South Carolina EBT Deposit Schedule for 2025

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Knowing your EBT payment schedule in South Carolina is a game-changer for managing your monthly budget. It helps you plan your grocery trips and avoid the stress of wondering when your benefits will arrive.

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

Monthly EBT Deposit Schedule in South Carolina

In South Carolina, your SNAP benefits deposit date is determined by the last digit of your case number. Most households follow a staggered schedule, which applies to anyone who began receiving benefits on or after September 1, 2012.

Here is a breakdown of those specific SNAP deposit dates:

2nd of the month: Case numbers ending in 2
4th of the month: Case numbers ending in 4
6th of the month: Case numbers ending in 6
8th of the month: Case numbers ending in 8
10th of the month: Case numbers ending in 0
11th of the month: Case numbers ending in 1
13th of the month: Case numbers ending in 3
15th of the month: Case numbers ending in 5
17th of the month: Case numbers ending in 7
19th of the month: Case numbers ending in 9

A smaller group of households that has received SNAP continuously since before September 1, 2012, follows an older EBT payment schedule from the 1st to the 10th of the month. For those receiving Family Independence (TANF), cash benefits are always deposited on the 1st of each month.

How to Find Your Case Number

Knowing your case number is necessary to determine your place in the SNAP payment schedule. If you have misplaced it or do not have it memorized, you can retrieve it in a few ways.

Check the upper-right corner of any notice you have received from the Department of Social Services (DSS).
Sign in to your online Benefits Portal account dashboard.
Call the EBT Customer Service line at 1-800-554-5268.

How to Check Your EBT Deposit Status in South Carolina

You can confirm your deposit has arrived in a few different ways. For a complete list of options, our guide on how to check your EBT balance in South Carolina has all the details.

To see your balance after your designated SNAP deposit dates, here are three of the most convenient methods:

Download the Benny app and link your EBT card. The app shows your real-time SNAP and cash balances on the home screen. It also provides access to cashback at many stores when you make eligible EBT purchases.
Visit the official ConnectEBT website. After you log in with your User ID and password, the main page shows your available SNAP and cash balances. First-time users must register their card before they can sign in to the portal.
Call the 24-hour EBT Customer Service line at 1-800-554-5268. Follow the prompts to enter your 16-digit EBT card number and 4-digit PIN. The automated system will then state your current SNAP and cash benefit totals.

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 your EBT benefits to arrive later than expected.

Statewide Technology Disruptions

Technical failures can bring the entire system to a halt, affecting the South Carolina SNAP payment schedule. A severed fiber-optic line recently stalled all benefit processing. The state’s aging mainframe also regularly slows or crashes under heavy use, delaying deposits for many households.

Heavy Caseloads and Staffing Shortages

Staffing issues at the Department of Social Services can also lead to delays. When caseworkers are responsible for over a thousand cases each, they struggle to complete approvals on time. This backlog can push your monthly issuance past its normal date on the EBT payment schedule.

Seasonal Surges or Economic Downturns

An increase in applications can overwhelm the system and cause delays for everyone. A spike in new or replacement benefit requests expands the verification queue. As a result, even routine SNAP and TANF payments may post later than the usual SNAP payment dates.

Administrative or Eligibility Snags

Incomplete applications or recertifications often keep a case in a "pending" status. Missing signatures, pay stubs, or unverified address changes will stop issuance. Deposits only resume after the household submits the needed proof and a worker finalizes the update.

Do EBT Benefits Expire or Roll Over?

Unused EBT benefits in South Carolina do not disappear at the end of the month. The funds remain in your account, but the rules for keeping food and cash assistance are different.

Your food assistance balance rolls over each month. However, you must use your card for a purchase or balance inquiry at least once every nine months. If your account is inactive for that long, the state will permanently remove any remaining SNAP dollars after a final notice period.

Cash assistance from the TANF program also carries over month to month. These funds do not have a state-mandated expiration date and will stay on your card until you spend or withdraw them. Standard card dormancy fees may apply after extended periods of no use.

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

Running out of EBT funds before the end of the month is a stressful and surprisingly common situation. While it can feel discouraging, you are not without support or resources to bridge the gap. Several practical strategies can help you secure food until your next benefits arrive.

