5 Ways to Check Your Louisiana EBT Balance
Check your Louisiana EBT balance in moments online, through the Benny app, or with a quick phone call.
Mar 18, 2025
Steve Austin
5 Ways to Check Your Louisiana EBT Balance
Check your Louisiana EBT balance in moments online, through the Benny app, or with a quick phone call.
Mar 18, 2025
Steve Austin
5 Ways to Check Your Louisiana EBT Balance
Check your Louisiana EBT balance in moments online, through the Benny app, or with a quick phone call.
Mar 18, 2025
Steve Austin
5 Ways to Check Your Louisiana EBT Balance
Check your Louisiana EBT balance in moments online, through the Benny app, or with a quick phone call.
Mar 18, 2025
Steve Austin
5 Ways to Check Your Louisiana EBT Balance
Check your Louisiana EBT balance in moments online, through the Benny app, or with a quick phone call.
Mar 18, 2025
Steve Austin
SHARE
ON THIS PAGE
Your EBT card holds your Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and/or EBT Cash benefits, such as from the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program. Keeping track of your available funds is a smart way to manage your budget and avoid coming up short at the checkout counter.
This guide details the different ways to check your EBT balance in Louisiana, from using a mobile app to calling EBT Customer Service.
How to Check Your EBT Balance in Louisiana
You can check your Louisiana EBT funds in several ways. These include logging into the online cardholder portal, using a mobile app, calling the 24/7 customer service hotline, making an inquiry at an ATM, or simply looking at your most recent store receipt. Each method gives you a quick snapshot of your available benefits.
1. Check Online via the EBT Cardholder Portal
The official LifeInCheck EBT Cardholder Portal, accessible from the Louisiana DCFS website, provides real-time information on your SNAP and EBT Cash benefits.
Go to lifeincheckebt.com and choose “Cardholder Login.”
For first-time access, choose “Create User ID” and register by entering your card number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your SSN. You will also create a username, password, and security questions.
Once signed in, your current Food (SNAP) and EBT Cash balances will be on the dashboard.
You can view, download, or print past activity by clicking “Transaction History.”
2. Use the Benny App
The Benny app allows you to check your Louisiana EBT funds directly from your smartphone.
Download the app from the App Store or Google Play and tap “Get Started.”
Select “Louisiana EBT,” then enter your card number and the ZIP code connected to your benefits.
Your current SNAP and EBT Cash balances will appear on the home screen. You can swipe to see your next deposit date and recent transactions.
The app also offers cash-back rewards on EBT purchases at participating stores like Walmart, Costco, Walgreens, and Trader Joe’s.
3. Call EBT Customer Service
You can get your balance information by calling the Louisiana EBT Customer Service line at 1-888-997-1117. This automated service is available 24/7, with support in multiple languages. More details on language access are available online.
Dial 1-888-997-1117 and choose your preferred language from the options.
Select the option for a balance inquiry and enter your 16-digit card number followed by your PIN.
An automated voice will read your SNAP balance first, then your EBT Cash balance. You can stay on the line to hear the amounts again or speak with an agent.
4. Use an ATM
Many ATMs displaying the Quest®, Cirrus®, or STAR® logos can show your EBT Cash balance. You can avoid fees by using a surcharge-free machine, which you can find using an Allpoint Locator.
Find a participating ATM near you.
Insert your Louisiana Purchase card, enter your PIN, and choose the “Balance Inquiry” option, followed by “Checking.”
The ATM screen will display your available EBT Cash balance, which is also printed on the receipt.
If an ATM only shows your EBT Cash funds, you can check your SNAP balance by looking at your last grocery receipt or by using the Benny app.
5. Look at Your Last Store Receipt
Every time you use your Louisiana Purchase card, the receipt will show your remaining balances.
After you complete a transaction, look near the bottom of the receipt for “EBT Food Bal” or “EBT Cash Bal.” The numbers listed are your updated, current balances.
Check Your SNAP & EBT Cash Balance in Seconds
Download the app
How Can I Keep My EBT Card Secure?
Phishing and spam attacks are on the rise across Louisiana, targeting EBT cardholders with increasing sophistication. These scams can take many forms, from deceptive text messages to tampered card readers. Recognizing the signs of fraud is the first step toward protecting your benefits and taking swift action.
How EBT Benefits Are Stolen
Thieves use several common tactics to gain unauthorized access to EBT funds.
Card skimming and cloning are significant threats in Louisiana, where tampered payment terminals have been discovered at local retailers. These devices illegally copy card information. Always inspect a point-of-sale machine for loose parts, hidden cameras, or mismatched keypads before swiping your card.
Another widespread method is phishing, often through text messages known as “smishing.” Scammers send fake alerts about a locked EBT account to trick you into clicking a link and entering your card number and PIN. Remember that government agencies will never ask for your private card details by phone, text, or email.
