5 Ways to Check Your Louisiana EBT Balance

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Benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and EBT Cash, such as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), are provided on an EBT card. Regularly tracking your available funds is a smart way to manage your household budget and avoid running low when you need it most.

This guide covers how to check EBT balance in Louisiana, from using a mobile app to calling the EBT Customer Service line.

How to Check Your EBT Balance in Louisiana

You can check your EBT balance in several ways. These include logging into the online cardholder portal, using a mobile app on your smartphone, calling the 24/7 customer service hotline, making an inquiry at an ATM, or simply looking at your most recent grocery store receipt. Each method provides quick access to your current SNAP and EBT Cash funds.

1. Check Online via the Cardholder Portal

Accessing the official LifeInCheck EBT Cardholder Portal, linked from the Electronic Benefits Transfer page, gives you a real-time view of your benefits.

Go to lifeincheckebt.com and choose “Cardholder Login.”
First-time users should select “Create User ID” and register using your card number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your SSN. You will also set a username, password, and security questions.
Sign in and click “Account Balance” on the dashboard to see your current Food (SNAP) and EBT Cash balances, along with your next benefit availability date.
You can also press “Transaction History” to download or print past activity.

This online portal is a reliable way to check your Louisiana EBT balance from any computer.

2. Use the Benny App

Using the free Benny app on your smartphone is another convenient option for an EBT balance check in Louisiana.

Install Benny from the App Store or Google Play and tap “Get Started.”
Select your state, then enter your card number and the ZIP code associated with your benefits account.
Your home screen will immediately display your current SNAP and EBT Cash balances. You can swipe to see your next deposit date and recent transactions.

The app also provides cash-back opportunities on EBT purchases at many popular stores, including Costco, Walmart, Walgreens, and Trader Joe’s.

3. Call the Customer Service Hotline

Calling the automated phone line lets you hear your balance information any time of day.

Dial 1-888-997-1117 and choose your preferred language when prompted.
Select the balance-inquiry option and enter your 16-digit card number followed by your PIN.
An automated voice will read your SNAP balance first, then your EBT Cash balance. You can stay on the line to have the amounts repeated or to speak with a live agent.

Support is available in English, Spanish, Vietnamese, and Mandarin, with more details on language access available on the DCFS LaHelpU service-center page. This hotline is a straightforward method to check EBT balance in Louisiana.

4. Make an ATM Inquiry

Checking your EBT Cash balance can be done at any ATM that shows the Quest®, Cirrus®, or STAR® logo.

Use an ATM locator to find a surcharge-free machine near you.
Insert your EBT card, enter your PIN, and select the “Balance Inquiry” option, followed by “Checking.”
The screen will display your available EBT Cash balance, which will also be printed on your receipt.

Many ATMs only show your EBT Cash funds and not your SNAP balance. If this happens, you can check your SNAP funds by looking at your last store receipt or by using the Benny app.

5. Look at Your Last Store Receipt

Reviewing your most recent store receipt is a simple way to see your remaining funds after a transaction.

After completing a food or cash transaction, keep the receipt issued by the store.
Look for “EBT Food Bal” or “EBT Cash Bal” near the bottom to see your current balances.

Download Benny app 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

How Can I Keep My EBT Card Secure?

With phishing and smishing attacks on the rise across the state, thieves have more ways than ever to access your benefits. Recognizing the common scams is the first step toward protecting your account and acting quickly if you become a victim.

How EBT Benefits Are Stolen

Thieves use several methods to steal benefits. Card-skimming devices attached to payment terminals can clone your card's data, a significant threat in Louisiana. Another common tactic is "smishing," where fraudulent texts about a locked account trick you into clicking a link that steals your card number and PIN. These scams often create a false sense of urgency around an EBT balance check in Louisiana.

What To Do If Your Benefits Are Stolen

If your SNAP funds are stolen via skimming or phishing, federal law allows for replacement for incidents occurring after October 1, 2022. You must:

Report the theft to DCFS within 30 days of discovery.
Complete the required DCFS claim form.
Keep proof of the fraudulent transactions.

