EBT Guides
Mar 19, 2025
Effectively managing your EBT balance can significantly enhance your budgeting efforts and help you avoid running out of benefits. This practice ensures you make the most of your resources throughout the month.
In this guide, we will show you how to check your EBT balance and share some practical ways to maximize your benefits in Indiana.
5 Ways to Check Your EBT Balance
There are five main ways Indiana residents can check their EBT balance:
On the Indiana SNAP official website
Using the Benny app
By contacting Indiana EBT customer service
At an ATM
From the last receipt
1) On the Indiana SNAP Portal
To check your EBT balance online in Indiana, follow these steps:
Visit the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) SNAP portal.
Navigate to the section where you can view your EBT balance.
Review your current balance and recent transactions.
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 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 start managing your EBT benefits more effectively.
3) By Contacting Indiana EBT Customer Service
To check your EBT balance by phone, call the Indiana EBT customer service number at 1-877-768-5098. Make sure to have your EBT card ready when you call. This service is usually available 24/7, allowing you 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, opt to print a receipt for your records.
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 benefits 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 for all your needs.
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 a steady supply of essentials.
Use Coupons and Cashback Opportunities
Coupons can be a great way to save money on groceries with EBT. Look for digital or paper coupons from your favorite stores and manufacturers 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 stretch your budget. Planning meals ahead ensures you buy only what you need, reducing waste and making the most of your benefits.
What to Do if Your Balance Runs Out Early
Running out of EBT benefits early in the month can be a daunting experience, but it's important to remember that you are not alone. Fortunately, local resources like food banks and community programs are available to provide support and help bridge the gap until your next deposit.
Find Local Food Pantries or Nonprofits
When your EBT benefits run low, several resources can provide emergency food assistance:
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 Indiana Community Centers: Community centers often have food distribution programs and can connect you with additional resources.
Reach Out to State Benefit Offices: Indiana's Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) can provide information on additional assistance programs and resources.
Check if Emergency EBT Is Available
If you are facing immediate hardship, emergency EBT benefits may be available. Follow these steps to apply:
Check Eligibility: Visit the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) SNAP portal to see if you qualify for emergency benefits.
Submit Required Documents: Gather proof of identity, residency, and income, and submit them through the FSSA SNAP portal.
Receive Benefits: If eligible, emergency benefits may be provided within seven days of your application.
Request EBT Benefits Reassessment
If your financial situation changes, you can request a reassessment of your EBT benefits in Indiana:
Review Eligibility: Check the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) SNAP portal to see if you qualify for a reassessment.
Gather Documentation: Collect proof of your current financial situation, including income, expenses, and any changes in household size.
Contact FSSA: Reach out to the Indiana EBT hotline at 1-877-768-5098 or visit the FSSA SNAP portal for the most current reassessment guidelines.
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.
