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 will show you how to check your EBT balance and share some practical ways to maximize your benefits in Iowa.
5 Ways to Check Your EBT Balance
There are five main ways Iowa residents can check their EBT balance:
On the Iowa SNAP official website
Using the Benny app
By contacting Iowa EBT customer service
At an ATM
From the last receipt
1) On the Iowa SNAP Portal
To check your EBT balance online in Iowa, follow these steps:
Visit the ConnectEBT website.
Navigate to the balance inquiry section.
Enter your EBT card number.
Review your current 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 start managing your EBT benefits more effectively.
3) By Contacting Iowa EBT Customer Service
To check your EBT balance by phone, call the Iowa EBT customer service number at 1-800-359-5802. Make sure to 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” from the available options on the ATM screen.
Enter your PIN when prompted to proceed with the balance inquiry.
View your balance displayed on the screen or printed on the receipt provided by the ATM.
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 the entire 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 can help EBT users save money and avoid impulse purchases by creating a focused shopping list. Use versatile ingredients, batch cook meals, and repurpose leftovers to stretch your budget. This approach ensures you buy only what you need, reducing waste and making your benefits last longer.
What to Do if Your Balance Runs Out Early
Running out of EBT benefits before the end of the month can be a stressful experience, but it's a common challenge that many face. Fortunately, local resources like food banks and community programs are available to provide support and ensure you have access to essential items.
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 Iowa 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
Emergency EBT benefits may be available for those facing immediate hardship. If eligible, benefits may be provided within seven days. Follow these steps to apply:
Visit the ConnectEBT website and log in to your account.
Complete the emergency benefits application form, providing details about your current situation.
Submit required documents, such as proof of income and identification, to expedite the process.
Request EBT Benefits Reassessment
If your financial situation changes, you can request a reassessment of your EBT benefits in Iowa:
Log in to your account on the ConnectEBT website and navigate to the reassessment section.
Complete the reassessment form, detailing your new financial circumstances.
Provide necessary documentation, such as recent pay stubs or proof of unemployment, to support your request.
Contact the Iowa EBT hotline or visit the ConnectEBT website for the most current information on 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.