Apply for Expedited (Emergency) SNAP

If you're in a tight spot, you may qualify for emergency SNAP benefits. South Carolina offers this fast-track processing if your household meets one of the following criteria:

Your gross monthly income is under $150 and you have less than $100 in liquid resources.
Your income plus cash on hand is less than your rent or mortgage and utilities.
You are a migrant or seasonal farmworker with under $100 in liquid resources.

To apply, submit a new SNAP application and write “EXPEDITED PROCESSING” at the top. Filing online through the Apply for Benefits portal or at a DSS office can trigger a review within seven days.

Follow up to ensure your request is flagged correctly. You can call the DSS Connect Call Center (1-800-616-1309) or get help from SC Thrive counselors (1-800-726-8774) to upload any required documents.

Before ending the call, ask for a confirmation number. This step protects your application date for retroactive benefits if there are delays past your expected SNAP deposit dates.

Reevaluate Your Benefit Calculation

If your financial situation has changed recently, your benefit amount might need an update. Reporting a drop in income or an increase in expenses can lead to a higher monthly allotment.

Gather proof like new pay stubs or higher bills and report the change on the state’s Report a SNAP/TANF Change page. This allows DSS to adjust your next payment instead of waiting for recertification.

You can also use the portal to request a “fair hearing” if you think your original calculation missed allowable deductions. These can include costs for utilities, child support, dependent care, or medical expenses for elderly or disabled household members.

Check the portal for a “pending verification” flag within ten days. Promptly uploading any extra documents helps prevent interruptions to your EBT payment schedule.

Stretch Groceries Without Spending SNAP Dollars

When your balance is low, several statewide programs can provide free produce and meals to supplement your groceries. These resources can help you get by until the next EBT deposit dates.

Dial 211 or use the SC 211 search tool to find a nearby food pantry, community meal, or mobile market. Many only require an ID and allow weekly visits.
Register for a weekend gleaning event with the Society of St. Andrew. Volunteers help harvest surplus farm crops and can take home a share of fresh produce.

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, Walmart, Kroger, and Costco. This feature helps you know your exact balance without a phone call, which is useful as you wait for the next SNAP deposit dates.

To start, link your EBT card to the app. After a purchase, scan your receipt to receive cash back on SNAP-eligible items. This process helps you stretch your budget and better prepare for the monthly SNAP payment dates.

This tool can help you better manage your funds around the South Carolina EBT payment schedule. When you know your balance and what you spend, it is easier to make your benefits last.

Download Benny to take control of your spend and get more from your EBT benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

SHARE

Knowing your EBT payment schedule in South Carolina is a game-changer for managing your monthly budget. It helps you plan your grocery trips and avoid the stress of wondering when your benefits will arrive.

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

Monthly EBT Deposit Schedule in South Carolina

In South Carolina, your SNAP benefits deposit date is determined by the last digit of your case number. Most households follow a staggered schedule, which applies to anyone who began receiving benefits on or after September 1, 2012.

Here is a breakdown of those specific SNAP deposit dates:

2nd of the month: Case numbers ending in 2
4th of the month: Case numbers ending in 4
6th of the month: Case numbers ending in 6
8th of the month: Case numbers ending in 8
10th of the month: Case numbers ending in 0
11th of the month: Case numbers ending in 1
13th of the month: Case numbers ending in 3
15th of the month: Case numbers ending in 5
17th of the month: Case numbers ending in 7
19th of the month: Case numbers ending in 9

A smaller group of households that has received SNAP continuously since before September 1, 2012, follows an older EBT payment schedule from the 1st to the 10th of the month. For those receiving Family Independence (TANF), cash benefits are always deposited on the 1st of each month.

How to Find Your Case Number

Knowing your case number is necessary to determine your place in the SNAP payment schedule. If you have misplaced it or do not have it memorized, you can retrieve it in a few ways.

Check the upper-right corner of any notice you have received from the Department of Social Services (DSS).
Sign in to your online Benefits Portal account dashboard.
Call the EBT Customer Service line at 1-800-554-5268.

How to Check Your EBT Deposit Status in South Carolina

You can confirm your deposit has arrived in a few different ways. For a complete list of options, our guide on how to check your EBT balance in South Carolina has all the details.