This replacement policy does not apply to EBT Cash benefits, but you should still report the fraud immediately.

Other Common Issues with EBT Cards and How to Resolve Them

Beyond security threats, you might run into other common problems with your EBT card. Knowing the right steps can help you resolve them quickly and access your benefits.

Card Never Arrives or Arrives Late

Your Purchase card is mailed separately from your approval letter, which can cause confusion. It typically takes three to five business days to arrive, but postal delays or an old address on file with the state of Louisiana can extend this timeline. You can find more details on the official EBT information page.

If it has been more than ten business days, call the LAHelpU Customer Service Center at 1-888-524-3578 to confirm your address and ask for a new card.
While you wait, you can monitor your case through the CAFÉ Self-Service Portal or the LifeInCheck app to see when your benefits are deposited.
Once your card arrives, sign the back and choose a secure PIN.

Forgotten, Blocked, or Rejected PIN

Entering the wrong PIN three times will freeze your card until midnight as a security measure. The system also rejects PINs that use easy-to-guess number patterns, like 1111 or your birth year, to protect your account.

You can reset your PIN immediately through the LifeInCheck app, on the LifeInCheckEBT.com website, or by calling the automated line at 1-888-997-1117.
If your account is frozen, you can either wait until after midnight for it to unlock automatically or use one of the reset methods right away.
Choose a PIN that doesn't follow a simple pattern and avoid writing it on your card. A quick check EBT balance in Louisiana after a reset can confirm it's working.

“Insufficient Funds” or Card Declined at Checkout

SNAP benefits are deposited once a month on a set date between the 1st and 14th. Trying to use your card before your deposit date will result in a decline. This can also happen if you select the wrong payment type or if your benefits have expired after nine months of inactivity.

Before shopping, perform an EBT balance check in Louisiana. You can use the LifeInCheck app, download the Benny app, call the number on your card, or check your last receipt.
Confirm your exact deposit date using the monthly benefit calendar in the LifeInCheck app. Knowing your schedule helps you check Louisiana EBT balance at the right time.
To keep your account active, make a small purchase every few months. Expired benefits cannot be re-added to your card.
Always choose “EBT-SNAP” at the payment terminal for food purchases.

Get 1-3% cash back on groceries and track your EBT Balance

Download the app

Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny

Benny is a free app that helps you get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, Costco, and others. It's also a simple way to check Louisiana EBT balance in real time. To get started, link your EBT card to the app. After you make a purchase, scan your receipt with Benny to receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.

Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

SHARE

Benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and EBT Cash, such as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), are provided on an EBT card. Regularly tracking your available funds is a smart way to manage your household budget and avoid running low when you need it most.

This guide covers how to check EBT balance in Louisiana, from using a mobile app to calling the EBT Customer Service line.

How to Check Your EBT Balance in Louisiana

You can check your EBT balance in several ways. These include logging into the online cardholder portal, using a mobile app on your smartphone, calling the 24/7 customer service hotline, making an inquiry at an ATM, or simply looking at your most recent grocery store receipt. Each method provides quick access to your current SNAP and EBT Cash funds.

1. Check Online via the Cardholder Portal

Accessing the official LifeInCheck EBT Cardholder Portal, linked from the Electronic Benefits Transfer page, gives you a real-time view of your benefits.

Go to lifeincheckebt.com and choose “Cardholder Login.”
First-time users should select “Create User ID” and register using your card number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your SSN. You will also set a username, password, and security questions.
Sign in and click “Account Balance” on the dashboard to see your current Food (SNAP) and EBT Cash balances, along with your next benefit availability date.
You can also press “Transaction History” to download or print past activity.

This online portal is a reliable way to check your Louisiana EBT balance from any computer.

2. Use the Benny App

Using the free Benny app on your smartphone is another convenient option for an EBT balance check in Louisiana.

Install Benny from the App Store or Google Play and tap “Get Started.”
Select your state, then enter your card number and the ZIP code associated with your benefits account.
Your home screen will immediately display your current SNAP and EBT Cash balances. You can swipe to see your next deposit date and recent transactions.