What To Do If Your Benefits Are Stolen
If you are a victim of theft, it is possible to have your benefits replaced under specific conditions. Federal law allows for the replacement of SNAP funds stolen through skimming, phishing, or cloning on or after October 1, 2022.
To file a claim for stolen SNAP benefits, you must take the following steps:
Report the theft to the Department of Children & Family Services (DCFS) within 30 days of discovering it.
Complete the required claim form for stolen benefits.
Keep any receipts or mobile app screenshots that can serve as proof of the fraudulent transactions.
Approved claims will be re-deposited within 10 business days. You may receive up to two reimbursements per federal fiscal year. To start a claim, call 1-888-LA-HELPU or visit a parish office.
However, the federal replacement rule does not cover EBT Cash programs like FITAP or TANF. While there is no automatic reimbursement policy for these funds, you should still report the fraud to DCFS, request a new card, and provide any law enforcement case numbers. Decisions on these cases are made individually.
Other Common Issues with EBT Cards and How to Resolve Them
Beyond security threats, you might run into other common problems with your Louisiana Purchase card. From delivery delays to declined transactions, knowing the right steps to take can help you resolve these issues quickly and access your benefits without interruption.
Card Never Arrives Or Arrives Late
Louisiana Purchase cards are mailed separately from approval letters, which can cause confusion. Delivery typically takes three to five business days, but this can be extended by postal service delays or if DCFS has an old address on file for your case.
If your card is more than ten business days late, call the LAHelpU Customer Service Center at 1-888-524-3578 to confirm your mailing address and ask for a new card.
While you wait, you can monitor your case through the CAFÉ Self-Service Portal or the LifeInCheck mobile app to see when your benefits are deposited.
Once the card arrives, sign the back immediately and choose a secure PIN.
Forgotten, Blocked, Or Rejected PIN
Entering the wrong PIN three times will freeze your card for the rest of the day as a security measure. The system will also prevent you from using simple, easy-to-guess number patterns like 1234 or your birth year.
You can reset your PIN at any time using the LifeInCheck app, on the LifeInCheckEBT.com website, or by calling the automated phone line at 1-888-997-1117.
If your account is frozen, you can either wait until after midnight for it to unlock automatically or reset your PIN immediately using one of the methods above.
Always create a non-sequential PIN and avoid writing it on your card.
Card Declined For Insufficient Funds
A declined transaction often happens if you try to shop before your monthly benefits have been deposited. SNAP funds are added on a fixed date between the 1st and 14th of each month. The payment may also fail if you select the wrong payment type at checkout or if your benefits have expired after nine months of inactivity.
Before shopping, confirm your current balance on your last receipt, by calling the number on your card, or by using the LifeInCheck portal or an app like Benny.
Check the benefit deposit calendar in the LifeInCheck app to find your exact payment date.
To prevent benefits from expiring, make at least one small purchase every few months.
When paying for groceries, always tell the cashier you are using EBT and choose the “EBT-SNAP” option on the card reader.
Helpful Links To Bookmark
DCFS Electronic Benefits Transfer Page: The official source for Louisiana EBT information.
LifeInCheck EBT Portal: Manage your card, check transactions, and reset your PIN online.
Benny App: A mobile app for checking your EBT balance and earning cashback.
USDA SNAP Retailer Locator: Find nearby stores that accept EBT payments.
Surcharge-Free ATM List: A list of ATMs where you can withdraw EBT Cash benefits without a fee.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cashback On SNAP
Download the app
Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny
Benny is a free app for tracking your EBT funds in real time and earning cashback on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, and Costco. To get started, you just need to link your EBT card. After you shop, scan your receipt with the app to receive money back on SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your spending and make your EBT benefits go further.
SHARE
Your EBT card holds your Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and/or EBT Cash benefits, such as from the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program. Keeping track of your available funds is a smart way to manage your budget and avoid coming up short at the checkout counter.
This guide details the different ways to check your EBT balance in Louisiana, from using a mobile app to calling EBT Customer Service.
How to Check Your EBT Balance in Louisiana
You can check your Louisiana EBT funds in several ways. These include logging into the online cardholder portal, using a mobile app, calling the 24/7 customer service hotline, making an inquiry at an ATM, or simply looking at your most recent store receipt. Each method gives you a quick snapshot of your available benefits.
1. Check Online via the EBT Cardholder Portal
The official LifeInCheck EBT Cardholder Portal, accessible from the Louisiana DCFS website, provides real-time information on your SNAP and EBT Cash benefits.
Go to lifeincheckebt.com and choose “Cardholder Login.”
For first-time access, choose “Create User ID” and register by entering your card number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your SSN. You will also create a username, password, and security questions.
Once signed in, your current Food (SNAP) and EBT Cash balances will be on the dashboard.
You can view, download, or print past activity by clicking “Transaction History.”