To see your balance after your designated SNAP deposit dates, here are three of the most convenient methods:

Download the Benny app and link your EBT card. The app shows your real-time SNAP and cash balances on the home screen. It also provides access to cashback at many stores when you make eligible EBT purchases.
Visit the official ConnectEBT website. After you log in with your User ID and password, the main page shows your available SNAP and cash balances. First-time users must register their card before they can sign in to the portal.
Call the 24-hour EBT Customer Service line at 1-800-554-5268. Follow the prompts to enter your 16-digit EBT card number and 4-digit PIN. The automated system will then state your current SNAP and cash benefit totals.

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 your EBT benefits to arrive later than expected.

Statewide Technology Disruptions

Technical failures can bring the entire system to a halt, affecting the South Carolina SNAP payment schedule. A severed fiber-optic line recently stalled all benefit processing. The state’s aging mainframe also regularly slows or crashes under heavy use, delaying deposits for many households.

Heavy Caseloads and Staffing Shortages

Staffing issues at the Department of Social Services can also lead to delays. When caseworkers are responsible for over a thousand cases each, they struggle to complete approvals on time. This backlog can push your monthly issuance past its normal date on the EBT payment schedule.

Seasonal Surges or Economic Downturns

An increase in applications can overwhelm the system and cause delays for everyone. A spike in new or replacement benefit requests expands the verification queue. As a result, even routine SNAP and TANF payments may post later than the usual SNAP payment dates.

Administrative or Eligibility Snags

Incomplete applications or recertifications often keep a case in a "pending" status. Missing signatures, pay stubs, or unverified address changes will stop issuance. Deposits only resume after the household submits the needed proof and a worker finalizes the update.

Do EBT Benefits Expire or Roll Over?

Unused EBT benefits in South Carolina do not disappear at the end of the month. The funds remain in your account, but the rules for keeping food and cash assistance are different.

Your food assistance balance rolls over each month. However, you must use your card for a purchase or balance inquiry at least once every nine months. If your account is inactive for that long, the state will permanently remove any remaining SNAP dollars after a final notice period.

Cash assistance from the TANF program also carries over month to month. These funds do not have a state-mandated expiration date and will stay on your card until you spend or withdraw them. Standard card dormancy fees may apply after extended periods of no use.

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

Running out of EBT funds before the end of the month is a stressful and surprisingly common situation. While it can feel discouraging, you are not without support or resources to bridge the gap. Several practical strategies can help you secure food until your next benefits arrive.

Apply for Expedited (Emergency) SNAP

If you're in a tight spot, you may qualify for emergency SNAP benefits. South Carolina offers this fast-track processing if your household meets one of the following criteria:

Your gross monthly income is under $150 and you have less than $100 in liquid resources.
Your income plus cash on hand is less than your rent or mortgage and utilities.
You are a migrant or seasonal farmworker with under $100 in liquid resources.

To apply, submit a new SNAP application and write “EXPEDITED PROCESSING” at the top. Filing online through the Apply for Benefits portal or at a DSS office can trigger a review within seven days.

Follow up to ensure your request is flagged correctly. You can call the DSS Connect Call Center (1-800-616-1309) or get help from SC Thrive counselors (1-800-726-8774) to upload any required documents.

Before ending the call, ask for a confirmation number. This step protects your application date for retroactive benefits if there are delays past your expected SNAP deposit dates.

Reevaluate Your Benefit Calculation

If your financial situation has changed recently, your benefit amount might need an update. Reporting a drop in income or an increase in expenses can lead to a higher monthly allotment.

Gather proof like new pay stubs or higher bills and report the change on the state’s Report a SNAP/TANF Change page. This allows DSS to adjust your next payment instead of waiting for recertification.

You can also use the portal to request a “fair hearing” if you think your original calculation missed allowable deductions. These can include costs for utilities, child support, dependent care, or medical expenses for elderly or disabled household members.

Check the portal for a “pending verification” flag within ten days. Promptly uploading any extra documents helps prevent interruptions to your EBT payment schedule.

Stretch Groceries Without Spending SNAP Dollars

When your balance is low, several statewide programs can provide free produce and meals to supplement your groceries. These resources can help you get by until the next EBT deposit dates.