The app also provides cash-back opportunities on EBT purchases at many popular stores, including Costco, Walmart, Walgreens, and Trader Joe’s.

3. Call the Customer Service Hotline

Calling the automated phone line lets you hear your balance information any time of day.

Dial 1-888-997-1117 and choose your preferred language when prompted.
Select the balance-inquiry option and enter your 16-digit card number followed by your PIN.
An automated voice will read your SNAP balance first, then your EBT Cash balance. You can stay on the line to have the amounts repeated or to speak with a live agent.

Support is available in English, Spanish, Vietnamese, and Mandarin, with more details on language access available on the DCFS LaHelpU service-center page. This hotline is a straightforward method to check EBT balance in Louisiana.

4. Make an ATM Inquiry

Checking your EBT Cash balance can be done at any ATM that shows the Quest®, Cirrus®, or STAR® logo.

Use an ATM locator to find a surcharge-free machine near you.
Insert your EBT card, enter your PIN, and select the “Balance Inquiry” option, followed by “Checking.”
The screen will display your available EBT Cash balance, which will also be printed on your receipt.

Many ATMs only show your EBT Cash funds and not your SNAP balance. If this happens, you can check your SNAP funds by looking at your last store receipt or by using the Benny app.

5. Look at Your Last Store Receipt

Reviewing your most recent store receipt is a simple way to see your remaining funds after a transaction.

After completing a food or cash transaction, keep the receipt issued by the store.
Look for “EBT Food Bal” or “EBT Cash Bal” near the bottom to see your current balances.

Download Benny app 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

How Can I Keep My EBT Card Secure?

With phishing and smishing attacks on the rise across the state, thieves have more ways than ever to access your benefits. Recognizing the common scams is the first step toward protecting your account and acting quickly if you become a victim.

How EBT Benefits Are Stolen

Thieves use several methods to steal benefits. Card-skimming devices attached to payment terminals can clone your card's data, a significant threat in Louisiana. Another common tactic is "smishing," where fraudulent texts about a locked account trick you into clicking a link that steals your card number and PIN. These scams often create a false sense of urgency around an EBT balance check in Louisiana.

What To Do If Your Benefits Are Stolen

If your SNAP funds are stolen via skimming or phishing, federal law allows for replacement for incidents occurring after October 1, 2022. You must:

Report the theft to DCFS within 30 days of discovery.
Complete the required DCFS claim form.
Keep proof of the fraudulent transactions.

This replacement policy does not apply to EBT Cash benefits, but you should still report the fraud immediately.

Other Common Issues with EBT Cards and How to Resolve Them

Beyond security threats, you might run into other common problems with your EBT card. Knowing the right steps can help you resolve them quickly and access your benefits.

Card Never Arrives or Arrives Late

Your Purchase card is mailed separately from your approval letter, which can cause confusion. It typically takes three to five business days to arrive, but postal delays or an old address on file with the state of Louisiana can extend this timeline. You can find more details on the official EBT information page.

If it has been more than ten business days, call the LAHelpU Customer Service Center at 1-888-524-3578 to confirm your address and ask for a new card.
While you wait, you can monitor your case through the CAFÉ Self-Service Portal or the LifeInCheck app to see when your benefits are deposited.
Once your card arrives, sign the back and choose a secure PIN.

Forgotten, Blocked, or Rejected PIN

Entering the wrong PIN three times will freeze your card until midnight as a security measure. The system also rejects PINs that use easy-to-guess number patterns, like 1111 or your birth year, to protect your account.

You can reset your PIN immediately through the LifeInCheck app, on the LifeInCheckEBT.com website, or by calling the automated line at 1-888-997-1117.
If your account is frozen, you can either wait until after midnight for it to unlock automatically or use one of the reset methods right away.
Choose a PIN that doesn't follow a simple pattern and avoid writing it on your card. A quick check EBT balance in Louisiana after a reset can confirm it's working.

“Insufficient Funds” or Card Declined at Checkout

SNAP benefits are deposited once a month on a set date between the 1st and 14th. Trying to use your card before your deposit date will result in a decline. This can also happen if you select the wrong payment type or if your benefits have expired after nine months of inactivity.

