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 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 to start managing your EBT benefits more effectively. It's completely free with no hidden fees.
Call the Wisconsin EBT Hotline
Cardholders can check their EBT balance by calling the Wisconsin EBT customer service number at 1-877-415-5164. 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 Wisconsin's Official SNAP Website
To check your EBT balance online in Wisconsin, follow these steps:
Visit the Wisconsin EBT website.
Log in with your user ID and password. If you do not have an account, you will need to create one by clicking on the "Create an Account" link and following the registration instructions.
Once logged in, navigate to the section labeled "EBT Account" or "My Account."
Select the option to view your EBT balance. Your current balance and recent transactions will be displayed.
Check at an ATM
Insert your EBT card into any ATM displaying the Quest® logo. Enter your PIN and select the option to check your balance. The ATM 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.
When Funds Are Typically Loaded
In Wisconsin, EBT funds are typically loaded based on the last digit of the recipient's 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 effectively. Check out the monthly EBT deposit schedule to know when to expect your benefits every month.
If the 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 1-877-415-5164.
Do Unused Benefits Roll Over?
In Wisconsin, unused EBT benefits roll over to the next month and accumulate. For more details, visit the ACCESS Wisconsin portal.
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.
Contact Customer Service Immediately: Call the EBT hotline at 1-877-415-5164 to report your card 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: Some states may require you to file a report with local authorities. Check the ACCESS Wisconsin portal for specific instructions.
Spot and Report a Wrong Charge
If you notice unauthorized or incorrect charges on your EBT account, take immediate action to protect your benefits.
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 ACCESS Wisconsin portal or by reviewing your receipts.
Contact Customer Service: Call the Wisconsin EBT hotline at 1-877-415-5164 to report any unauthorized or incorrect charges. Provide as much detail as possible to help resolve the issue quickly.
Follow Up as Necessary: Keep track of your report and follow up with customer service if the issue is not resolved promptly. Document all communications for future reference.
Bonus Tip: Use the Benny app to monitor your transactions in real-time and quickly spot any incorrect charges. This can help you take immediate action and keep your benefits secure.
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 1-877-415-5164 to request a replacement.
System Outages: Sometimes, system outages can prevent transactions from going through. Check the ACCESS Wisconsin portal for any notifications about system issues.
Reset PIN or Unlock Account
To reset your PIN or unlock your EBT account, follow these steps:
Call the Wisconsin Hotline: Dial 1-877-415-5164 and select the option for PIN reset. Follow the automated prompts to choose a new PIN.
Log in to the ACCESS Wisconsin Portal: Visit the ACCESS Wisconsin portal and log in with your user ID and password.
Navigate to the section labeled "EBT Account" or "My Account."
Select the option to reset your PIN and follow the on-screen instructions to choose a new PIN.
Remember to choose a secure PIN and avoid sharing it with others to keep your benefits safe.
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.