Dial 211 or use the SC 211 search tool to find a nearby food pantry, community meal, or mobile market. Many only require an ID and allow weekly visits.
Register for a weekend gleaning event with the Society of St. Andrew. Volunteers help harvest surplus farm crops and can take home a share of fresh produce.

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, Walmart, Kroger, and Costco. This feature helps you know your exact balance without a phone call, which is useful as you wait for the next SNAP deposit dates.

To start, link your EBT card to the app. After a purchase, scan your receipt to receive cash back on SNAP-eligible items. This process helps you stretch your budget and better prepare for the monthly SNAP payment dates.

This tool can help you better manage your funds around the South Carolina EBT payment schedule. When you know your balance and what you spend, it is easier to make your benefits last.

Download Benny to take control of your spend and get more from your EBT benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

SHARE

Knowing your EBT payment schedule in South Carolina is a game-changer for managing your monthly budget. It helps you plan your grocery trips and avoid the stress of wondering when your benefits will arrive.

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

Monthly EBT Deposit Schedule in South Carolina

In South Carolina, your SNAP benefits deposit date is determined by the last digit of your case number. Most households follow a staggered schedule, which applies to anyone who began receiving benefits on or after September 1, 2012.

Here is a breakdown of those specific SNAP deposit dates:

2nd of the month: Case numbers ending in 2
4th of the month: Case numbers ending in 4
6th of the month: Case numbers ending in 6
8th of the month: Case numbers ending in 8
10th of the month: Case numbers ending in 0
11th of the month: Case numbers ending in 1
13th of the month: Case numbers ending in 3
15th of the month: Case numbers ending in 5
17th of the month: Case numbers ending in 7
19th of the month: Case numbers ending in 9

A smaller group of households that has received SNAP continuously since before September 1, 2012, follows an older EBT payment schedule from the 1st to the 10th of the month. For those receiving Family Independence (TANF), cash benefits are always deposited on the 1st of each month.

How to Find Your Case Number

Knowing your case number is necessary to determine your place in the SNAP payment schedule. If you have misplaced it or do not have it memorized, you can retrieve it in a few ways.

Check the upper-right corner of any notice you have received from the Department of Social Services (DSS).
Sign in to your online Benefits Portal account dashboard.
Call the EBT Customer Service line at 1-800-554-5268.

How to Check Your EBT Deposit Status in South Carolina

You can confirm your deposit has arrived in a few different ways. For a complete list of options, our guide on how to check your EBT balance in South Carolina has all the details.

To see your balance after your designated SNAP deposit dates, here are three of the most convenient methods:

Download the Benny app and link your EBT card. The app shows your real-time SNAP and cash balances on the home screen. It also provides access to cashback at many stores when you make eligible EBT purchases.
Visit the official ConnectEBT website. After you log in with your User ID and password, the main page shows your available SNAP and cash balances. First-time users must register their card before they can sign in to the portal.
Call the 24-hour EBT Customer Service line at 1-800-554-5268. Follow the prompts to enter your 16-digit EBT card number and 4-digit PIN. The automated system will then state your current SNAP and cash benefit totals.

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 your EBT benefits to arrive later than expected.

Statewide Technology Disruptions

Technical failures can bring the entire system to a halt, affecting the South Carolina SNAP payment schedule. A severed fiber-optic line recently stalled all benefit processing. The state’s aging mainframe also regularly slows or crashes under heavy use, delaying deposits for many households.

Heavy Caseloads and Staffing Shortages

Staffing issues at the Department of Social Services can also lead to delays. When caseworkers are responsible for over a thousand cases each, they struggle to complete approvals on time. This backlog can push your monthly issuance past its normal date on the EBT payment schedule.

Seasonal Surges or Economic Downturns

An increase in applications can overwhelm the system and cause delays for everyone. A spike in new or replacement benefit requests expands the verification queue. As a result, even routine SNAP and TANF payments may post later than the usual SNAP payment dates.

Administrative or Eligibility Snags

Incomplete applications or recertifications often keep a case in a "pending" status. Missing signatures, pay stubs, or unverified address changes will stop issuance. Deposits only resume after the household submits the needed proof and a worker finalizes the update.