2. Use the Benny App
The Benny app allows you to check your Louisiana EBT funds directly from your smartphone.
Download the app from the App Store or Google Play and tap “Get Started.”
Select “Louisiana EBT,” then enter your card number and the ZIP code connected to your benefits.
Your current SNAP and EBT Cash balances will appear on the home screen. You can swipe to see your next deposit date and recent transactions.
The app also offers cash-back rewards on EBT purchases at participating stores like Walmart, Costco, Walgreens, and Trader Joe’s.
3. Call EBT Customer Service
You can get your balance information by calling the Louisiana EBT Customer Service line at 1-888-997-1117. This automated service is available 24/7, with support in multiple languages. More details on language access are available online.
Dial 1-888-997-1117 and choose your preferred language from the options.
Select the option for a balance inquiry and enter your 16-digit card number followed by your PIN.
An automated voice will read your SNAP balance first, then your EBT Cash balance. You can stay on the line to hear the amounts again or speak with an agent.
4. Use an ATM
Many ATMs displaying the Quest®, Cirrus®, or STAR® logos can show your EBT Cash balance. You can avoid fees by using a surcharge-free machine, which you can find using an Allpoint Locator.
Find a participating ATM near you.
Insert your Louisiana Purchase card, enter your PIN, and choose the “Balance Inquiry” option, followed by “Checking.”
The ATM screen will display your available EBT Cash balance, which is also printed on the receipt.
If an ATM only shows your EBT Cash funds, you can check your SNAP balance by looking at your last grocery receipt or by using the Benny app.
5. Look at Your Last Store Receipt
Every time you use your Louisiana Purchase card, the receipt will show your remaining balances.
After you complete a transaction, look near the bottom of the receipt for “EBT Food Bal” or “EBT Cash Bal.” The numbers listed are your updated, current balances.
Check Your SNAP & EBT Cash Balance in Seconds
Download the app
How Can I Keep My EBT Card Secure?
Phishing and spam attacks are on the rise across Louisiana, targeting EBT cardholders with increasing sophistication. These scams can take many forms, from deceptive text messages to tampered card readers. Recognizing the signs of fraud is the first step toward protecting your benefits and taking swift action.
How EBT Benefits Are Stolen
Thieves use several common tactics to gain unauthorized access to EBT funds.
Card skimming and cloning are significant threats in Louisiana, where tampered payment terminals have been discovered at local retailers. These devices illegally copy card information. Always inspect a point-of-sale machine for loose parts, hidden cameras, or mismatched keypads before swiping your card.
Another widespread method is phishing, often through text messages known as “smishing.” Scammers send fake alerts about a locked EBT account to trick you into clicking a link and entering your card number and PIN. Remember that government agencies will never ask for your private card details by phone, text, or email.
What To Do If Your Benefits Are Stolen
If you are a victim of theft, it is possible to have your benefits replaced under specific conditions. Federal law allows for the replacement of SNAP funds stolen through skimming, phishing, or cloning on or after October 1, 2022.
To file a claim for stolen SNAP benefits, you must take the following steps:
Report the theft to the Department of Children & Family Services (DCFS) within 30 days of discovering it.
Complete the required claim form for stolen benefits.
Keep any receipts or mobile app screenshots that can serve as proof of the fraudulent transactions.
Approved claims will be re-deposited within 10 business days. You may receive up to two reimbursements per federal fiscal year. To start a claim, call 1-888-LA-HELPU or visit a parish office.
However, the federal replacement rule does not cover EBT Cash programs like FITAP or TANF. While there is no automatic reimbursement policy for these funds, you should still report the fraud to DCFS, request a new card, and provide any law enforcement case numbers. Decisions on these cases are made individually.
Other Common Issues with EBT Cards and How to Resolve Them
Beyond security threats, you might run into other common problems with your Louisiana Purchase card. From delivery delays to declined transactions, knowing the right steps to take can help you resolve these issues quickly and access your benefits without interruption.
Card Never Arrives Or Arrives Late
Louisiana Purchase cards are mailed separately from approval letters, which can cause confusion. Delivery typically takes three to five business days, but this can be extended by postal service delays or if DCFS has an old address on file for your case.
If your card is more than ten business days late, call the LAHelpU Customer Service Center at 1-888-524-3578 to confirm your mailing address and ask for a new card.
While you wait, you can monitor your case through the CAFÉ Self-Service Portal or the LifeInCheck mobile app to see when your benefits are deposited.
Once the card arrives, sign the back immediately and choose a secure PIN.
Forgotten, Blocked, Or Rejected PIN
Entering the wrong PIN three times will freeze your card for the rest of the day as a security measure. The system will also prevent you from using simple, easy-to-guess number patterns like 1234 or your birth year.
You can reset your PIN at any time using the LifeInCheck app, on the LifeInCheckEBT.com website, or by calling the automated phone line at 1-888-997-1117.
