-care payments.
Medical costs for a senior or disabled household member.
Proof that your earnings have dropped.

By rule, counties must raise your allotment for the next issuance when they receive a report of a $100 or more income loss, a new household member, or higher shelter costs. Any missed increases are retroactive. If an adjustment is denied, you can request a supervisor conference or file for a Fair Hearing.

Stretch the Gap With No-Cost Groceries

Finding no-cost groceries can help you get by until your benefits reload. Use NJ 211’s Food Resources directory or dial 211 to get an operator who can find local pantries, soup kitchens, and meal sites. This is a good option if your SNAP deposit dates are still a ways off.

Also, look for community fridges on social media by searching for “community fridge” plus your county. Unlike pantries, these 24-hour coolers don’t require ID or limit visits. They often stock produce, bread, and prepared items that can cover a few days until your EBT reloads, as detailed in this food services guide.

Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny

Benny is a free app that shows your EBT balance in real time and provides cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target and Walmart. To begin, link your EBT card to the app. After a purchase, scan your receipt to receive cashback for SNAP-eligible items on your EBT card.

This feature can help you manage funds between your New Jersey SNAP payment dates. Download Benny to take control of your expenses and get more from your EBT benefits. It helps you prepare for the monthly EBT payment schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

SHARE

Knowing your New Jersey EBT deposit dates helps you plan your grocery budget. Understanding your specific SNAP payment dates means you can better manage your monthly shopping trips and avoid running low on funds for essentials.

In this guide, you'll learn when to expect your monthly benefits and find steps to troubleshoot common reasons for a late deposit.

Monthly EBT Deposit Schedule in New Jersey

In New Jersey, your SNAP payment dates are determined by the seventh digit of your case number. Benefits are distributed over the first five days of the month.

Your specific SNAP payment schedule is as follows:

1st of the month: Case numbers with a 7th digit of 1 or 2
2nd of the month: Case numbers with a 7th digit of 3 or 4
3rd of the month: Case numbers with a 7th digit of 5 or 6
4th of the month: Case numbers with a 7th digit of 7 or 8
5th of the month: Case numbers with a 7th digit of 9 or 0

An exception to this EBT payment schedule applies to Warren County residents, who receive their benefits on the first of every month regardless of their case number.

For those receiving cash assistance through Work First New Jersey, benefits are loaded onto the same Families First EBT card on the first of each month. This schedule is consistent statewide and does not change based on case number.

How to Find Your Case Number

Knowing your case number is necessary for determining your SNAP deposit dates. You can locate this number on official paperwork you have received about your benefits.

Look at any official notices sent to you.
Check the paperwork that came with your Families First EBT card.
Count the digits from left to right, ignoring dashes. The seventh digit sets your deposit day.

If you still cannot find your case number, call the New Jersey SNAP Hotline at 1-800-687-9512. For card-specific issues, contact the Families First EBT Customer Service line at 1-800-997-3333.

For in-person assistance, you can find your county's office using the official SNAP office locator. Additional program details are available on the NJ SNAP homepage.

How to Check Your EBT Deposit Status in New Jersey

You can confirm your deposit has arrived in a few different ways. After your scheduled EBT deposit dates, a quick balance check will show your new total. For a complete list of options, see our guide on how to check your EBT balance in New Jersey.

Here are three of the most convenient ways to check your EBT balance:

Download the Benny app to see your real-time SNAP and cash balance. After you create an account and link your card, the app also provides automatic cashback on eligible purchases at participating stores. Your balance updates instantly after every transaction.
Visit the official NJFamiliesFirst.com portal. Create an account or sign in to view your current balance and transaction history. This method also lets you manage your card, such as a lock or replacement request. The New Jersey SNAP payment schedule is not available here.
Call the 24-hour automated customer service line at 1-800-997-3333. Have your 16-digit card number ready. Follow the prompts to hear your current SNAP and cash balances. This is a reliable way to check your funds after your expected SNAP payment dates.

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 monthly benefits.

Administrative or Eligibility Snags

Delays can happen if required paperwork, like a recertification packet, is late or incomplete. The county cannot issue benefits until the file is complete. Similarly, missing proofs such as pay stubs or ID, or conflicting information can halt your case until everything is resolved. This can affect your expected New Jersey SNAP payment dates.

Heavy County Workload or Staffing Shortages

County welfare agencies sometimes struggle with staff shortages while managing a growing number of cases. This combination can create significant backlogs, meaning workers may not get to every case before the normal processing run. As a result, your benefits might not arrive according to the standard EBT payment schedule.

