How to Check Your North Carolina EBT Balance in 5 Steps

Regularly checking your EBT balance helps you manage your benefits effectively. It ensures you have enough funds for your needs and helps you avoid declined transactions. Additionally, it allows you to spot 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 offering different levels 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 at stores like Dollar Tree, Target, Walmart, and many others.

Download the Benny app. It's completely free with no hidden fees.

Call the North Carolina EBT Hotline

Cardholders can check their EBT balance by calling the North Carolina EBT customer service number at 1-888-622-7328. After dialing, select your preferred language, enter your EBT card number, and listen for your balance details. Alternatively, you can use the number printed on the back of your card.

Use North Carolina's Official SNAP Website

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

1. Visit the North Carolina EBT website.

2. Click on the "Cardholder Login" button.

3. Enter your User ID and Password. If you do not have an account, click on "Register Here" to create one.

4. Once logged in, navigate to the "Account Summary" section to view your current EBT balance.

Check at an ATM

EBT cardholders can check their balance at any ATM displaying the Quest® logo. Simply insert your card, enter your PIN, and select the option to check your balance.

Be aware that some ATMs may charge a fee for balance inquiries, so it's best to use ATMs that offer free services for EBT cardholders.

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 and easy method helps you keep track of your funds without any extra steps.

Know Your EBT Benefits Schedule

Understanding when your EBT benefits are loaded onto your card helps you plan your shopping trips and ensures you have access to funds when you need them.

When Funds Are Typically Loaded

In North Carolina, EBT funds are typically loaded based on the last digit of your Social Security Number (SSN). This staggered system ensures a smooth distribution of benefits throughout the month. 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 1-888-622-7328.

Do Unused Benefits Roll Over?

In North Carolina, unused EBT benefits roll over to the next month and accumulate, ensuring you don't lose any unspent funds.

How to Fix Common Issues with EBT Cards

Occasionally, your EBT card may encounter issues even when everything appears to be in order. 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 EBT hotline at 1-888-622-7328 to report your card as lost or stolen. This will help prevent unauthorized use.

2. Request a Replacement Card: Ask the customer service representative to send you a new card. It typically arrives within 7-10 business days.

3. File a Report if Required: Depending on your situation, you may need to file a report with your local SNAP office or law enforcement.

Spot and Report a Wrong Charge

If you notice unauthorized or incorrect charges on your EBT account, it's crucial to act quickly to secure your benefits and resolve the issue. Here are the steps you should take:

1. Review Your Transaction History Regularly: Make it a habit to check your EBT transaction history frequently. This helps you spot any discrepancies early and take prompt action.

2. Contact Customer Service: Call the North Carolina EBT hotline at 1-888-622-7328 to report any unauthorized or incorrect charges. Provide them with details of the transactions in question.

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

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

Fix Card Declines With Balance Available

Experiencing a card decline despite having a sufficient balance can be frustrating. Consider these potential 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 EBT card. If it has expired, contact customer service to request a new one.

3. System Outages: Sometimes, system outages or maintenance can cause temporary declines. Check the North Carolina EBT website for any announcements regarding outages or maintenance.

Reset PIN or Unlock Account

If you need to reset your PIN or unlock your EBT account, follow these steps:

1. Call the North Carolina Hotline: Dial 1-888-622-7328 and select the option for PIN reset. Follow the automated prompts to choose a new PIN.

2. Log in to the North Carolina EBT Portal: Visit the North Carolina EBT Portal and log in with your User ID and Password.

3. Navigate to the "Account Management" section.

4. Select the option to reset your PIN.

5. Follow the on-screen 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.