If your account is frozen, you can either wait until after midnight for it to unlock automatically or reset your PIN immediately using one of the methods above.
Always create a non-sequential PIN and avoid writing it on your card.
Card Declined For Insufficient Funds
A declined transaction often happens if you try to shop before your monthly benefits have been deposited. SNAP funds are added on a fixed date between the 1st and 14th of each month. The payment may also fail if you select the wrong payment type at checkout or if your benefits have expired after nine months of inactivity.
Before shopping, confirm your current balance on your last receipt, by calling the number on your card, or by using the LifeInCheck portal or an app like Benny.
Check the benefit deposit calendar in the LifeInCheck app to find your exact payment date.
To prevent benefits from expiring, make at least one small purchase every few months.
When paying for groceries, always tell the cashier you are using EBT and choose the “EBT-SNAP” option on the card reader.
Helpful Links To Bookmark
DCFS Electronic Benefits Transfer Page: The official source for Louisiana EBT information.
LifeInCheck EBT Portal: Manage your card, check transactions, and reset your PIN online.
Benny App: A mobile app for checking your EBT balance and earning cashback.
USDA SNAP Retailer Locator: Find nearby stores that accept EBT payments.
Surcharge-Free ATM List: A list of ATMs where you can withdraw EBT Cash benefits without a fee.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cashback On SNAP
Download the app
Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny
Benny is a free app for tracking your EBT funds in real time and earning cashback on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, and Costco. To get started, you just need to link your EBT card. After you shop, scan your receipt with the app to receive money back on SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your spending and make your EBT benefits go further.
SHARE
Your EBT card holds your Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and/or EBT Cash benefits, such as from the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program. Keeping track of your available funds is a smart way to manage your budget and avoid coming up short at the checkout counter.
This guide details the different ways to check your EBT balance in Louisiana, from using a mobile app to calling EBT Customer Service.
How to Check Your EBT Balance in Louisiana
You can check your Louisiana EBT funds in several ways. These include logging into the online cardholder portal, using a mobile app, calling the 24/7 customer service hotline, making an inquiry at an ATM, or simply looking at your most recent store receipt. Each method gives you a quick snapshot of your available benefits.
1. Check Online via the EBT Cardholder Portal
The official LifeInCheck EBT Cardholder Portal, accessible from the Louisiana DCFS website, provides real-time information on your SNAP and EBT Cash benefits.
Go to lifeincheckebt.com and choose “Cardholder Login.”
For first-time access, choose “Create User ID” and register by entering your card number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your SSN. You will also create a username, password, and security questions.
Once signed in, your current Food (SNAP) and EBT Cash balances will be on the dashboard.
You can view, download, or print past activity by clicking “Transaction History.”
2. Use the Benny App
The Benny app allows you to check your Louisiana EBT funds directly from your smartphone.
Download the app from the App Store or Google Play and tap “Get Started.”
Select “Louisiana EBT,” then enter your card number and the ZIP code connected to your benefits.
Your current SNAP and EBT Cash balances will appear on the home screen. You can swipe to see your next deposit date and recent transactions.
The app also offers cash-back rewards on EBT purchases at participating stores like Walmart, Costco, Walgreens, and Trader Joe’s.
3. Call EBT Customer Service
You can get your balance information by calling the Louisiana EBT Customer Service line at 1-888-997-1117. This automated service is available 24/7, with support in multiple languages. More details on language access are available online.
Dial 1-888-997-1117 and choose your preferred language from the options.
Select the option for a balance inquiry and enter your 16-digit card number followed by your PIN.
An automated voice will read your SNAP balance first, then your EBT Cash balance. You can stay on the line to hear the amounts again or speak with an agent.
4. Use an ATM
Many ATMs displaying the Quest®, Cirrus®, or STAR® logos can show your EBT Cash balance. You can avoid fees by using a surcharge-free machine, which you can find using an Allpoint Locator.
Find a participating ATM near you.
Insert your Louisiana Purchase card, enter your PIN, and choose the “Balance Inquiry” option, followed by “Checking.”
The ATM screen will display your available EBT Cash balance, which is also printed on the receipt.
If an ATM only shows your EBT Cash funds, you can check your SNAP balance by looking at your last grocery receipt or by using the Benny app.
5. Look at Your Last Store Receipt
Every time you use your Louisiana Purchase card, the receipt will show your remaining balances.
After you complete a transaction, look near the bottom of the receipt for “EBT Food Bal” or “EBT Cash Bal.” The numbers listed are your updated, current balances.
Check Your SNAP & EBT Cash Balance in Seconds
Download the app
How Can I Keep My EBT Card Secure?
Phishing and spam attacks are on the rise across Louisiana, targeting EBT cardholders with increasing sophistication. These scams can take many forms, from deceptive text messages to tampered card readers. Recognizing the signs of fraud is the first step toward protecting your benefits and taking swift action.
