EBT Guides
Mar 19, 2025
Effectively managing your EBT balance is important for budgeting and avoiding shortages, ensuring you can make the most of your benefits.
In this guide, we will show you how to check your EBT balance and share some practical ways to maximize your benefits in Minnesota.
5 Ways to Check Your EBT Balance
There are five main ways Minnesota residents can check their EBT balance:
On the Minnesota SNAP official website
Using the Benny app
By contacting Minnesota EBT customer service
At an ATM
From the last receipt
1) On the Minnesota SNAP Portal
To check your EBT balance online in Minnesota, follow these steps:
Visit the Minnesota Benefits Portal.
Access your account dashboard.
Locate the section for EBT balance information.
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, including at stores like Dollar Tree, Target, Walmart, and many others. Download the Benny app to take advantage of these features.
Importantly, Benny is completely free to use with no hidden fees, making it a convenient option for managing your EBT benefits.
3) By Contacting Minnesota EBT Customer Service
To check your EBT balance by phone, call the Minnesota EBT customer service number at 1-888-997-2227. This automated service is available 24/7, allowing you to access your balance information 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 Displayed Balance: The ATM will show your current EBT balance on the screen.
Print a Receipt: If available, opt to print a receipt for a physical record of your 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 the entire month. Below are practical strategies to help you 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 on groceries with EBT. Look for deals in newspapers, online, and store apps 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 maximize 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 challenge many people face. Remember, you are not alone, and local resources like food banks and community programs are available to help bridge the gap.
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 Minnesota 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:
Determine Eligibility: Visit the Minnesota Benefits Portal to check if you qualify for emergency EBT benefits.
Gather Required Documents: Prepare proof of identity, residency, and any documents showing your current financial situation.
Submit Your Application: Complete and submit your application through the Minnesota Benefits Portal for expedited processing.
Request EBT Benefits Reassessment
If your financial situation changes, you can request a reassessment of your EBT benefits in Minnesota:
Check Eligibility: Visit the Minnesota Benefits Portal to see if you qualify for a reassessment.
Gather Documentation: Collect proof of your current financial situation, including income statements and bills.
Contact Minnesota EBT Customer Service: Call 1-888-997-2227 for guidance on the reassessment process.
For the most current information on reassessment guidelines, contact the Minnesota EBT hotline or visit the Minnesota Benefits Portal.
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.