Before shopping, perform an EBT balance check in Louisiana. You can use the LifeInCheck app, download the Benny app, call the number on your card, or check your last receipt.
Confirm your exact deposit date using the monthly benefit calendar in the LifeInCheck app. Knowing your schedule helps you check Louisiana EBT balance at the right time.
To keep your account active, make a small purchase every few months. Expired benefits cannot be re-added to your card.
Always choose “EBT-SNAP” at the payment terminal for food purchases.

Get 1-3% cash back on groceries and track your EBT Balance

Download the app

Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny

Benny is a free app that helps you get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, Costco, and others. It's also a simple way to check Louisiana EBT balance in real time. To get started, link your EBT card to the app. After you make a purchase, scan your receipt with Benny to receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.

Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

SHARE

Benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and EBT Cash, such as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), are provided on an EBT card. Regularly tracking your available funds is a smart way to manage your household budget and avoid running low when you need it most.

This guide covers how to check EBT balance in Louisiana, from using a mobile app to calling the EBT Customer Service line.

How to Check Your EBT Balance in Louisiana

You can check your EBT balance in several ways. These include logging into the online cardholder portal, using a mobile app on your smartphone, calling the 24/7 customer service hotline, making an inquiry at an ATM, or simply looking at your most recent grocery store receipt. Each method provides quick access to your current SNAP and EBT Cash funds.

1. Check Online via the Cardholder Portal

Accessing the official LifeInCheck EBT Cardholder Portal, linked from the Electronic Benefits Transfer page, gives you a real-time view of your benefits.

Go to lifeincheckebt.com and choose “Cardholder Login.”
First-time users should select “Create User ID” and register using your card number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your SSN. You will also set a username, password, and security questions.
Sign in and click “Account Balance” on the dashboard to see your current Food (SNAP) and EBT Cash balances, along with your next benefit availability date.
You can also press “Transaction History” to download or print past activity.

This online portal is a reliable way to check your Louisiana EBT balance from any computer.

2. Use the Benny App

Using the free Benny app on your smartphone is another convenient option for an EBT balance check in Louisiana.

Install Benny from the App Store or Google Play and tap “Get Started.”
Select your state, then enter your card number and the ZIP code associated with your benefits account.
Your home screen will immediately display your current SNAP and EBT Cash balances. You can swipe to see your next deposit date and recent transactions.

The app also provides cash-back opportunities on EBT purchases at many popular stores, including Costco, Walmart, Walgreens, and Trader Joe’s.

3. Call the Customer Service Hotline

Calling the automated phone line lets you hear your balance information any time of day.

Dial 1-888-997-1117 and choose your preferred language when prompted.
Select the balance-inquiry option and enter your 16-digit card number followed by your PIN.
An automated voice will read your SNAP balance first, then your EBT Cash balance. You can stay on the line to have the amounts repeated or to speak with a live agent.

Support is available in English, Spanish, Vietnamese, and Mandarin, with more details on language access available on the DCFS LaHelpU service-center page. This hotline is a straightforward method to check EBT balance in Louisiana.

4. Make an ATM Inquiry

Checking your EBT Cash balance can be done at any ATM that shows the Quest®, Cirrus®, or STAR® logo.

Use an ATM locator to find a surcharge-free machine near you.
Insert your EBT card, enter your PIN, and select the “Balance Inquiry” option, followed by “Checking.”
The screen will display your available EBT Cash balance, which will also be printed on your receipt.

Many ATMs only show your EBT Cash funds and not your SNAP balance. If this happens, you can check your SNAP funds by looking at your last store receipt or by using the Benny app.

5. Look at Your Last Store Receipt

Reviewing your most recent store receipt is a simple way to see your remaining funds after a transaction.

After completing a food or cash transaction, keep the receipt issued by the store.
Look for “EBT Food Bal” or “EBT Cash Bal” near the bottom to see your current balances.

Download Benny app 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

How Can I Keep My EBT Card Secure?