Technical or System-Level Glitches

Sometimes the problem is purely technical. Outages or file-transfer issues within the state’s eligibility or EBT processing systems can prevent the benefit file from posting on time. This can happen when a contractor's platform is down for maintenance, disrupting the usual SNAP payment schedule.

Quality-Control Reviews, Fraud Holds, or Sanctions

Your household might be randomly selected for a SNAP Quality Control review. In other cases, a suspected fraud investigation or a sanction can cause benefits to be placed on hold. Payments are typically suspended until the review is finished, which can push them past the expected SNAP deposit dates.

Do EBT Benefits Expire or Roll Over?

In New Jersey, any unused NJ SNAP or cash assistance funds on your EBT card will automatically roll over to the next month. The balance you don't spend simply remains in your account for future use.

However, you must use your card at least once every 274 days. If your account has no activity for this period, any benefits that are 274 days or older will be permanently removed or expunged.

The state will mail a warning notice at least 30 days before this happens, explaining how to keep your account active. Making any purchase or withdrawal restarts the 274-day countdown for your remaining funds.

Once benefits are expunged, they cannot be recovered. The state may also clear an account balance immediately and without notice if all household members are confirmed to be deceased.

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

It’s a stressful situation when your EBT balance is gone before the month is over. The good news is that you don’t have to go without food while waiting for your benefits to reload. If you’re facing a shortage, there are several strategies you can use to get through.

Apply for Expedited (Emergency) NJ SNAP

You may be able to get an emergency SNAP allotment loaded to your card within seven days. To qualify for this expedited service, your household must meet one of these tests:

Your household income is under $150 and you have less than $100 in liquid resources.
Your rent/mortgage and utilities are higher than your current income and available cash.
You are a migrant or seasonal farmworker with under $100 in liquid assets.

File a new application and tell the worker you are requesting “expedited service.” As long as your identity is verified, benefits must be made available no later than the seventh day after applying, which can help before your next deposit on the EBT payment schedule.

If you need food immediately, you can find a same-day pantry or mobile distribution through the Community FoodBank of New Jersey’s statewide map.

Ask for a Household-Change Review

If your circumstances have changed, you can report it to potentially raise your regular benefit amount. This can increase your monthly allotment before the next cycle in the New Jersey SNAP payment schedule. You should report the change if you have:

Proof of new deductible expenses like higher rent, utility bills, or child-care payments.
Medical costs for a senior or disabled household member.
Proof that your earnings have dropped.

By rule, counties must raise your allotment for the next issuance when they receive a report of a $100 or more income loss, a new household member, or higher shelter costs. Any missed increases are retroactive. If an adjustment is denied, you can request a supervisor conference or file for a Fair Hearing.

Stretch the Gap With No-Cost Groceries

Finding no-cost groceries can help you get by until your benefits reload. Use NJ 211’s Food Resources directory or dial 211 to get an operator who can find local pantries, soup kitchens, and meal sites. This is a good option if your SNAP deposit dates are still a ways off.

Also, look for community fridges on social media by searching for “community fridge” plus your county. Unlike pantries, these 24-hour coolers don’t require ID or limit visits. They often stock produce, bread, and prepared items that can cover a few days until your EBT reloads, as detailed in this food services guide.

Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny

Benny is a free app that shows your EBT balance in real time and provides cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target and Walmart. To begin, link your EBT card to the app. After a purchase, scan your receipt to receive cashback for SNAP-eligible items on your EBT card.

This feature can help you manage funds between your New Jersey SNAP payment dates. Download Benny to take control of your expenses and get more from your EBT benefits. It helps you prepare for the monthly EBT payment schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

SHARE

Knowing your New Jersey EBT deposit dates helps you plan your grocery budget. Understanding your specific SNAP payment dates means you can better manage your monthly shopping trips and avoid running low on funds for essentials.

In this guide, you'll learn when to expect your monthly benefits and find steps to troubleshoot common reasons for a late deposit.

Monthly EBT Deposit Schedule in New Jersey

In New Jersey, your SNAP payment dates are determined by the seventh digit of your case number. Benefits are distributed over the first five days of the month.