How EBT Benefits Are Stolen
Thieves use several common tactics to gain unauthorized access to EBT funds.
Card skimming and cloning are significant threats in Louisiana, where tampered payment terminals have been discovered at local retailers. These devices illegally copy card information. Always inspect a point-of-sale machine for loose parts, hidden cameras, or mismatched keypads before swiping your card.
Another widespread method is phishing, often through text messages known as “smishing.” Scammers send fake alerts about a locked EBT account to trick you into clicking a link and entering your card number and PIN. Remember that government agencies will never ask for your private card details by phone, text, or email.
What To Do If Your Benefits Are Stolen
If you are a victim of theft, it is possible to have your benefits replaced under specific conditions. Federal law allows for the replacement of SNAP funds stolen through skimming, phishing, or cloning on or after October 1, 2022.
To file a claim for stolen SNAP benefits, you must take the following steps:
Report the theft to the Department of Children & Family Services (DCFS) within 30 days of discovering it.
Complete the required claim form for stolen benefits.
Keep any receipts or mobile app screenshots that can serve as proof of the fraudulent transactions.
Approved claims will be re-deposited within 10 business days. You may receive up to two reimbursements per federal fiscal year. To start a claim, call 1-888-LA-HELPU or visit a parish office.
However, the federal replacement rule does not cover EBT Cash programs like FITAP or TANF. While there is no automatic reimbursement policy for these funds, you should still report the fraud to DCFS, request a new card, and provide any law enforcement case numbers. Decisions on these cases are made individually.
Other Common Issues with EBT Cards and How to Resolve Them
Beyond security threats, you might run into other common problems with your Louisiana Purchase card. From delivery delays to declined transactions, knowing the right steps to take can help you resolve these issues quickly and access your benefits without interruption.
Card Never Arrives Or Arrives Late
Louisiana Purchase cards are mailed separately from approval letters, which can cause confusion. Delivery typically takes three to five business days, but this can be extended by postal service delays or if DCFS has an old address on file for your case.
If your card is more than ten business days late, call the LAHelpU Customer Service Center at 1-888-524-3578 to confirm your mailing address and ask for a new card.
While you wait, you can monitor your case through the CAFÉ Self-Service Portal or the LifeInCheck mobile app to see when your benefits are deposited.
Once the card arrives, sign the back immediately and choose a secure PIN.
Forgotten, Blocked, Or Rejected PIN
Entering the wrong PIN three times will freeze your card for the rest of the day as a security measure. The system will also prevent you from using simple, easy-to-guess number patterns like 1234 or your birth year.
You can reset your PIN at any time using the LifeInCheck app, on the LifeInCheckEBT.com website, or by calling the automated phone line at 1-888-997-1117.
If your account is frozen, you can either wait until after midnight for it to unlock automatically or reset your PIN immediately using one of the methods above.
Always create a non-sequential PIN and avoid writing it on your card.
Card Declined For Insufficient Funds
A declined transaction often happens if you try to shop before your monthly benefits have been deposited. SNAP funds are added on a fixed date between the 1st and 14th of each month. The payment may also fail if you select the wrong payment type at checkout or if your benefits have expired after nine months of inactivity.
Before shopping, confirm your current balance on your last receipt, by calling the number on your card, or by using the LifeInCheck portal or an app like Benny.
Check the benefit deposit calendar in the LifeInCheck app to find your exact payment date.
To prevent benefits from expiring, make at least one small purchase every few months.
When paying for groceries, always tell the cashier you are using EBT and choose the “EBT-SNAP” option on the card reader.
Helpful Links To Bookmark
DCFS Electronic Benefits Transfer Page: The official source for Louisiana EBT information.
LifeInCheck EBT Portal: Manage your card, check transactions, and reset your PIN online.
Benny App: A mobile app for checking your EBT balance and earning cashback.
USDA SNAP Retailer Locator: Find nearby stores that accept EBT payments.
Surcharge-Free ATM List: A list of ATMs where you can withdraw EBT Cash benefits without a fee.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cashback On SNAP
Download the app
Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny
Benny is a free app for tracking your EBT funds in real time and earning cashback on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, and Costco. To get started, you just need to link your EBT card. After you shop, scan your receipt with the app to receive money back on SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your spending and make your EBT benefits go further.
SHARE
Your EBT card holds your Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and/or EBT Cash benefits, such as from the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program. Keeping track of your available funds is a smart way to manage your budget and avoid coming up short at the checkout counter.
This guide details the different ways to check your EBT balance in Louisiana, from using a mobile app to calling EBT Customer Service.
How to Check Your EBT Balance in Louisiana
You can check your Louisiana EBT funds in several ways. These include logging into the online cardholder portal, using a mobile app, calling the 24/7 customer service hotline, making an inquiry at an ATM, or simply looking at your most recent store receipt. Each method gives you a quick snapshot of your available benefits.