With phishing and smishing attacks on the rise across the state, thieves have more ways than ever to access your benefits. Recognizing the common scams is the first step toward protecting your account and acting quickly if you become a victim.

How EBT Benefits Are Stolen

Thieves use several methods to steal benefits. Card-skimming devices attached to payment terminals can clone your card's data, a significant threat in Louisiana. Another common tactic is "smishing," where fraudulent texts about a locked account trick you into clicking a link that steals your card number and PIN. These scams often create a false sense of urgency around an EBT balance check in Louisiana.

What To Do If Your Benefits Are Stolen

If your SNAP funds are stolen via skimming or phishing, federal law allows for replacement for incidents occurring after October 1, 2022. You must:

Report the theft to DCFS within 30 days of discovery.
Complete the required DCFS claim form.
Keep proof of the fraudulent transactions.

This replacement policy does not apply to EBT Cash benefits, but you should still report the fraud immediately.

Other Common Issues with EBT Cards and How to Resolve Them

Beyond security threats, you might run into other common problems with your EBT card. Knowing the right steps can help you resolve them quickly and access your benefits.

Card Never Arrives or Arrives Late

Your Purchase card is mailed separately from your approval letter, which can cause confusion. It typically takes three to five business days to arrive, but postal delays or an old address on file with the state of Louisiana can extend this timeline. You can find more details on the official EBT information page.

If it has been more than ten business days, call the LAHelpU Customer Service Center at 1-888-524-3578 to confirm your address and ask for a new card.
While you wait, you can monitor your case through the CAFÉ Self-Service Portal or the LifeInCheck app to see when your benefits are deposited.
Once your card arrives, sign the back and choose a secure PIN.

Forgotten, Blocked, or Rejected PIN

Entering the wrong PIN three times will freeze your card until midnight as a security measure. The system also rejects PINs that use easy-to-guess number patterns, like 1111 or your birth year, to protect your account.

You can reset your PIN immediately through the LifeInCheck app, on the LifeInCheckEBT.com website, or by calling the automated line at 1-888-997-1117.
If your account is frozen, you can either wait until after midnight for it to unlock automatically or use one of the reset methods right away.
Choose a PIN that doesn't follow a simple pattern and avoid writing it on your card. A quick check EBT balance in Louisiana after a reset can confirm it's working.

“Insufficient Funds” or Card Declined at Checkout

SNAP benefits are deposited once a month on a set date between the 1st and 14th. Trying to use your card before your deposit date will result in a decline. This can also happen if you select the wrong payment type or if your benefits have expired after nine months of inactivity.

Before shopping, perform an EBT balance check in Louisiana. You can use the LifeInCheck app, download the Benny app, call the number on your card, or check your last receipt.
Confirm your exact deposit date using the monthly benefit calendar in the LifeInCheck app. Knowing your schedule helps you check Louisiana EBT balance at the right time.
To keep your account active, make a small purchase every few months. Expired benefits cannot be re-added to your card.
Always choose “EBT-SNAP” at the payment terminal for food purchases.

Get 1-3% cash back on groceries and track your EBT Balance

Download the app

Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny

Benny is a free app that helps you get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, Costco, and others. It's also a simple way to check Louisiana EBT balance in real time. To get started, link your EBT card to the app. After you make a purchase, scan your receipt with Benny to receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.

Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

SHARE

Benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and EBT Cash, such as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), are provided on an EBT card. Regularly tracking your available funds is a smart way to manage your household budget and avoid running low when you need it most.

This guide covers how to check EBT balance in Louisiana, from using a mobile app to calling the EBT Customer Service line.

How to Check Your EBT Balance in Louisiana

You can check your EBT balance in several ways. These include logging into the online cardholder portal, using a mobile app on your smartphone, calling the 24/7 customer service hotline, making an inquiry at an ATM, or simply looking at your most recent grocery store receipt. Each method provides quick access to your current SNAP and EBT Cash funds.

1. Check Online via the Cardholder Portal

Accessing the official LifeInCheck EBT Cardholder Portal, linked from the Electronic Benefits Transfer page, gives you a real-time view of your benefits.