Do EBT Benefits Expire or Roll Over?

Unused EBT benefits in South Carolina do not disappear at the end of the month. The funds remain in your account, but the rules for keeping food and cash assistance are different.

Your food assistance balance rolls over each month. However, you must use your card for a purchase or balance inquiry at least once every nine months. If your account is inactive for that long, the state will permanently remove any remaining SNAP dollars after a final notice period.

Cash assistance from the TANF program also carries over month to month. These funds do not have a state-mandated expiration date and will stay on your card until you spend or withdraw them. Standard card dormancy fees may apply after extended periods of no use.

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

Running out of EBT funds before the end of the month is a stressful and surprisingly common situation. While it can feel discouraging, you are not without support or resources to bridge the gap. Several practical strategies can help you secure food until your next benefits arrive.

Apply for Expedited (Emergency) SNAP

If you're in a tight spot, you may qualify for emergency SNAP benefits. South Carolina offers this fast-track processing if your household meets one of the following criteria:

Your gross monthly income is under $150 and you have less than $100 in liquid resources.
Your income plus cash on hand is less than your rent or mortgage and utilities.
You are a migrant or seasonal farmworker with under $100 in liquid resources.

To apply, submit a new SNAP application and write “EXPEDITED PROCESSING” at the top. Filing online through the Apply for Benefits portal or at a DSS office can trigger a review within seven days.

Follow up to ensure your request is flagged correctly. You can call the DSS Connect Call Center (1-800-616-1309) or get help from SC Thrive counselors (1-800-726-8774) to upload any required documents.

Before ending the call, ask for a confirmation number. This step protects your application date for retroactive benefits if there are delays past your expected SNAP deposit dates.

Reevaluate Your Benefit Calculation

If your financial situation has changed recently, your benefit amount might need an update. Reporting a drop in income or an increase in expenses can lead to a higher monthly allotment.

Gather proof like new pay stubs or higher bills and report the change on the state’s Report a SNAP/TANF Change page. This allows DSS to adjust your next payment instead of waiting for recertification.

You can also use the portal to request a “fair hearing” if you think your original calculation missed allowable deductions. These can include costs for utilities, child support, dependent care, or medical expenses for elderly or disabled household members.

Check the portal for a “pending verification” flag within ten days. Promptly uploading any extra documents helps prevent interruptions to your EBT payment schedule.

Stretch Groceries Without Spending SNAP Dollars

When your balance is low, several statewide programs can provide free produce and meals to supplement your groceries. These resources can help you get by until the next EBT deposit dates.

Dial 211 or use the SC 211 search tool to find a nearby food pantry, community meal, or mobile market. Many only require an ID and allow weekly visits.
Register for a weekend gleaning event with the Society of St. Andrew. Volunteers help harvest surplus farm crops and can take home a share of fresh produce.

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, Walmart, Kroger, and Costco. This feature helps you know your exact balance without a phone call, which is useful as you wait for the next SNAP deposit dates.

To start, link your EBT card to the app. After a purchase, scan your receipt to receive cash back on SNAP-eligible items. This process helps you stretch your budget and better prepare for the monthly SNAP payment dates.

This tool can help you better manage your funds around the South Carolina EBT payment schedule. When you know your balance and what you spend, it is easier to make your benefits last.

Download Benny to take control of your spend and get more from your EBT benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

SHARE

Knowing your EBT payment schedule in South Carolina is a game-changer for managing your monthly budget. It helps you plan your grocery trips and avoid the stress of wondering when your benefits will arrive.

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

Monthly EBT Deposit Schedule in South Carolina

In South Carolina, your SNAP benefits deposit date is determined by the last digit of your case number. Most households follow a staggered schedule, which applies to anyone who began receiving benefits on or after September 1, 2012.

Here is a breakdown of those specific SNAP deposit dates:

2nd of the month: Case numbers ending in 2
4th of the month: Case numbers ending in 4
6th of the month: Case numbers ending in 6
8th of the month: Case numbers ending in 8
10th of the month: Case numbers ending in 0
11th of the month: Case numbers ending in 1
13th of the month: Case numbers ending in 3
15th of the month: Case numbers ending in 5
17th of the month: Case numbers ending in 7
19th of the month: Case numbers ending in 9

A smaller group of households that has received SNAP continuously since before September 1, 2012, follows an older EBT payment schedule from the 1st to the 10th of the month. For those receiving Family Independence (TANF), cash benefits are always deposited on the 1st of each month.

