How to Check Your Montana EBT Balance in 5 Steps

Regularly checking your EBT balance is important for cardholders in Montana. It helps you manage your benefits effectively, avoid declined transactions, and detect any unauthorized charges promptly.

In this article, we’ll cover five practical ways to check your EBT balance and walk through how to troubleshoot common card issues—including resetting your PIN and identifying and reporting incorrect charges.

5 Ways to Check Your EBT Balance

There are several ways to check your EBT balance, each with its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of convenience and ease of access.

Use 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 manage your EBT benefits more effectively. It's completely free with no hidden fees.

Call the Montana EBT Hotline

Cardholders can check their EBT balance by calling the Montana EBT Hotline at 1-866-850-1556. After dialing, select your preferred language, then enter your EBT card number when prompted. You will hear your current balance and recent transactions. Alternatively, you can use the customer service number printed on the back of your card.

Use Montana's Official SNAP Website

To check your EBT balance online in Montana, follow these steps:

1. Visit the Montana EBT website.

2. Log in using your EBT card number and PIN.

3. Navigate to the balance inquiry section.

4. View your current EBT balance and recent transactions.

Check at an ATM

Insert your EBT card into any ATM displaying the Quest® logo. Follow the on-screen instructions to check your balance. Note that some ATMs may charge a fee for this service.

Ensure the ATM accepts EBT cards by looking for the Quest® logo before proceeding. This method provides a quick and convenient way to access your balance.

Review Store Receipts

After making a purchase, EBT users can check their balance by looking at the bottom of their receipt, where the remaining EBT Food and EBT Cash balances are typically printed. This quick method helps you keep track of your benefits without any extra steps.

Know Your EBT Benefits Schedule

Understanding when your EBT benefits are loaded onto your card helps you plan your grocery shopping and manage your monthly budget more effectively.

When Funds Are Typically Loaded

In Montana, EBT funds are typically loaded based on the last digit of your case number. This system ensures a staggered distribution of benefits, preventing system overloads and ensuring timely access for all recipients. Knowing your deposit schedule helps you manage your balance and budget effectively. Check out the monthly EBT deposit schedule to know when to expect your benefits every month.

If your deposit date falls on a weekend or holiday, benefits are usually loaded the previous business day. Occasionally, delays due to system maintenance or statewide issues can occur. Notifications about unplanned delays will be posted on the state’s EBT website or shared via customer service. If your benefits are not deposited on time, call the EBT hotline at 1-866-850-1556.

Do Unused Benefits Roll Over?

Yes, unused EBT benefits in Montana roll over to the next month and accumulate. However, benefits will expire if not used within 365 days.

How to Fix Common Issues with EBT Cards

Occasionally, your EBT card may encounter issues even when it appears to be in good condition. Here are the solutions to address the most frequent problems.

Report a Lost or Stolen Card

If your EBT card is lost or stolen, take immediate action to secure your benefits.

1. Contact Customer Service Immediately: Call the Montana EBT Hotline at 1-866-850-1556 to report your card lost or stolen. This will help prevent unauthorized use.

2. Request a Replacement Card: After reporting, request a new card. It will be mailed to your registered address within 7-10 business days.

3. File a Report if Required: Depending on the situation, you may need to file a report with local authorities or the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services.

Spot and Report a Wrong Charge

If you notice unauthorized or incorrect charges on your EBT account, take immediate action to secure your benefits and resolve the issue.

1. Review Your Transaction History Regularly: Regularly check your transaction history to spot any discrepancies early. This can be done through the Montana EBT website or by reviewing your receipts.

2. Contact Customer Service: Call the Montana EBT Hotline at 1-866-850-1556 to report any unauthorized or incorrect charges. Provide details of the transaction in question to facilitate a prompt investigation.

3. Follow Up as Necessary: Keep track of your report and follow up with customer service if the issue is not resolved within a reasonable timeframe. Document all communications for future reference.

Bonus Tip: Use the Benny app to monitor your transactions in real-time and quickly spot any incorrect charges. This can help you take immediate action and protect your benefits.

Fix Card Declines With Balance Available

If your EBT card is declined despite having a sufficient balance, consider these possible issues:

1. Incorrect PIN Entry: Double-check that you are entering the correct PIN. Multiple incorrect attempts can temporarily lock your card.

2. Expired Card: Verify the expiration date on your card. If it has expired, contact customer service to request a replacement.

3. System Outages: Sometimes, system outages can prevent transactions from going through. Check the Montana EBT website for any announcements regarding system maintenance or outages.

Reset PIN or Unlock Account

To reset your PIN or unlock your EBT account, follow these steps:

1. Call the Montana Hotline: Dial 1-866-850-1556 and select the option for PIN reset. Follow the automated prompts to choose a new PIN.

Alternatively, you can reset your PIN online:

1. Log in to the Montana EBT website.

2. Navigate to the account settings or PIN reset section.

3. Follow the instructions to choose a new PIN.

Remember to choose a secure PIN and avoid sharing it with others to protect your benefits.

Download Benny to Stay on Top of Your EBT Balance

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, and more. Simply connect your EBT card and activate offers to start saving.

Download Benny to track your EBT spending and access cash back where you already shop.