Your specific SNAP payment schedule is as follows:

1st of the month: Case numbers with a 7th digit of 1 or 2
2nd of the month: Case numbers with a 7th digit of 3 or 4
3rd of the month: Case numbers with a 7th digit of 5 or 6
4th of the month: Case numbers with a 7th digit of 7 or 8
5th of the month: Case numbers with a 7th digit of 9 or 0

An exception to this EBT payment schedule applies to Warren County residents, who receive their benefits on the first of every month regardless of their case number.

For those receiving cash assistance through Work First New Jersey, benefits are loaded onto the same Families First EBT card on the first of each month. This schedule is consistent statewide and does not change based on case number.

How to Find Your Case Number

Knowing your case number is necessary for determining your SNAP deposit dates. You can locate this number on official paperwork you have received about your benefits.

Look at any official notices sent to you.
Check the paperwork that came with your Families First EBT card.
Count the digits from left to right, ignoring dashes. The seventh digit sets your deposit day.

If you still cannot find your case number, call the New Jersey SNAP Hotline at 1-800-687-9512. For card-specific issues, contact the Families First EBT Customer Service line at 1-800-997-3333.

For in-person assistance, you can find your county's office using the official SNAP office locator. Additional program details are available on the NJ SNAP homepage.

How to Check Your EBT Deposit Status in New Jersey

You can confirm your deposit has arrived in a few different ways. After your scheduled EBT deposit dates, a quick balance check will show your new total. For a complete list of options, see our guide on how to check your EBT balance in New Jersey.

Here are three of the most convenient ways to check your EBT balance:

Download the Benny app to see your real-time SNAP and cash balance. After you create an account and link your card, the app also provides automatic cashback on eligible purchases at participating stores. Your balance updates instantly after every transaction.
Visit the official NJFamiliesFirst.com portal. Create an account or sign in to view your current balance and transaction history. This method also lets you manage your card, such as a lock or replacement request. The New Jersey SNAP payment schedule is not available here.
Call the 24-hour automated customer service line at 1-800-997-3333. Have your 16-digit card number ready. Follow the prompts to hear your current SNAP and cash balances. This is a reliable way to check your funds after your expected SNAP payment dates.

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 monthly benefits.

Administrative or Eligibility Snags

Delays can happen if required paperwork, like a recertification packet, is late or incomplete. The county cannot issue benefits until the file is complete. Similarly, missing proofs such as pay stubs or ID, or conflicting information can halt your case until everything is resolved. This can affect your expected New Jersey SNAP payment dates.

Heavy County Workload or Staffing Shortages

County welfare agencies sometimes struggle with staff shortages while managing a growing number of cases. This combination can create significant backlogs, meaning workers may not get to every case before the normal processing run. As a result, your benefits might not arrive according to the standard EBT payment schedule.

Technical or System-Level Glitches

Sometimes the problem is purely technical. Outages or file-transfer issues within the state’s eligibility or EBT processing systems can prevent the benefit file from posting on time. This can happen when a contractor's platform is down for maintenance, disrupting the usual SNAP payment schedule.

Quality-Control Reviews, Fraud Holds, or Sanctions

Your household might be randomly selected for a SNAP Quality Control review. In other cases, a suspected fraud investigation or a sanction can cause benefits to be placed on hold. Payments are typically suspended until the review is finished, which can push them past the expected SNAP deposit dates.

Do EBT Benefits Expire or Roll Over?

In New Jersey, any unused NJ SNAP or cash assistance funds on your EBT card will automatically roll over to the next month. The balance you don't spend simply remains in your account for future use.

However, you must use your card at least once every 274 days. If your account has no activity for this period, any benefits that are 274 days or older will be permanently removed or expunged.

The state will mail a warning notice at least 30 days before this happens, explaining how to keep your account active. Making any purchase or withdrawal restarts the 274-day countdown for your remaining funds.

Once benefits are expunged, they cannot be recovered. The state may also clear an account balance immediately and without notice if all household members are confirmed to be deceased.

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

It’s a stressful situation when your EBT balance is gone before the month is over. The good news is that you don’t have to go without food while waiting for your benefits to reload. If you’re facing a shortage, there are several strategies you can use to get through.

Apply for Expedited (Emergency) NJ SNAP

You may be able to get an emergency SNAP allotment loaded to your card within seven days. To qualify for this expedited service, your household must meet one of these tests:

Your household income is under $150 and you have less than $100 in liquid resources.
Your rent/mortgage and utilities are higher than your current income and available cash.
You are a migrant or seasonal farmworker with under $100 in liquid assets.

