What to Do if Your EBT Balance Runs Out Early

Running out of EBT benefits before the end of the month is a stressful and surprisingly common situation. The gap between today and your next deposit can feel daunting, but you are not without support. Several immediate strategies can help you put food on the table while you wait for your next benefits to arrive.

Apply for Emergency SNAP and a Higher Allotment

If a change in your circumstances—like a job loss, disability, or higher rent—left you short, you may qualify for emergency SNAP. This can also be an opportunity to have your case re-evaluated for a higher monthly amount, which can help you better manage your budget between your regular Virginia SNAP payment dates.

• Gather proof of the change, such as a reduced-hours pay stub, a layoff letter, a new rent bill, or receipts for out-of-pocket medical costs over $35 for eligible household members.

• Start a new application or “Report a Change” via CommonHelp, checking the box for “Emergency/Expedited SNAP.” You can also contact your local Social Services office by phone or in person.

• Complete a same-day interview. If your household meets certain income and resource limits, the agency must issue benefits within seven calendar days.

• During your contact, request a mid-certification review. Submitting your new proofs could raise your regular deposits starting with the next cycle, adjusting your EBT payment schedule.

Volunteer at a Gleaning Event for Free Produce

Gleaning is an old practice of collecting leftover crops from fields after a harvest. The Society of St. Andrew organizes events where volunteers can legally glean produce and take a share home for free. This can be a great way to get fresh fruits and vegetables, especially if your SNAP deposit dates are still far off.

• Go to the End Hunger Virginia website, click “Volunteer,” and enter your ZIP code. You will receive an email or text alert about events near you, usually 24-48 hours in advance.

• Arrive at the designated farm or market for a two- to three-hour shift. Staff will provide instructions on what to harvest.

• At the end of the shift, volunteers are encouraged to take home a reasonable amount of produce for their own use. This can often be several bags of fresh food.

This program is a significant source of fresh food. In the first half of 2024, volunteers helped glean over 440,000 pounds of produce across the state.

Map Out Free-Meal and Pantry Days

Local food pantries and community meal sites are another resource to bridge the gap until your next benefits arrive. Planning your visits can help you avoid a wasted trip and keep food in the house. This is a good tactic to use when your EBT deposit dates are not for a while.

• Use the statewide locator at 211Virginia.org or the Virginia food bank network map at vafoodbanks.org. Enter your ZIP code and filter for “food pantry,” “community meal,” or “drive-thru distribution.”

• Click on each listing to check its service days and any documentation rules. It is a good idea to call sites the night before to confirm hours and availability.

• If a pantry uses appointment windows, ask if they can “pencil you in.” Many will hold a box for walk-ups who have called ahead.

Most pantries allow one visit every 7 to 14 days. By rotating between two different pantries and at least one hot-meal site each week, you can create a steady flow of groceries. This can help you manage until the next SNAP payment schedule begins.

Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny

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

This can help you stretch your budget between your Virginia SNAP payment dates. Download Benny to take control of your expenses and get more from your EBT benefits.