Common EBT-Related Issues and How to Resolve Them

While your EBT card is a reliable tool for accessing benefits, you might occasionally run into problems. Most issues, from a lost card to a declined transaction, have clear solutions that can get you back on track quickly. Here are some of the most common situations and how to handle them.

Lost or Stolen EBT Card

If your card is missing, it is important to act immediately to protect your benefits from theft. Deactivating the card is the first and most critical step to prevent unauthorized use.

• Call the 24/7 Georgia EBT customer service number at 1-888-421-3281 and choose the option for a lost or stolen card to cancel it instantly.

• Verify your identity and request a replacement. Double-check that your mailing address on file is correct.

• Your new card should arrive in about 7–10 business days. If it doesn’t, call customer service to have it re-issued.

• Once the new card arrives, activate it and set a new PIN by phone or online at connectebt.com/ga.

• If you suspect theft, review your transaction history. You may be able to replace stolen benefits by submitting a replacement request form if the theft meets federal guidelines.

Forgotten or Locked PIN

Forgetting your PIN or having it locked is a common frustration. Fortunately, you can get help from the EBT customer service in Georgia to reset it quickly without needing a new card.

• Call 1-888-421-3281 and select the option to change your PIN. If you don’t know your card number, press “#” to speak with an agent.

• You will need to provide identifying information to confirm you are the cardholder.

• Choose a new four-digit PIN that is difficult to guess. Avoid sequences like 1234 or personal dates. To protect your benefits, change your PIN often.

• Entering the wrong PIN three times will lock your card for 24 hours, requiring another call to customer service to unlock it.

Benefit Deposit Missing or Delayed

If your benefits haven't been loaded on the expected date, there could be several reasons, from a simple processing delay to an issue with your case file that needs attention.

• First, confirm your balance. You can use the free Benny app to track your SNAP and EBT Cash balance or call the automated phone line.

• Check the official Georgia deposit schedule. Remember to allow an extra business day if your deposit date falls on a weekend or holiday.

• If your case is new or up for renewal, log in to the Gateway portal to confirm all your documents have been submitted.

• If your benefits still haven't appeared, contact your DFCS caseworker or the main customer service line to ask about system outages or other delays.

Card Declined at Checkout

A declined card at the register can be stressful, but the cause is often simple to fix. Before calling for customer service for EBT in Georgia, try these quick troubleshooting steps.

• First, check your balance to make sure you have enough funds. You can get a full guide on how to check your balance online.

• Ask the cashier to try a different register. Sometimes a temporary network interruption between the store and the EBT system is the problem.

• Ensure the store is SNAP-authorized and that all your items are eligible for purchase with your benefits.

• If your card is visibly worn or damaged, or it continues to be declined everywhere, call customer service to request a free replacement.

Manage Your EBT Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny

Benny is a free app that helps you track your EBT balance in real-time and get cash back on eligible purchases at popular stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, and Costco.

To get started, link your EBT card to the app. After you make a purchase, scan your receipt with Benny to receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items. This helps you manage your funds without needing to call the Georgia EBT customer service number for balance inquiries.

Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.