Go to lifeincheckebt.com and choose “Cardholder Login.”
First-time users should select “Create User ID” and register using your card number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your SSN. You will also set a username, password, and security questions.
Sign in and click “Account Balance” on the dashboard to see your current Food (SNAP) and EBT Cash balances, along with your next benefit availability date.
You can also press “Transaction History” to download or print past activity.

This online portal is a reliable way to check your Louisiana EBT balance from any computer.

2. Use the Benny App

Using the free Benny app on your smartphone is another convenient option for an EBT balance check in Louisiana.

Install Benny from the App Store or Google Play and tap “Get Started.”
Select your state, then enter your card number and the ZIP code associated with your benefits account.
Your home screen will immediately display your current SNAP and EBT Cash balances. You can swipe to see your next deposit date and recent transactions.

The app also provides cash-back opportunities on EBT purchases at many popular stores, including Costco, Walmart, Walgreens, and Trader Joe’s.

3. Call the Customer Service Hotline

Calling the automated phone line lets you hear your balance information any time of day.

Dial 1-888-997-1117 and choose your preferred language when prompted.
Select the balance-inquiry option and enter your 16-digit card number followed by your PIN.
An automated voice will read your SNAP balance first, then your EBT Cash balance. You can stay on the line to have the amounts repeated or to speak with a live agent.

Support is available in English, Spanish, Vietnamese, and Mandarin, with more details on language access available on the DCFS LaHelpU service-center page. This hotline is a straightforward method to check EBT balance in Louisiana.

4. Make an ATM Inquiry

Checking your EBT Cash balance can be done at any ATM that shows the Quest®, Cirrus®, or STAR® logo.

Use an ATM locator to find a surcharge-free machine near you.
Insert your EBT card, enter your PIN, and select the “Balance Inquiry” option, followed by “Checking.”
The screen will display your available EBT Cash balance, which will also be printed on your receipt.

Many ATMs only show your EBT Cash funds and not your SNAP balance. If this happens, you can check your SNAP funds by looking at your last store receipt or by using the Benny app.

5. Look at Your Last Store Receipt

Reviewing your most recent store receipt is a simple way to see your remaining funds after a transaction.

After completing a food or cash transaction, keep the receipt issued by the store.
Look for “EBT Food Bal” or “EBT Cash Bal” near the bottom to see your current balances.

Download Benny app 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

How Can I Keep My EBT Card Secure?

With phishing and smishing attacks on the rise across the state, thieves have more ways than ever to access your benefits. Recognizing the common scams is the first step toward protecting your account and acting quickly if you become a victim.

How EBT Benefits Are Stolen

Thieves use several methods to steal benefits. Card-skimming devices attached to payment terminals can clone your card's data, a significant threat in Louisiana. Another common tactic is "smishing," where fraudulent texts about a locked account trick you into clicking a link that steals your card number and PIN. These scams often create a false sense of urgency around an EBT balance check in Louisiana.

What To Do If Your Benefits Are Stolen

If your SNAP funds are stolen via skimming or phishing, federal law allows for replacement for incidents occurring after October 1, 2022. You must:

Report the theft to DCFS within 30 days of discovery.
Complete the required DCFS claim form.
Keep proof of the fraudulent transactions.

This replacement policy does not apply to EBT Cash benefits, but you should still report the fraud immediately.

Other Common Issues with EBT Cards and How to Resolve Them

Beyond security threats, you might run into other common problems with your EBT card. Knowing the right steps can help you resolve them quickly and access your benefits.

Card Never Arrives or Arrives Late

Your Purchase card is mailed separately from your approval letter, which can cause confusion. It typically takes three to five business days to arrive, but postal delays or an old address on file with the state of Louisiana can extend this timeline. You can find more details on the official EBT information page.

If it has been more than ten business days, call the LAHelpU Customer Service Center at 1-888-524-3578 to confirm your address and ask for a new card.
While you wait, you can monitor your case through the CAFÉ Self-Service Portal or the LifeInCheck app to see when your benefits are deposited.
Once your card arrives, sign the back and choose a secure PIN.

