How to Check Your Pennsylvania 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 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 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 at stores like Dollar Tree, Target, Walmart, and many others.

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

Call the Pennsylvania EBT Hotline

EBT cardholders can check their balance by calling the Pennsylvania EBT customer service number at 1-888-328-7366. 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 number printed on the back of your card.

Use Pennsylvania's Official SNAP Website

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

1. Visit the Pennsylvania 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 instructions to set one up.

4. Once logged in, navigate to the balance check section to view your current EBT balance and recent transactions.

Check at an ATM

Insert your EBT card into any ATM displaying the Quest® logo and enter your PIN. Select the option to check your balance, and the machine will display your current EBT balance on the screen.

Be aware that some ATMs may charge a fee for balance inquiries, so it's best to use machines 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 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 Pennsylvania, 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 1-888-328-7366.

Do Unused Benefits Roll Over?

Yes, unused EBT benefits in Pennsylvania roll over to the next month and accumulate. For more details, visit the ConnectEBT 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 EBT hotline at 1-888-328-7366 to report your card as lost or stolen. This will freeze your account to prevent unauthorized use.

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

3. File a Report if Required: In some cases, you may need to file a report with your local SNAP office. Check the ConnectEBT 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 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: If you find any unauthorized or incorrect charges, immediately call the Pennsylvania EBT hotline at 1-888-328-7366. Report the discrepancies to customer service, providing them with details of the transactions in question.

3. Follow Up as Necessary: After reporting the issue, follow up with customer service to ensure that the problem is being addressed. Keep a record of your communications and any reference numbers provided 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 to resolve them.

Fix Card Declines With Balance Available

Even with a sufficient balance, your EBT card may be declined due to several reasons:

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 new one.

3. System Outages: Occasionally, system outages or maintenance can affect card transactions. Check the ConnectEBT 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 Pennsylvania Hotline: Dial 1-888-328-7366 and select the option for PIN reset. Follow the automated prompts to choose a new PIN.

2. Log in to the Pennsylvania EBT Portal: Visit the ConnectEBT website and log in with your User ID and Password.

3. Navigate to the PIN Reset Section: Once logged in, find the section for PIN reset.

4. Follow the Instructions: Follow the on-screen instructions to reset your PIN. Make sure to choose a secure PIN and avoid sharing it with others.

By following these steps, you can ensure your EBT account remains secure and accessible.

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.