EBT Guides
Mar 19, 2025
Effectively managing your EBT balance is important for budgeting and avoiding shortages. It ensures you can make the most of your benefits and maintain financial stability.
In this guide, we'll show you how to check your EBT balance and share practical ways to maximize your benefits in Illinois.
5 Ways to Check Your EBT Balance
There are five main ways Illinois residents can check their EBT balance:
On the Illinois Link Card website
Using the Benny app
By contacting Illinois EBT customer service
At an ATM
From the last receipt
1) On the Illinois SNAP Portal
To check your EBT balance online in Illinois, follow these steps:
Visit the Illinois Link Card website.
Access the balance inquiry section.
Review your current EBT balance displayed on the screen.
2) Using the Benny App
Benny is a free mobile app that allows you to check your EBT balance and transactions in real time by linking your EBT card to the app. With Benny, you can also get cashback on groceries and other purchases, including at stores like Dollar Tree, Target, Walmart, and many others. The app is completely free to use with no hidden fees.
Download the Benny app to make managing your EBT benefits easier and more efficient.
3) By Contacting Illinois EBT Customer Service
To check your EBT balance by phone, call the Illinois EBT customer service number at 1-800-678-5465. Have your EBT card ready when you call. This service is usually available 24/7, making it convenient to check your balance at any time.
4) At an ATM
You can also check your current EBT balance directly at an ATM.
Select "Balance Inquiry": After inserting your EBT card and entering your PIN, choose the "Balance Inquiry" option from the menu.
Review the Balance: The ATM will display your current EBT balance on the screen.
Print the Receipt: If available, print a receipt for your records, which will also show your EBT balance.
5) From Your Last Receipt
You can also find your EBT balance on your most recent purchase receipt. The balance is usually printed at the bottom of the receipt after an EBT transaction. It may appear as “EBT Food Balance” and/or “EBT Cash Balance.”
How to Make Your EBT Benefits Last the Whole Month
Smart planning and intentional spending are fundamental to making your EBT benefits last throughout the month. By adopting practical strategies, you can stretch your budget and avoid running out of funds before your next deposit.
Check Your Balance Before Grocery Runs
Knowing your EBT balance before shopping helps avoid declined transactions and makes the experience less stressful. Setting a spending limit based on your balance can help stretch your benefits throughout the month, ensuring you have enough funds for essential purchases.
Buy in Bulk When Possible
Buying non-perishable food items in bulk can help save money due to lower unit prices. For example, purchasing rice, beans, and pasta in larger quantities often costs less per unit than smaller packages. Consider shopping at warehouse clubs or bulk sections to maximize savings and ensure you have essential items on hand throughout the month.
Use Coupons and Cashback Opportunities
Coupons can be a great way to save on groceries with EBT. Look for digital or paper coupons that apply to SNAP-eligible items to reduce your overall spending.
Another way to save is through cashback opportunities. Benny helps you earn cash back on SNAP-eligible items at popular stores like Walmart, Target, Dollar Tree, and Amazon Fresh, as well as services like Lyft and Instacart.
Plan Meals Ahead
Meal planning helps EBT users save money and avoid impulse purchases by creating a focused shopping list. Use versatile ingredients, batch cook, and repurpose leftovers to maximize your budget. Planning meals ahead ensures you buy only what you need, reducing waste and unnecessary spending.
What to Do if Your Balance Runs Out Early
Running out of EBT benefits early in the month can be a stressful experience, but it's important to remember that you're not alone. Fortunately, local resources like food banks and community programs are available to help bridge the gap and ensure you have access to essential items.
Find Local Food Pantries or Nonprofits
When your EBT benefits run low, consider these emergency food assistance options:
Contact Feeding America Affiliates: These organizations partner with local food banks to provide emergency food assistance and support.
Visit Local Churches: Many churches offer food pantries and meal programs to help those in need.
Check Illinois Community Centers: Community centers often have food distribution programs and can connect you with additional resources.
Reach Out to State Benefit Offices: State offices can provide information on emergency assistance programs and additional benefits you may qualify for.
Check if Emergency EBT Is Available
If you are facing immediate hardship, emergency EBT benefits may be available. Follow these steps to apply:
Visit the Illinois Link Card website to start your application.
Submit required documents, such as proof of income and identification, to verify your eligibility.
If eligible, benefits may be provided within seven days to help you through your emergency.
Request EBT Benefits Reassessment
If your financial situation changes, you can request a reassessment of your EBT benefits in Illinois:
Gather documentation such as recent pay stubs, rent receipts, and utility bills to demonstrate your current financial status.
Contact the Illinois EBT hotline at 1-800-678-5465 to discuss your situation and request a reassessment.
Visit the Illinois Link Card website to find detailed information on reassessment guidelines and required documents.
For the most current information on reassessment guidelines, contact the Illinois EBT hotline or visit the Illinois Link Card website.
Track Your EBT Balance with Benny
With the Benny app, you can monitor your EBT balance and spending in real time, and earn cash back on groceries at stores like Target, Walmart, Costco, and more. Just connect your EBT card and activate offers to start saving.
Download Benny to track your EBT spending and access cash back in stores where you already shop.