Forgotten, Blocked, or Rejected PIN

Entering the wrong PIN three times will freeze your card until midnight as a security measure. The system also rejects PINs that use easy-to-guess number patterns, like 1111 or your birth year, to protect your account.

You can reset your PIN immediately through the LifeInCheck app, on the LifeInCheckEBT.com website, or by calling the automated line at 1-888-997-1117.
If your account is frozen, you can either wait until after midnight for it to unlock automatically or use one of the reset methods right away.
Choose a PIN that doesn't follow a simple pattern and avoid writing it on your card. A quick check EBT balance in Louisiana after a reset can confirm it's working.

“Insufficient Funds” or Card Declined at Checkout

SNAP benefits are deposited once a month on a set date between the 1st and 14th. Trying to use your card before your deposit date will result in a decline. This can also happen if you select the wrong payment type or if your benefits have expired after nine months of inactivity.

Before shopping, perform an EBT balance check in Louisiana. You can use the LifeInCheck app, download the Benny app, call the number on your card, or check your last receipt.
Confirm your exact deposit date using the monthly benefit calendar in the LifeInCheck app. Knowing your schedule helps you check Louisiana EBT balance at the right time.
To keep your account active, make a small purchase every few months. Expired benefits cannot be re-added to your card.
Always choose “EBT-SNAP” at the payment terminal for food purchases.

Get 1-3% cash back on groceries and track your EBT Balance

Download the app

Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny

Benny is a free app that helps you get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, Costco, and others. It's also a simple way to check Louisiana EBT balance in real time. To get started, link your EBT card to the app. After you make a purchase, scan your receipt with Benny to receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.

Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

SHARE

Benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and EBT Cash, such as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), are provided on an EBT card. Regularly tracking your available funds is a smart way to manage your household budget and avoid running low when you need it most.

This guide covers how to check EBT balance in Louisiana, from using a mobile app to calling the EBT Customer Service line.

How to Check Your EBT Balance in Louisiana

You can check your EBT balance in several ways. These include logging into the online cardholder portal, using a mobile app on your smartphone, calling the 24/7 customer service hotline, making an inquiry at an ATM, or simply looking at your most recent grocery store receipt. Each method provides quick access to your current SNAP and EBT Cash funds.

1. Check Online via the Cardholder Portal

Accessing the official LifeInCheck EBT Cardholder Portal, linked from the Electronic Benefits Transfer page, gives you a real-time view of your benefits.

Go to lifeincheckebt.com and choose “Cardholder Login.”
First-time users should select “Create User ID” and register using your card number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your SSN. You will also set a username, password, and security questions.
Sign in and click “Account Balance” on the dashboard to see your current Food (SNAP) and EBT Cash balances, along with your next benefit availability date.
You can also press “Transaction History” to download or print past activity.

This online portal is a reliable way to check your Louisiana EBT balance from any computer.

2. Use the Benny App

Using the free Benny app on your smartphone is another convenient option for an EBT balance check in Louisiana.

Install Benny from the App Store or Google Play and tap “Get Started.”
Select your state, then enter your card number and the ZIP code associated with your benefits account.
Your home screen will immediately display your current SNAP and EBT Cash balances. You can swipe to see your next deposit date and recent transactions.

The app also provides cash-back opportunities on EBT purchases at many popular stores, including Costco, Walmart, Walgreens, and Trader Joe’s.

3. Call the Customer Service Hotline

Calling the automated phone line lets you hear your balance information any time of day.

Dial 1-888-997-1117 and choose your preferred language when prompted.
Select the balance-inquiry option and enter your 16-digit card number followed by your PIN.
An automated voice will read your SNAP balance first, then your EBT Cash balance. You can stay on the line to have the amounts repeated or to speak with a live agent.

Support is available in English, Spanish, Vietnamese, and Mandarin, with more details on language access available on the DCFS LaHelpU service-center page. This hotline is a straightforward method to check EBT balance in Louisiana.