1. Check Online via the EBT Cardholder Portal
The official LifeInCheck EBT Cardholder Portal, accessible from the Louisiana DCFS website, provides real-time information on your SNAP and EBT Cash benefits.
Go to lifeincheckebt.com and choose “Cardholder Login.”
For first-time access, choose “Create User ID” and register by entering your card number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your SSN. You will also create a username, password, and security questions.
Once signed in, your current Food (SNAP) and EBT Cash balances will be on the dashboard.
You can view, download, or print past activity by clicking “Transaction History.”
2. Use the Benny App
The Benny app allows you to check your Louisiana EBT funds directly from your smartphone.
Download the app from the App Store or Google Play and tap “Get Started.”
Select “Louisiana EBT,” then enter your card number and the ZIP code connected to your benefits.
Your current SNAP and EBT Cash balances will appear on the home screen. You can swipe to see your next deposit date and recent transactions.
The app also offers cash-back rewards on EBT purchases at participating stores like Walmart, Costco, Walgreens, and Trader Joe’s.
3. Call EBT Customer Service
You can get your balance information by calling the Louisiana EBT Customer Service line at 1-888-997-1117. This automated service is available 24/7, with support in multiple languages. More details on language access are available online.
Dial 1-888-997-1117 and choose your preferred language from the options.
Select the option for a balance inquiry and enter your 16-digit card number followed by your PIN.
An automated voice will read your SNAP balance first, then your EBT Cash balance. You can stay on the line to hear the amounts again or speak with an agent.
4. Use an ATM
Many ATMs displaying the Quest®, Cirrus®, or STAR® logos can show your EBT Cash balance. You can avoid fees by using a surcharge-free machine, which you can find using an Allpoint Locator.
Find a participating ATM near you.
Insert your Louisiana Purchase card, enter your PIN, and choose the “Balance Inquiry” option, followed by “Checking.”
The ATM screen will display your available EBT Cash balance, which is also printed on the receipt.
If an ATM only shows your EBT Cash funds, you can check your SNAP balance by looking at your last grocery receipt or by using the Benny app.
5. Look at Your Last Store Receipt
Every time you use your Louisiana Purchase card, the receipt will show your remaining balances.
After you complete a transaction, look near the bottom of the receipt for “EBT Food Bal” or “EBT Cash Bal.” The numbers listed are your updated, current balances.
Check Your SNAP & EBT Cash Balance in Seconds
Download the app
How Can I Keep My EBT Card Secure?
Phishing and spam attacks are on the rise across Louisiana, targeting EBT cardholders with increasing sophistication. These scams can take many forms, from deceptive text messages to tampered card readers. Recognizing the signs of fraud is the first step toward protecting your benefits and taking swift action.
How EBT Benefits Are Stolen
Thieves use several common tactics to gain unauthorized access to EBT funds.
Card skimming and cloning are significant threats in Louisiana, where tampered payment terminals have been discovered at local retailers. These devices illegally copy card information. Always inspect a point-of-sale machine for loose parts, hidden cameras, or mismatched keypads before swiping your card.
Another widespread method is phishing, often through text messages known as “smishing.” Scammers send fake alerts about a locked EBT account to trick you into clicking a link and entering your card number and PIN. Remember that government agencies will never ask for your private card details by phone, text, or email.
What To Do If Your Benefits Are Stolen
If you are a victim of theft, it is possible to have your benefits replaced under specific conditions. Federal law allows for the replacement of SNAP funds stolen through skimming, phishing, or cloning on or after October 1, 2022.
To file a claim for stolen SNAP benefits, you must take the following steps:
Report the theft to the Department of Children & Family Services (DCFS) within 30 days of discovering it.
Complete the required claim form for stolen benefits.
Keep any receipts or mobile app screenshots that can serve as proof of the fraudulent transactions.
Approved claims will be re-deposited within 10 business days. You may receive up to two reimbursements per federal fiscal year. To start a claim, call 1-888-LA-HELPU or visit a parish office.
However, the federal replacement rule does not cover EBT Cash programs like FITAP or TANF. While there is no automatic reimbursement policy for these funds, you should still report the fraud to DCFS, request a new card, and provide any law enforcement case numbers. Decisions on these cases are made individually.
Other Common Issues with EBT Cards and How to Resolve Them
Beyond security threats, you might run into other common problems with your Louisiana Purchase card. From delivery delays to declined transactions, knowing the right steps to take can help you resolve these issues quickly and access your benefits without interruption.
Card Never Arrives Or Arrives Late
Louisiana Purchase cards are mailed separately from approval letters, which can cause confusion. Delivery typically takes three to five business days, but this can be extended by postal service delays or if DCFS has an old address on file for your case.
If your card is more than ten business days late, call the LAHelpU Customer Service Center at 1-888-524-3578 to confirm your mailing address and ask for a new card.