How to Find Your Case Number

Knowing your case number is necessary to determine your place in the SNAP payment schedule. If you have misplaced it or do not have it memorized, you can retrieve it in a few ways.

Check the upper-right corner of any notice you have received from the Department of Social Services (DSS).
Sign in to your online Benefits Portal account dashboard.
Call the EBT Customer Service line at 1-800-554-5268.

How to Check Your EBT Deposit Status in South Carolina

You can confirm your deposit has arrived in a few different ways. For a complete list of options, our guide on how to check your EBT balance in South Carolina has all the details.

To see your balance after your designated SNAP deposit dates, here are three of the most convenient methods:

Download the Benny app and link your EBT card. The app shows your real-time SNAP and cash balances on the home screen. It also provides access to cashback at many stores when you make eligible EBT purchases.
Visit the official ConnectEBT website. After you log in with your User ID and password, the main page shows your available SNAP and cash balances. First-time users must register their card before they can sign in to the portal.
Call the 24-hour EBT Customer Service line at 1-800-554-5268. Follow the prompts to enter your 16-digit EBT card number and 4-digit PIN. The automated system will then state your current SNAP and cash benefit totals.

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 your EBT benefits to arrive later than expected.

Statewide Technology Disruptions

Technical failures can bring the entire system to a halt, affecting the South Carolina SNAP payment schedule. A severed fiber-optic line recently stalled all benefit processing. The state’s aging mainframe also regularly slows or crashes under heavy use, delaying deposits for many households.

Heavy Caseloads and Staffing Shortages

Staffing issues at the Department of Social Services can also lead to delays. When caseworkers are responsible for over a thousand cases each, they struggle to complete approvals on time. This backlog can push your monthly issuance past its normal date on the EBT payment schedule.

Seasonal Surges or Economic Downturns

An increase in applications can overwhelm the system and cause delays for everyone. A spike in new or replacement benefit requests expands the verification queue. As a result, even routine SNAP and TANF payments may post later than the usual SNAP payment dates.

Administrative or Eligibility Snags

Incomplete applications or recertifications often keep a case in a "pending" status. Missing signatures, pay stubs, or unverified address changes will stop issuance. Deposits only resume after the household submits the needed proof and a worker finalizes the update.

Do EBT Benefits Expire or Roll Over?

Unused EBT benefits in South Carolina do not disappear at the end of the month. The funds remain in your account, but the rules for keeping food and cash assistance are different.

Your food assistance balance rolls over each month. However, you must use your card for a purchase or balance inquiry at least once every nine months. If your account is inactive for that long, the state will permanently remove any remaining SNAP dollars after a final notice period.

Cash assistance from the TANF program also carries over month to month. These funds do not have a state-mandated expiration date and will stay on your card until you spend or withdraw them. Standard card dormancy fees may apply after extended periods of no use.

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

Running out of EBT funds before the end of the month is a stressful and surprisingly common situation. While it can feel discouraging, you are not without support or resources to bridge the gap. Several practical strategies can help you secure food until your next benefits arrive.

Apply for Expedited (Emergency) SNAP

If you're in a tight spot, you may qualify for emergency SNAP benefits. South Carolina offers this fast-track processing if your household meets one of the following criteria:

Your gross monthly income is under $150 and you have less than $100 in liquid resources.
Your income plus cash on hand is less than your rent or mortgage and utilities.
You are a migrant or seasonal farmworker with under $100 in liquid resources.

To apply, submit a new SNAP application and write “EXPEDITED PROCESSING” at the top. Filing online through the Apply for Benefits portal or at a DSS office can trigger a review within seven days.

Follow up to ensure your request is flagged correctly. You can call the DSS Connect Call Center (1-800-616-1309) or get help from SC Thrive counselors (1-800-726-8774) to upload any required documents.

Before ending the call, ask for a confirmation number. This step protects your application date for retroactive benefits if there are delays past your expected SNAP deposit dates.

