Why Your EBT Deposit Might Be Late and What to Do

Several factors can delay your EBT deposit, from local office backlogs to statewide system updates. Understanding these common issues can help clarify why your benefits might not have arrived on schedule.

County Processing Backlogs and Staff Shortages

Many county DSS offices in North Carolina are dealing with significant backlogs. Vacant positions, the lengthy training process for new workers, and forced overtime can slow down the approval and release of benefits, pushing back deposit dates for many families.

Post-Pandemic Surge in Recertifications

The end of pandemic-era waivers reinstated standard interview and paperwork requirements. This change created a massive wave of new and renewal applications that overwhelmed staff capacity in many counties, leading to delays in issuing benefits.

Administrative or Eligibility Snags

Your case can be put on hold if required paperwork, like a recertification or six-month review form, is missing or incomplete. Payments may also stop if you have not provided verification for income, expenses, or identity. Other holds can result from sanctions for not meeting work rules or manual reviews tied to suspected fraud.

Computer System Glitches or Upgrades

Technical problems with NC FAST, the state's eligibility software, can also cause delays. Errors and slow processing have occurred when new modules are added or data is moved. Even a simple change of address can sometimes stall the release of benefits within this system.

Statewide Payment Platform Changes

Occasionally, the entire payment system undergoes an overhaul. When North Carolina's DHHS switched to a new accounting system, it temporarily froze millions in benefit payments. Such back-end software transitions can delay deposits even after your case has been approved.

Do EBT Benefits Expire or Roll Over?

In North Carolina, unused Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) and Work First cash benefits automatically roll over each month, allowing your balance to accumulate. These funds will be permanently removed, however, if your account remains inactive for 365 consecutive days.

Any qualifying transaction, such as a food purchase, cash withdrawal, or balance inquiry, resets the one-year clock. This inactivity rule is based on federal EBT regulations. Once benefits are expunged, they cannot be recovered.

How to Make Your EBT Benefits Last the Whole Month

Running out of food benefits before the end of the month is a common stressor, but it does not have to be your reality. With some smart planning and intentional spending, you can stretch your budget further. Adopting a few new habits can make a significant difference in keeping your pantry stocked until the next deposit arrives.

Track Your Balance in Real Time

Knowing exactly what you have to spend is the first step in managing your budget. Before you shop, open an app like Benny to see your real-time EBT balance. This simple check helps you make informed decisions on what to buy now and what can wait.

Earn Cashback on Groceries

Certain apps and stores can return a portion of what you spend directly to your card. The Benny app flags participating stores that offer EBT-eligible cashback on your purchases. These include major chains like:

• Walmart

• Costco

• Walgreens

• Trader Joe’s

Shop Online to Avoid Impulse Buys

Sticking to a shopping list is easier when you are not walking past tempting displays. Place your main grocery orders online with retailers authorized for EBT checkout in North Carolina, such as Aldi, Food Lion, and Walmart. Use free store pickup to eliminate impulse buys that drain your benefits.

Double Your Dollars at Farmers Markets

You can get more fresh produce for your money through North Carolina’s “Double Bucks” program. At participating markets, you can get a Double Bucks match. Simply swipe your EBT card at the market’s information booth, and they will double the amount you choose to spend on fruits and vegetables.

Buy Produce That Is in Season

Planning meals around what is abundant and cheap can lower your grocery bill. Use the Cooperative Extension’s seasonal produce guides to see when items like berries and sweet potatoes are at their lowest price. Batch-cooking and freezing these items creates low-cost meal components for later.