4. Make an ATM Inquiry

Checking your EBT Cash balance can be done at any ATM that shows the Quest®, Cirrus®, or STAR® logo.

Use an ATM locator to find a surcharge-free machine near you.
Insert your EBT card, enter your PIN, and select the “Balance Inquiry” option, followed by “Checking.”
The screen will display your available EBT Cash balance, which will also be printed on your receipt.

Many ATMs only show your EBT Cash funds and not your SNAP balance. If this happens, you can check your SNAP funds by looking at your last store receipt or by using the Benny app.

5. Look at Your Last Store Receipt

Reviewing your most recent store receipt is a simple way to see your remaining funds after a transaction.

After completing a food or cash transaction, keep the receipt issued by the store.
Look for “EBT Food Bal” or “EBT Cash Bal” near the bottom to see your current balances.

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How Can I Keep My EBT Card Secure?

With phishing and smishing attacks on the rise across the state, thieves have more ways than ever to access your benefits. Recognizing the common scams is the first step toward protecting your account and acting quickly if you become a victim.

How EBT Benefits Are Stolen

Thieves use several methods to steal benefits. Card-skimming devices attached to payment terminals can clone your card's data, a significant threat in Louisiana. Another common tactic is "smishing," where fraudulent texts about a locked account trick you into clicking a link that steals your card number and PIN. These scams often create a false sense of urgency around an EBT balance check in Louisiana.

What To Do If Your Benefits Are Stolen

If your SNAP funds are stolen via skimming or phishing, federal law allows for replacement for incidents occurring after October 1, 2022. You must:

Report the theft to DCFS within 30 days of discovery.
Complete the required DCFS claim form.
Keep proof of the fraudulent transactions.

This replacement policy does not apply to EBT Cash benefits, but you should still report the fraud immediately.

Other Common Issues with EBT Cards and How to Resolve Them

Beyond security threats, you might run into other common problems with your EBT card. Knowing the right steps can help you resolve them quickly and access your benefits.

Card Never Arrives or Arrives Late

Your Purchase card is mailed separately from your approval letter, which can cause confusion. It typically takes three to five business days to arrive, but postal delays or an old address on file with the state of Louisiana can extend this timeline. You can find more details on the official EBT information page.

If it has been more than ten business days, call the LAHelpU Customer Service Center at 1-888-524-3578 to confirm your address and ask for a new card.
While you wait, you can monitor your case through the CAFÉ Self-Service Portal or the LifeInCheck app to see when your benefits are deposited.
Once your card arrives, sign the back and choose a secure PIN.

Forgotten, Blocked, or Rejected PIN

Entering the wrong PIN three times will freeze your card until midnight as a security measure. The system also rejects PINs that use easy-to-guess number patterns, like 1111 or your birth year, to protect your account.

You can reset your PIN immediately through the LifeInCheck app, on the LifeInCheckEBT.com website, or by calling the automated line at 1-888-997-1117.
If your account is frozen, you can either wait until after midnight for it to unlock automatically or use one of the reset methods right away.
Choose a PIN that doesn't follow a simple pattern and avoid writing it on your card. A quick check EBT balance in Louisiana after a reset can confirm it's working.

“Insufficient Funds” or Card Declined at Checkout

SNAP benefits are deposited once a month on a set date between the 1st and 14th. Trying to use your card before your deposit date will result in a decline. This can also happen if you select the wrong payment type or if your benefits have expired after nine months of inactivity.

Before shopping, perform an EBT balance check in Louisiana. You can use the LifeInCheck app, download the Benny app, call the number on your card, or check your last receipt.
Confirm your exact deposit date using the monthly benefit calendar in the LifeInCheck app. Knowing your schedule helps you check Louisiana EBT balance at the right time.
To keep your account active, make a small purchase every few months. Expired benefits cannot be re-added to your card.
Always choose “EBT-SNAP” at the payment terminal for food purchases.

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Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny

Benny is a free app that helps you get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, Costco, and others. It's also a simple way to check Louisiana EBT balance in real time. To get started, link your EBT card to the app. After you make a purchase, scan your receipt with Benny to receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.

Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.