File a new application and tell the worker you are requesting “expedited service.” As long as your identity is verified, benefits must be made available no later than the seventh day after applying, which can help before your next deposit on the EBT payment schedule.

If you need food immediately, you can find a same-day pantry or mobile distribution through the Community FoodBank of New Jersey’s statewide map.

Ask for a Household-Change Review

If your circumstances have changed, you can report it to potentially raise your regular benefit amount. This can increase your monthly allotment before the next cycle in the New Jersey SNAP payment schedule. You should report the change if you have:

Proof of new deductible expenses like higher rent, utility bills, or child-care payments.
Medical costs for a senior or disabled household member.
Proof that your earnings have dropped.

By rule, counties must raise your allotment for the next issuance when they receive a report of a $100 or more income loss, a new household member, or higher shelter costs. Any missed increases are retroactive. If an adjustment is denied, you can request a supervisor conference or file for a Fair Hearing.

Stretch the Gap With No-Cost Groceries

Finding no-cost groceries can help you get by until your benefits reload. Use NJ 211’s Food Resources directory or dial 211 to get an operator who can find local pantries, soup kitchens, and meal sites. This is a good option if your SNAP deposit dates are still a ways off.

Also, look for community fridges on social media by searching for “community fridge” plus your county. Unlike pantries, these 24-hour coolers don’t require ID or limit visits. They often stock produce, bread, and prepared items that can cover a few days until your EBT reloads, as detailed in this food services guide.

Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny

Benny is a free app that shows your EBT balance in real time and provides cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target and Walmart. To begin, link your EBT card to the app. After a purchase, scan your receipt to receive cashback for SNAP-eligible items on your EBT card.

This feature can help you manage funds between your New Jersey SNAP payment dates. Download Benny to take control of your expenses and get more from your EBT benefits. It helps you prepare for the monthly EBT payment schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Knowing your New Jersey EBT deposit dates helps you plan your grocery budget. Understanding your specific SNAP payment dates means you can better manage your monthly shopping trips and avoid running low on funds for essentials.

In this guide, you'll learn when to expect your monthly benefits and find steps to troubleshoot common reasons for a late deposit.

Monthly EBT Deposit Schedule in New Jersey

In New Jersey, your SNAP payment dates are determined by the seventh digit of your case number. Benefits are distributed over the first five days of the month.

Your specific SNAP payment schedule is as follows:

1st of the month: Case numbers with a 7th digit of 1 or 2
2nd of the month: Case numbers with a 7th digit of 3 or 4
3rd of the month: Case numbers with a 7th digit of 5 or 6
4th of the month: Case numbers with a 7th digit of 7 or 8
5th of the month: Case numbers with a 7th digit of 9 or 0

An exception to this EBT payment schedule applies to Warren County residents, who receive their benefits on the first of every month regardless of their case number.

For those receiving cash assistance through Work First New Jersey, benefits are loaded onto the same Families First EBT card on the first of each month. This schedule is consistent statewide and does not change based on case number.

How to Find Your Case Number

Knowing your case number is necessary for determining your SNAP deposit dates. You can locate this number on official paperwork you have received about your benefits.

Look at any official notices sent to you.
Check the paperwork that came with your Families First EBT card.
Count the digits from left to right, ignoring dashes. The seventh digit sets your deposit day.

If you still cannot find your case number, call the New Jersey SNAP Hotline at 1-800-687-9512. For card-specific issues, contact the Families First EBT Customer Service line at 1-800-997-3333.

For in-person assistance, you can find your county's office using the official SNAP office locator. Additional program details are available on the NJ SNAP homepage.

How to Check Your EBT Deposit Status in New Jersey

You can confirm your deposit has arrived in a few different ways. After your scheduled EBT deposit dates, a quick balance check will show your new total. For a complete list of options, see our guide on how to check your EBT balance in New Jersey.

Here are three of the most convenient ways to check your EBT balance:

Download the Benny app to see your real-time SNAP and cash balance. After you create an account and link your card, the app also provides automatic cashback on eligible purchases at participating stores. Your balance updates instantly after every transaction.
Visit the official NJFamiliesFirst.com portal. Create an account or sign in to view your current balance and transaction history. This method also lets you manage your card, such as a lock or replacement request. The New Jersey SNAP payment schedule is not available here.
Call the 24-hour automated customer service line at 1-800-997-3333. Have your 16-digit card number ready. Follow the prompts to hear your current SNAP and cash balances. This is a reliable way to check your funds after your expected SNAP payment dates.

