How to Check Your Ohio EBT Balance in 5 Steps

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 quickly.

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 Ohio EBT Hotline

Cardholders can check their EBT balance by calling the Ohio EBT customer service number at 1-866-386-3071. 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 Ohio's Official SNAP Website

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

1. Visit the Ohio 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 "Create User Account" and follow the prompts to set one up.

4. Once logged in, navigate to the balance check 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 most.

When Funds Are Typically Loaded

In Ohio, 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 1-866-386-3071.

Do Unused Benefits Roll Over?

Yes, unused EBT benefits in Ohio roll over to the next month. However, benefits expire after 365 days of inactivity. For more details, visit the Ohio EBT website.

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 Ohio EBT hotline at 1-866-386-3071 to report your card as lost or stolen. This will help prevent unauthorized use.

2. Request a Replacement Card: While on the call, request 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 local authorities. Check the Ohio EBT website for specific instructions.

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 follow:

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

2. Contact Customer Service: If you find any unauthorized or incorrect charges, immediately call the Ohio EBT hotline at 1-866-386-3071 to report the issue. Provide them with details of the transaction in question.

3. Follow Up as Necessary: After reporting the issue, keep track of your case and follow up with customer service if needed to ensure the problem is resolved.

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

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 or maintenance can cause temporary declines. Check the Ohio EBT website for any announcements regarding system issues.

Reset PIN or Unlock Account

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

1. Call the Ohio Hotline: Dial 1-866-386-3071 and select the option for PIN reset.

2. Follow Automated Prompts: Listen to the automated instructions and choose a new PIN when prompted.

Alternatively, you can reset your PIN online:

1. Log in to the Ohio EBT Portal.

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

3. Follow the prompts 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 track your EBT balance and spending in real time, and earn cash back on groceries at stores like Target, Walmart, and more. Just 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.