How to Check Your South Dakota EBT Balance in 5 Steps

Regularly checking your EBT balance is important for cardholders. It helps you manage your benefits effectively, avoid unexpected denials at checkout, and detect any unauthorized transactions 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 at stores like Dollar Tree, Target, Walmart, and many others.

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

Call the South Dakota EBT Hotline

Cardholders can check their EBT balance by calling the South Dakota EBT Hotline at 1-800-604-5099. 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 for the same service.

Use South Dakota's Official SNAP Website

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

1. Visit the South Dakota 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 "Register Here" to create one.

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

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. 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 check their balance by reviewing their purchase receipt, where the balance is typically printed at the bottom after a transaction. Both EBT Food and EBT Cash balances may appear on the receipt, making it easy to keep track of your benefits.

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 funds available when you need them.

When Funds Are Typically Loaded

In South Dakota, EBT funds are typically loaded based on the last digit of your case number. This system ensures a staggered distribution of benefits, preventing system overloads and ensuring timely access for all recipients. 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. You will be notified on the state’s EBT website or via customer service about any unplanned delays. If your benefits are not deposited on time, call the EBT hotline at 1-800-604-5099.

Do Unused Benefits Roll Over?

In South Dakota, unused EBT benefits roll over to the next month and accumulate, ensuring you don't lose any benefits. For more details, visit the South Dakota EBT 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.

1. Contact Customer Service Immediately: Call the EBT hotline at 1-800-604-5099 to report your card as lost or stolen. This will freeze your account to prevent unauthorized use.

2. Request a Replacement Card: Ask the customer service representative to send you a new card. It typically arrives within 7-10 business days.

3. File a Report if Required: Some states may require you to file a report with local authorities. Check the South Dakota 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 and take prompt action.

2. Contact Customer Service: If you find any unauthorized or incorrect charges, immediately call the South Dakota EBT hotline at 1-800-604-5099. Report the discrepancies to a customer service representative, who will guide you through the process of disputing the charges.

3. Follow Up as Necessary: After reporting the issue, keep track of your case and follow up with customer service if needed. Ensure that the incorrect charges are resolved and that your account is secure.

Bonus Tip: Use the Benny app to monitor your transactions in real-time. This app allows you to quickly spot any incorrect charges and take immediate action to resolve them.

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 new one.

3. System Outages: Sometimes, system outages can prevent transactions from going through. Check the South Dakota EBT website for any announcements regarding system maintenance or outages.

Reset PIN or Unlock Account

If you need to reset your PIN or unlock your EBT account, follow these steps:

1. Call the South Dakota Hotline: Dial 1-800-604-5099 and select the option for PIN reset. Follow the automated prompts to choose a new PIN.

2. Log in to the South Dakota EBT Portal: Visit the South Dakota EBT Portal and log in with your User ID and password.

3. Navigate to the "Account Management" section.

4. Select the option to reset your PIN.

5. Follow the on-screen instructions 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 monitor 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.