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Why Your EBT Deposit Might Be Late and What to Do

Several factors can cause a delay in your monthly benefits.

Administrative or Eligibility Snags

Delays can happen if required paperwork, like a recertification packet, is late or incomplete. The county cannot issue benefits until the file is complete. Similarly, missing proofs such as pay stubs or ID, or conflicting information can halt your case until everything is resolved. This can affect your expected New Jersey SNAP payment dates.

Heavy County Workload or Staffing Shortages

County welfare agencies sometimes struggle with staff shortages while managing a growing number of cases. This combination can create significant backlogs, meaning workers may not get to every case before the normal processing run. As a result, your benefits might not arrive according to the standard EBT payment schedule.

Technical or System-Level Glitches

Sometimes the problem is purely technical. Outages or file-transfer issues within the state’s eligibility or EBT processing systems can prevent the benefit file from posting on time. This can happen when a contractor's platform is down for maintenance, disrupting the usual SNAP payment schedule.

Quality-Control Reviews, Fraud Holds, or Sanctions

Your household might be randomly selected for a SNAP Quality Control review. In other cases, a suspected fraud investigation or a sanction can cause benefits to be placed on hold. Payments are typically suspended until the review is finished, which can push them past the expected SNAP deposit dates.

Do EBT Benefits Expire or Roll Over?

In New Jersey, any unused NJ SNAP or cash assistance funds on your EBT card will automatically roll over to the next month. The balance you don't spend simply remains in your account for future use.

However, you must use your card at least once every 274 days. If your account has no activity for this period, any benefits that are 274 days or older will be permanently removed or expunged.

The state will mail a warning notice at least 30 days before this happens, explaining how to keep your account active. Making any purchase or withdrawal restarts the 274-day countdown for your remaining funds.

Once benefits are expunged, they cannot be recovered. The state may also clear an account balance immediately and without notice if all household members are confirmed to be deceased.

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

It’s a stressful situation when your EBT balance is gone before the month is over. The good news is that you don’t have to go without food while waiting for your benefits to reload. If you’re facing a shortage, there are several strategies you can use to get through.

Apply for Expedited (Emergency) NJ SNAP

You may be able to get an emergency SNAP allotment loaded to your card within seven days. To qualify for this expedited service, your household must meet one of these tests:

Your household income is under $150 and you have less than $100 in liquid resources.
Your rent/mortgage and utilities are higher than your current income and available cash.
You are a migrant or seasonal farmworker with under $100 in liquid assets.

File a new application and tell the worker you are requesting “expedited service.” As long as your identity is verified, benefits must be made available no later than the seventh day after applying, which can help before your next deposit on the EBT payment schedule.

If you need food immediately, you can find a same-day pantry or mobile distribution through the Community FoodBank of New Jersey’s statewide map.

Ask for a Household-Change Review

If your circumstances have changed, you can report it to potentially raise your regular benefit amount. This can increase your monthly allotment before the next cycle in the New Jersey SNAP payment schedule. You should report the change if you have:

Proof of new deductible expenses like higher rent, utility bills, or child-care payments.
Medical costs for a senior or disabled household member.
Proof that your earnings have dropped.

By rule, counties must raise your allotment for the next issuance when they receive a report of a $100 or more income loss, a new household member, or higher shelter costs. Any missed increases are retroactive. If an adjustment is denied, you can request a supervisor conference or file for a Fair Hearing.

Stretch the Gap With No-Cost Groceries

Finding no-cost groceries can help you get by until your benefits reload. Use NJ 211’s Food Resources directory or dial 211 to get an operator who can find local pantries, soup kitchens, and meal sites. This is a good option if your SNAP deposit dates are still a ways off.

Also, look for community fridges on social media by searching for “community fridge” plus your county. Unlike pantries, these 24-hour coolers don’t require ID or limit visits. They often stock produce, bread, and prepared items that can cover a few days until your EBT reloads, as detailed in this food services guide.

Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny

Benny is a free app that shows your EBT balance in real time and provides cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target and Walmart. To begin, link your EBT card to the app. After a purchase, scan your receipt to receive cashback for SNAP-eligible items on your EBT card.

This feature can help you manage funds between your New Jersey SNAP payment dates. Download Benny to take control of your expenses and get more from your EBT benefits. It helps you prepare for the monthly EBT payment schedule.