Reevaluate Your Benefit Calculation

If your financial situation has changed recently, your benefit amount might need an update. Reporting a drop in income or an increase in expenses can lead to a higher monthly allotment.

Gather proof like new pay stubs or higher bills and report the change on the state’s Report a SNAP/TANF Change page. This allows DSS to adjust your next payment instead of waiting for recertification.

You can also use the portal to request a “fair hearing” if you think your original calculation missed allowable deductions. These can include costs for utilities, child support, dependent care, or medical expenses for elderly or disabled household members.

Check the portal for a “pending verification” flag within ten days. Promptly uploading any extra documents helps prevent interruptions to your EBT payment schedule.

Stretch Groceries Without Spending SNAP Dollars

When your balance is low, several statewide programs can provide free produce and meals to supplement your groceries. These resources can help you get by until the next EBT deposit dates.

Dial 211 or use the SC 211 search tool to find a nearby food pantry, community meal, or mobile market. Many only require an ID and allow weekly visits.
Register for a weekend gleaning event with the Society of St. Andrew. Volunteers help harvest surplus farm crops and can take home a share of fresh produce.

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, Walmart, Kroger, and Costco. This feature helps you know your exact balance without a phone call, which is useful as you wait for the next SNAP deposit dates.

To start, link your EBT card to the app. After a purchase, scan your receipt to receive cash back on SNAP-eligible items. This process helps you stretch your budget and better prepare for the monthly SNAP payment dates.

This tool can help you better manage your funds around the South Carolina EBT payment schedule. When you know your balance and what you spend, it is easier to make your benefits last.

Download Benny to take control of your spend and get more from your EBT benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Knowing your EBT payment schedule in South Carolina is a game-changer for managing your monthly budget. It helps you plan your grocery trips and avoid the stress of wondering when your benefits will arrive.

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

Monthly EBT Deposit Schedule in South Carolina

In South Carolina, your SNAP benefits deposit date is determined by the last digit of your case number. Most households follow a staggered schedule, which applies to anyone who began receiving benefits on or after September 1, 2012.

Here is a breakdown of those specific SNAP deposit dates:

2nd of the month: Case numbers ending in 2
4th of the month: Case numbers ending in 4
6th of the month: Case numbers ending in 6
8th of the month: Case numbers ending in 8
10th of the month: Case numbers ending in 0
11th of the month: Case numbers ending in 1
13th of the month: Case numbers ending in 3
15th of the month: Case numbers ending in 5
17th of the month: Case numbers ending in 7
19th of the month: Case numbers ending in 9

A smaller group of households that has received SNAP continuously since before September 1, 2012, follows an older EBT payment schedule from the 1st to the 10th of the month. For those receiving Family Independence (TANF), cash benefits are always deposited on the 1st of each month.

How to Find Your Case Number

Knowing your case number is necessary to determine your place in the SNAP payment schedule. If you have misplaced it or do not have it memorized, you can retrieve it in a few ways.

Check the upper-right corner of any notice you have received from the Department of Social Services (DSS).
Sign in to your online Benefits Portal account dashboard.
Call the EBT Customer Service line at 1-800-554-5268.

How to Check Your EBT Deposit Status in South Carolina

You can confirm your deposit has arrived in a few different ways. For a complete list of options, our guide on how to check your EBT balance in South Carolina has all the details.

To see your balance after your designated SNAP deposit dates, here are three of the most convenient methods:

Download the Benny app and link your EBT card. The app shows your real-time SNAP and cash balances on the home screen. It also provides access to cashback at many stores when you make eligible EBT purchases.
Visit the official ConnectEBT website. After you log in with your User ID and password, the main page shows your available SNAP and cash balances. First-time users must register their card before they can sign in to the portal.
Call the 24-hour EBT Customer Service line at 1-800-554-5268. Follow the prompts to enter your 16-digit EBT card number and 4-digit PIN. The automated system will then state your current SNAP and cash benefit totals.

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Earn 1-3% cash back on SNAP and track your EBT balance
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Why Your EBT Deposit Might Be Late and What to Do

Several factors can cause your EBT benefits to arrive later than expected.

Statewide Technology Disruptions

Technical failures can bring the entire system to a halt, affecting the South Carolina SNAP payment schedule. A severed fiber-optic line recently stalled all benefit processing. The state’s aging mainframe also regularly slows or crashes under heavy use, delaying deposits for many households.

