How to Check Your Virginia EBT Balance in 5 Steps

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 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, including at stores like Dollar Tree, Target, Walmart, and many others.

Download the Benny app to manage your EBT benefits more effectively. It's completely free with no hidden fees.

Call the Virginia EBT Hotline

Cardholders can check their EBT balance by calling the Virginia EBT customer service number at 1-866-281-2448. After dialing, select your preferred language, enter your EBT card number, and listen for your balance details. Alternatively, you can use the number printed on the back of your card.

Use Virginia's Official SNAP Website

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

1. Visit the Virginia EBT website.

2. Log in using your User ID and password. If you do not have an account, you will need to create one by clicking on the "Create User Account" link.

3. Once logged in, navigate to the "Account Summary" section to view your current EBT balance.

4. Review your recent transactions to ensure all charges are accurate.

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 machines 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 method helps you keep track of your funds without any extra steps.

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 Virginia, EBT funds are typically loaded based on the last digit of the recipient's case 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 1-866-281-2448.

Do Unused Benefits Roll Over?

Yes, unused EBT benefits in Virginia 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 the 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 Virginia EBT hotline at 1-866-281-2448 to report your card lost or stolen. This will help 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: In some cases, you may need to file a report with your local SNAP office. 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 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 Virginia EBT hotline at 1-866-281-2448. Report the discrepancies to a customer service representative, who will guide you through the next steps.

3. Follow Up as Necessary: After reporting the issue, keep track of your case. Follow up with customer service if you do not receive a resolution within the expected timeframe. Document all communications for future reference.

Bonus Tip: Use the Benny app to monitor your transactions in real-time. This app allows you to quickly spot any incorrect charges and manage your EBT benefits more effectively.

Fix Card Declines With Balance Available

When your EBT card is declined despite having a sufficient balance, consider these potential 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 replacement.

3. 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

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

1. Call the Virginia Hotline: Dial the Virginia EBT customer service number at 1-866-281-2448. Select the option for PIN reset and follow the automated prompts to choose a new PIN.

2. Log in to the Virginia EBT Portal: Access the ConnectEBT website and log in using your User ID and password.

3. Navigate to the PIN Reset Section: Once logged in, go to the section where you can reset your PIN. Follow the on-screen 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, 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.