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 identify 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 pros and cons regarding 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 Vermont EBT Hotline
Cardholders can check their EBT balance by calling the Vermont EBT Hotline at 1-800-914-8605. 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 Vermont's Official SNAP Website
To check your EBT balance online in Vermont, follow these steps:
Visit the Vermont EBT website.
Log in with your username and password. If you do not have an account, you will need to create one by clicking on the "Create Account" button and following the registration instructions.
Once logged in, navigate to the section labeled "EBT Balance" or "Account Summary."
Your current EBT balance and recent transactions will be displayed on the screen.
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 ATMs 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 and easy method helps you keep track of your funds without any extra steps.
Know Your EBT Benefits Schedule
Understanding when EBT benefits are loaded onto your card helps you plan your shopping trips and manage your budget more effectively.
When Funds Are Typically Loaded
In Vermont, EBT funds are typically loaded based on the last digit of your 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 more 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 1-800-914-8605.
Do Unused Benefits Roll Over?
Yes, unused EBT benefits in Vermont roll over to the next month and accumulate. However, benefits will expire after 365 days of inactivity.
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 1-800-914-8605 to report your card as lost or stolen. This will help prevent unauthorized use.
Request a Replacement Card: After reporting, request a new card. You can do this through the hotline or the Vermont EBT website.
File a Report if Required: In some cases, you may need to file a report with local authorities. Check with customer service for specific instructions.
Spot and Report a Wrong Charge
If you notice unauthorized or incorrect charges on your EBT account, take immediate action to secure your benefits and resolve the issue.
Review Your Transaction History Regularly: Regularly check your transaction history to spot any discrepancies as soon as they occur. This can be done through the Vermont EBT website or by reviewing your receipts.
Contact Customer Service: If you find any unauthorized or incorrect charges, call the Vermont EBT hotline at 1-800-914-8605 to report the issue. Provide them with details of the transaction in question.
Follow Up as Necessary: After reporting the issue, follow up with customer service to ensure the charge is investigated and resolved. Keep a record of your communications and any reference numbers provided.
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.
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 card. If it has expired, you will need to request a new one through the Vermont EBT website or by calling the EBT hotline at 1-800-914-8605.
System Outages: Occasionally, system outages or maintenance can cause temporary declines. Check for any notifications on the Vermont EBT website or contact customer service for updates.
Reset PIN or Unlock Account
If you need to reset your PIN or unlock your EBT account, follow these steps:
Call the Vermont Hotline: Dial 1-800-914-8605 and select the option for PIN reset. Follow the automated prompts to choose a new PIN.
Log in to MyBenefits: Visit the MyBenefits portal and log in with your username and password.
Navigate to PIN Reset: Once logged in, go to the section for account management and select the option to reset your PIN.
Follow the Instructions: Follow the on-screen instructions to choose a new PIN. Make sure to select a secure PIN and avoid sharing it with others.
Choosing a secure PIN and keeping it confidential is crucial for protecting your benefits. Regularly updating your PIN can also enhance your account security.
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.