While you wait, you can monitor your case through the CAFÉ Self-Service Portal or the LifeInCheck mobile app to see when your benefits are deposited.
Once the card arrives, sign the back immediately and choose a secure PIN.
Forgotten, Blocked, Or Rejected PIN
Entering the wrong PIN three times will freeze your card for the rest of the day as a security measure. The system will also prevent you from using simple, easy-to-guess number patterns like 1234 or your birth year.
You can reset your PIN at any time using the LifeInCheck app, on the LifeInCheckEBT.com website, or by calling the automated phone line at 1-888-997-1117.
If your account is frozen, you can either wait until after midnight for it to unlock automatically or reset your PIN immediately using one of the methods above.
Always create a non-sequential PIN and avoid writing it on your card.
Card Declined For Insufficient Funds
A declined transaction often happens if you try to shop before your monthly benefits have been deposited. SNAP funds are added on a fixed date between the 1st and 14th of each month. The payment may also fail if you select the wrong payment type at checkout or if your benefits have expired after nine months of inactivity.
Before shopping, confirm your current balance on your last receipt, by calling the number on your card, or by using the LifeInCheck portal or an app like Benny.
Check the benefit deposit calendar in the LifeInCheck app to find your exact payment date.
To prevent benefits from expiring, make at least one small purchase every few months.
When paying for groceries, always tell the cashier you are using EBT and choose the “EBT-SNAP” option on the card reader.
Helpful Links To Bookmark
DCFS Electronic Benefits Transfer Page: The official source for Louisiana EBT information.
LifeInCheck EBT Portal: Manage your card, check transactions, and reset your PIN online.
Benny App: A mobile app for checking your EBT balance and earning cashback.
USDA SNAP Retailer Locator: Find nearby stores that accept EBT payments.
Surcharge-Free ATM List: A list of ATMs where you can withdraw EBT Cash benefits without a fee.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cashback On SNAP
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Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny
Benny is a free app for tracking your EBT funds in real time and earning cashback on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, and Costco. To get started, you just need to link your EBT card. After you shop, scan your receipt with the app to receive money back on SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your spending and make your EBT benefits go further.
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Your EBT card holds your Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and/or EBT Cash benefits, such as from the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program. Keeping track of your available funds is a smart way to manage your budget and avoid coming up short at the checkout counter.
This guide details the different ways to check your EBT balance in Louisiana, from using a mobile app to calling EBT Customer Service.
How to Check Your EBT Balance in Louisiana
You can check your Louisiana EBT funds in several ways. These include logging into the online cardholder portal, using a mobile app, calling the 24/7 customer service hotline, making an inquiry at an ATM, or simply looking at your most recent store receipt. Each method gives you a quick snapshot of your available benefits.
1. Check Online via the EBT Cardholder Portal
The official LifeInCheck EBT Cardholder Portal, accessible from the Louisiana DCFS website, provides real-time information on your SNAP and EBT Cash benefits.
Go to lifeincheckebt.com and choose “Cardholder Login.”
For first-time access, choose “Create User ID” and register by entering your card number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your SSN. You will also create a username, password, and security questions.
Once signed in, your current Food (SNAP) and EBT Cash balances will be on the dashboard.
You can view, download, or print past activity by clicking “Transaction History.”
2. Use the Benny App
The Benny app allows you to check your Louisiana EBT funds directly from your smartphone.
Download the app from the App Store or Google Play and tap “Get Started.”
Select “Louisiana EBT,” then enter your card number and the ZIP code connected to your benefits.
Your current SNAP and EBT Cash balances will appear on the home screen. You can swipe to see your next deposit date and recent transactions.
The app also offers cash-back rewards on EBT purchases at participating stores like Walmart, Costco, Walgreens, and Trader Joe’s.
3. Call EBT Customer Service
You can get your balance information by calling the Louisiana EBT Customer Service line at 1-888-997-1117. This automated service is available 24/7, with support in multiple languages. More details on language access are available online.
Dial 1-888-997-1117 and choose your preferred language from the options.
Select the option for a balance inquiry and enter your 16-digit card number followed by your PIN.
An automated voice will read your SNAP balance first, then your EBT Cash balance. You can stay on the line to hear the amounts again or speak with an agent.
4. Use an ATM
Many ATMs displaying the Quest®, Cirrus®, or STAR® logos can show your EBT Cash balance. You can avoid fees by using a surcharge-free machine, which you can find using an Allpoint Locator.
Find a participating ATM near you.
Insert your Louisiana Purchase card, enter your PIN, and choose the “Balance Inquiry” option, followed by “Checking.”
The ATM screen will display your available EBT Cash balance, which is also printed on the receipt.
If an ATM only shows your EBT Cash funds, you can check your SNAP balance by looking at your last grocery receipt or by using the Benny app.
