EBT Guides
Mar 19, 2025
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 Texas EBT Hotline
EBT cardholders can check their balance by calling the Texas EBT customer service number at 1-800-777-7328. 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.
Use Texas's Official SNAP Website
To check your EBT balance online in Texas, follow these steps:
Visit the Texas EBT website.
Log in to your account using your username and password. If you don't have an account, you can create one by clicking on the "Create a new account" link.
Once logged in, navigate to the section labeled "EBT" or "SNAP" to view your balance and recent transactions.
Check at an ATM
Insert your EBT card into any ATM displaying the Quest® logo. Follow the on-screen instructions to check your balance. Note that some ATMs may charge a fee for balance inquiries.
Ensure the ATM accepts EBT cards by looking for the Quest® logo before proceeding. This method provides a quick and convenient way to access your balance.
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 ensures you always know how much you have left to spend.
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.
When Funds Are Typically Loaded
In Texas, EBT funds are typically loaded based on the last digit of your EDG (Eligibility Determination Group) 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 1-800-777-7328.
Do Unused Benefits Roll Over?
Yes, unused EBT benefits in Texas roll over to the next month and accumulate. For more details, visit the Your Texas Benefits 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 Texas EBT hotline at 1-800-777-7328 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 Your Texas Benefits 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 Transaction History Regularly: Make it a habit to check your transaction history frequently. This helps you spot any discrepancies early.
Contact Customer Service: Call the Texas EBT hotline at 1-800-777-7328 to report any unauthorized or incorrect charges. Provide as much detail as possible to help resolve the issue promptly.
Follow Up as Necessary: Keep track of your report and follow up with customer service if the issue is not resolved within a reasonable timeframe.
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
Even with a sufficient balance, your EBT card may be declined due to several reasons. Consider these potential 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 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 Your Texas Benefits website for any announcements regarding system issues.
Reset PIN or Unlock Account
Call the Texas Hotline: Dial the Texas EBT hotline at 1-800-777-7328. Select the option for PIN reset and follow the automated prompts to choose a new PIN.
Log in to Your Texas Benefits: Access the Your Texas Benefits portal. Once logged in, navigate to the section for managing your EBT card. Follow the instructions to reset your PIN.
When choosing a new PIN, ensure it is secure 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.
