EBT Guides
Mar 19, 2025
Regularly checking your EBT balance helps you manage your benefits effectively. It ensures you have enough funds for your needs and helps you avoid declined transactions. Additionally, it allows you to spot 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 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, including at stores like Dollar Tree, Target, Walmart, and many others.
Download the Benny app. It's completely free with no hidden fees.
Call the West Virginia EBT Hotline
Cardholders can check their EBT balance by calling the West Virginia EBT customer service number at 1-866-545-6502. 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 West Virginia's Official SNAP Website
To check your EBT balance online in West Virginia, follow these steps:
Visit the West Virginia 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" or "Card Balance" to view your current balance and recent transactions.
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 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 most.
When Funds Are Typically Loaded
In West 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 1-866-545-6502.
Do Unused Benefits Roll Over?
Yes, unused EBT benefits in West Virginia roll over to the next month and accumulate. For more details, visit the WV PATH.
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 1-866-545-6502 to report your card as lost or stolen. This will help prevent unauthorized use.
Request a Replacement Card: After reporting, request a new card. It will be mailed to your registered address within 7-10 business days.
File a Report if Required: Some cases may require you to file a report with your local SNAP office. Check the WV PATH 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 take:
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.
Contact Customer Service: If you find any unauthorized or incorrect charges, immediately call the West Virginia EBT hotline at 1-866-545-6502. Report the discrepancies and provide any necessary details to the customer service representative.
Follow Up as Necessary: After reporting the issue, follow up with customer service to ensure the problem is 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 to address them.
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, contact customer service at 1-866-545-6502 to request a replacement.
System Outages: Sometimes, system outages or maintenance can cause temporary declines. Check the WV PATH 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:
Call the West Virginia Hotline: Dial 1-866-545-6502 and select the option for PIN reset. Follow the automated prompts to choose a new PIN.
Use the West Virginia PATH Portal: Log in to the West Virginia PATH 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, make sure 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. Simply 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.