5. Look at Your Last Store Receipt
Every time you use your Louisiana Purchase card, the receipt will show your remaining balances.
After you complete a transaction, look near the bottom of the receipt for “EBT Food Bal” or “EBT Cash Bal.” The numbers listed are your updated, current balances.
Check Your SNAP & EBT Cash Balance in Seconds
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How Can I Keep My EBT Card Secure?
Phishing and spam attacks are on the rise across Louisiana, targeting EBT cardholders with increasing sophistication. These scams can take many forms, from deceptive text messages to tampered card readers. Recognizing the signs of fraud is the first step toward protecting your benefits and taking swift action.
How EBT Benefits Are Stolen
Thieves use several common tactics to gain unauthorized access to EBT funds.
Card skimming and cloning are significant threats in Louisiana, where tampered payment terminals have been discovered at local retailers. These devices illegally copy card information. Always inspect a point-of-sale machine for loose parts, hidden cameras, or mismatched keypads before swiping your card.
Another widespread method is phishing, often through text messages known as “smishing.” Scammers send fake alerts about a locked EBT account to trick you into clicking a link and entering your card number and PIN. Remember that government agencies will never ask for your private card details by phone, text, or email.
What To Do If Your Benefits Are Stolen
If you are a victim of theft, it is possible to have your benefits replaced under specific conditions. Federal law allows for the replacement of SNAP funds stolen through skimming, phishing, or cloning on or after October 1, 2022.
To file a claim for stolen SNAP benefits, you must take the following steps:
Report the theft to the Department of Children & Family Services (DCFS) within 30 days of discovering it.
Complete the required claim form for stolen benefits.
Keep any receipts or mobile app screenshots that can serve as proof of the fraudulent transactions.
Approved claims will be re-deposited within 10 business days. You may receive up to two reimbursements per federal fiscal year. To start a claim, call 1-888-LA-HELPU or visit a parish office.
However, the federal replacement rule does not cover EBT Cash programs like FITAP or TANF. While there is no automatic reimbursement policy for these funds, you should still report the fraud to DCFS, request a new card, and provide any law enforcement case numbers. Decisions on these cases are made individually.
Other Common Issues with EBT Cards and How to Resolve Them
Beyond security threats, you might run into other common problems with your Louisiana Purchase card. From delivery delays to declined transactions, knowing the right steps to take can help you resolve these issues quickly and access your benefits without interruption.
Card Never Arrives Or Arrives Late
Louisiana Purchase cards are mailed separately from approval letters, which can cause confusion. Delivery typically takes three to five business days, but this can be extended by postal service delays or if DCFS has an old address on file for your case.
If your card is more than ten business days late, call the LAHelpU Customer Service Center at 1-888-524-3578 to confirm your mailing address and ask for a new card.
While you wait, you can monitor your case through the CAFÉ Self-Service Portal or the LifeInCheck mobile app to see when your benefits are deposited.
Once the card arrives, sign the back immediately and choose a secure PIN.
Forgotten, Blocked, Or Rejected PIN
Entering the wrong PIN three times will freeze your card for the rest of the day as a security measure. The system will also prevent you from using simple, easy-to-guess number patterns like 1234 or your birth year.
You can reset your PIN at any time using the LifeInCheck app, on the LifeInCheckEBT.com website, or by calling the automated phone line at 1-888-997-1117.
If your account is frozen, you can either wait until after midnight for it to unlock automatically or reset your PIN immediately using one of the methods above.
Always create a non-sequential PIN and avoid writing it on your card.
Card Declined For Insufficient Funds
A declined transaction often happens if you try to shop before your monthly benefits have been deposited. SNAP funds are added on a fixed date between the 1st and 14th of each month. The payment may also fail if you select the wrong payment type at checkout or if your benefits have expired after nine months of inactivity.
Before shopping, confirm your current balance on your last receipt, by calling the number on your card, or by using the LifeInCheck portal or an app like Benny.
Check the benefit deposit calendar in the LifeInCheck app to find your exact payment date.
To prevent benefits from expiring, make at least one small purchase every few months.
When paying for groceries, always tell the cashier you are using EBT and choose the “EBT-SNAP” option on the card reader.
Helpful Links To Bookmark
DCFS Electronic Benefits Transfer Page: The official source for Louisiana EBT information.
LifeInCheck EBT Portal: Manage your card, check transactions, and reset your PIN online.
Benny App: A mobile app for checking your EBT balance and earning cashback.
USDA SNAP Retailer Locator: Find nearby stores that accept EBT payments.
Surcharge-Free ATM List: A list of ATMs where you can withdraw EBT Cash benefits without a fee.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cashback On SNAP
Download the app
Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny
Benny is a free app for tracking your EBT funds in real time and earning cashback on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, and Costco. To get started, you just need to link your EBT card. After you shop, scan your receipt with the app to receive money back on SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your spending and make your EBT benefits go further.