Heavy Caseloads and Staffing Shortages

Staffing issues at the Department of Social Services can also lead to delays. When caseworkers are responsible for over a thousand cases each, they struggle to complete approvals on time. This backlog can push your monthly issuance past its normal date on the EBT payment schedule.

Seasonal Surges or Economic Downturns

An increase in applications can overwhelm the system and cause delays for everyone. A spike in new or replacement benefit requests expands the verification queue. As a result, even routine SNAP and TANF payments may post later than the usual SNAP payment dates.

Administrative or Eligibility Snags

Incomplete applications or recertifications often keep a case in a "pending" status. Missing signatures, pay stubs, or unverified address changes will stop issuance. Deposits only resume after the household submits the needed proof and a worker finalizes the update.

Do EBT Benefits Expire or Roll Over?

Unused EBT benefits in South Carolina do not disappear at the end of the month. The funds remain in your account, but the rules for keeping food and cash assistance are different.

Your food assistance balance rolls over each month. However, you must use your card for a purchase or balance inquiry at least once every nine months. If your account is inactive for that long, the state will permanently remove any remaining SNAP dollars after a final notice period.

Cash assistance from the TANF program also carries over month to month. These funds do not have a state-mandated expiration date and will stay on your card until you spend or withdraw them. Standard card dormancy fees may apply after extended periods of no use.

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

Running out of EBT funds before the end of the month is a stressful and surprisingly common situation. While it can feel discouraging, you are not without support or resources to bridge the gap. Several practical strategies can help you secure food until your next benefits arrive.

Apply for Expedited (Emergency) SNAP

If you're in a tight spot, you may qualify for emergency SNAP benefits. South Carolina offers this fast-track processing if your household meets one of the following criteria:

Your gross monthly income is under $150 and you have less than $100 in liquid resources.
Your income plus cash on hand is less than your rent or mortgage and utilities.
You are a migrant or seasonal farmworker with under $100 in liquid resources.

To apply, submit a new SNAP application and write “EXPEDITED PROCESSING” at the top. Filing online through the Apply for Benefits portal or at a DSS office can trigger a review within seven days.

Follow up to ensure your request is flagged correctly. You can call the DSS Connect Call Center (1-800-616-1309) or get help from SC Thrive counselors (1-800-726-8774) to upload any required documents.

Before ending the call, ask for a confirmation number. This step protects your application date for retroactive benefits if there are delays past your expected SNAP deposit dates.

Reevaluate Your Benefit Calculation

If your financial situation has changed recently, your benefit amount might need an update. Reporting a drop in income or an increase in expenses can lead to a higher monthly allotment.

Gather proof like new pay stubs or higher bills and report the change on the state’s Report a SNAP/TANF Change page. This allows DSS to adjust your next payment instead of waiting for recertification.

You can also use the portal to request a “fair hearing” if you think your original calculation missed allowable deductions. These can include costs for utilities, child support, dependent care, or medical expenses for elderly or disabled household members.

Check the portal for a “pending verification” flag within ten days. Promptly uploading any extra documents helps prevent interruptions to your EBT payment schedule.

Stretch Groceries Without Spending SNAP Dollars

When your balance is low, several statewide programs can provide free produce and meals to supplement your groceries. These resources can help you get by until the next EBT deposit dates.

Dial 211 or use the SC 211 search tool to find a nearby food pantry, community meal, or mobile market. Many only require an ID and allow weekly visits.
Register for a weekend gleaning event with the Society of St. Andrew. Volunteers help harvest surplus farm crops and can take home a share of fresh produce.

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, Walmart, Kroger, and Costco. This feature helps you know your exact balance without a phone call, which is useful as you wait for the next SNAP deposit dates.

To start, link your EBT card to the app. After a purchase, scan your receipt to receive cash back on SNAP-eligible items. This process helps you stretch your budget and better prepare for the monthly SNAP payment dates.

This tool can help you better manage your funds around the South Carolina EBT payment schedule. When you know your balance and what you spend, it is easier to make your benefits last.

Download Benny to take control of your spend and get more from your EBT benefits.