EBT Guides
Mar 19, 2025
Regularly checking your EBT balance helps you manage your benefits effectively, ensuring you have enough funds for your needs. It also helps you 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 at stores like Dollar Tree, Target, Walmart, and many others.
Download the Benny app to start managing your EBT benefits more effectively. It's completely free with no hidden fees.
Call the Rhode Island EBT Hotline
EBT cardholders can check their balance by calling the Rhode Island EBT customer service number at 1-888-979-9939. After dialing, select your preferred language, enter your EBT card number when prompted, and listen for your balance details. Alternatively, you can use the number printed on the back of your card for the same service.
Use Rhode Island's Official SNAP Website
To check your EBT balance online in Rhode Island, follow these steps:
Visit the Rhode Island EBT website.
Click on the "Cardholder Login" button.
Enter your User ID and Password. If you do not have an account, click on "Register Here" to create one.
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 EBT card, enter your PIN, and select the option to check your balance. The ATM will display your current balance on the screen.
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
EBT users can easily check their balance by looking at their purchase receipt, where the remaining balance is typically printed at the bottom after a transaction. Both EBT Food and EBT Cash balances may appear, making it a convenient way to keep track of your funds.
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 Rhode Island, EBT funds are typically loaded based on the last digit of the recipient's Social Security Number (SSN). This staggered system helps manage the distribution process efficiently. Knowing your deposit schedule can help 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 1-888-979-9939.
Do Unused Benefits Roll Over?
Yes, unused EBT benefits in Rhode Island 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 it appears to be in good condition. Here are some 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 1-888-979-9939 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. 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. Here are the steps you should follow:
Review Your Transaction History Regularly: Make it a habit to check your EBT transaction history frequently. This will help you spot any discrepancies early.
Contact Customer Service: If you find any unauthorized or incorrect charges, immediately call the Rhode Island EBT hotline at 1-888-979-9939 to report the issue. Provide them with details of the transaction in question.
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 identify and report any incorrect charges, ensuring your benefits are protected.
Fix Card Declines With Balance Available
If your EBT card is declined despite having a sufficient balance, consider these possible 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 to request a new one.
System Outages: Sometimes, system outages or maintenance can cause temporary declines. Check the ConnectEBT website for any announcements regarding system issues.
Reset PIN or Unlock Account
Resetting your PIN or unlocking your EBT account is straightforward. Follow these steps to ensure your card is secure and functional.
By Phone:
Call the Rhode Island EBT hotline at 1-888-979-9939.
Select the option for PIN reset.
Follow the automated prompts to choose a new PIN.
Online:
Log in to the ConnectEBT website.
Navigate to the "Account Management" section.
Select "Reset PIN" and follow the instructions to set 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 and Walmart. 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.
