EBT Guides
Mar 19, 2025
Regularly checking your EBT balance helps you manage your benefits effectively. It ensures you have enough funds for your purchases 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, including 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 Dakota EBT Hotline
Cardholders can check their EBT balance by calling the North Dakota EBT Hotline at 1-800-630-4655. 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 EBT card.
Use North Dakota's Official SNAP Website
To check your EBT balance online in North Dakota, follow these steps:
Visit the North Dakota EBT website.
Click on the link to access the EBT cardholder portal.
Log in using your EBT card number and PIN.
Once logged in, navigate to the balance check section.
Your current EBT balance and recent transactions will be displayed.
Check at an ATM
Insert your EBT card into any ATM displaying the Quest® logo. Enter your PIN and select the option to check your balance. The ATM will display your current EBT balance on the screen.
Be aware that some ATMs may charge a fee for balance inquiries. Always check for any applicable fees before proceeding with your transaction.
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 most.
When Funds Are Typically Loaded
In North Dakota, EBT funds are typically loaded based on the last digit of your case number. 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 1-800-630-4655.
Do Unused Benefits Roll Over?
In North Dakota, unused EBT benefits roll over to the next month and accumulate, but they must be used within 365 days to avoid expiration.
How to Fix Common Issues with EBT Cards
Sometimes your EBT card might 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.
Contact Customer Service Immediately: Call the EBT hotline at 1-800-630-4655 to report your card as lost or stolen. This will help prevent unauthorized use.
Request a Replacement Card: Ask the customer service representative to send you a new card. It typically arrives within 7-10 business days.
File a Report if Required: Depending on your situation, you may need to file a report with local authorities or the North Dakota Department of 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.
Review Your Transaction History Regularly: Regularly check your transaction history to spot any discrepancies as soon as they occur. This proactive approach helps you catch unauthorized charges early.
Contact Customer Service: Call the North Dakota EBT hotline at 1-800-630-4655 to report any discrepancies. Provide details about the incorrect charges and follow the representative's instructions to resolve the issue.
Follow Up as Necessary: Keep track of your report and follow up with customer service if the issue is not resolved promptly. Ensure you have all relevant information and documentation ready for any further inquiries.
Bonus Tip: Use the Benny app to monitor your transactions in real-time. This app helps you spot any incorrect charges quickly, ensuring your benefits are always secure.
Fix Card Declines With Balance Available
If your EBT card is declined despite having a sufficient balance, consider these potential issues:
Incorrect PIN Entry: Double-check that you are entering the correct PIN. Multiple incorrect attempts can temporarily lock your card.
Expired Card: Verify the expiration date on your EBT card. If it has expired, contact customer service at 1-800-630-4655 to request a replacement.
System Outages: Sometimes, system outages or maintenance can cause temporary declines. Check the North Dakota Department of Human Services website for any announcements regarding system issues.
Reset PIN or Unlock Account
If you need to reset your PIN or unlock your EBT account, follow these steps:
Call the North Dakota Hotline: Dial 1-800-630-4655 and select the option for PIN reset. Follow the automated prompts to choose a new PIN.
Use the North Dakota SNAP Portal: Log in to the North Dakota Department of Human Services portal. Once logged in, navigate to the section for PIN management and follow the instructions to reset your PIN.
When choosing a new PIN, ensure it is secure 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.
