5 Ways to Check Your California EBT Balance
Quickly check your California EBT balance online, with the Benny app, or by phone using our simple step-by-step guide.
Oct 6, 2025
Steve Austin
5 Ways to Check Your California EBT Balance
Quickly check your California EBT balance online, with the Benny app, or by phone using our simple step-by-step guide.
Oct 6, 2025
Steve Austin
5 Ways to Check Your California EBT Balance
Quickly check your California EBT balance online, with the Benny app, or by phone using our simple step-by-step guide.
Oct 6, 2025
Steve Austin
5 Ways to Check Your California EBT Balance
Quickly check your California EBT balance online, with the Benny app, or by phone using our simple step-by-step guide.
Oct 6, 2025
Steve Austin
5 Ways to Check Your California EBT Balance
Quickly check your California EBT balance online, with the Benny app, or by phone using our simple step-by-step guide.
Oct 6, 2025
Steve Austin
SHARE
ON THIS PAGE
Your EBT card provides access to benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and EBT Cash, such as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). Effectively managing these funds helps with budgeting and prevents unexpected shortages at the checkout.
This guide explains the different ways to check your EBT balance in California, from using a mobile app to calling the customer service line.
How to Check Your EBT Balance in California
You can check your California EBT balance online through the cardholder website, with the Benny mobile app, by calling the customer service hotline, or by checking your last store receipt. You can also use a point-of-sale terminal at a store or an ATM, though ATMs typically only show your EBT Cash funds.
1. Check Online via the EBT Cardholder Website
Accessing your account information on the official state website is a straightforward way to view your current funds.
Go to the EBT Cardholder Website and choose “Cardholder Login.”
Enter your 16-digit EBT card number.
Provide your User ID and Password.
Click “Account Balance” to see your separate Food and EBT Cash totals.
2. Use the Benny Mobile App
Using a mobile app on your smartphone provides a quick way to see your balance anytime.
Download the Benny app for iOS or Android.
Sign up with your phone number or email and enter your zip code.
Link your EBT card to your account.
Your Food and EBT Cash balances will appear on the dashboard and refresh automatically.
The Benny app also gives you automatic cashback when you use your EBT card for purchases at participating retailers.
3. Call the Customer Service Line
Calling the 24-hour automated phone line allows you to hear your balance and recent transaction history.
Dial the toll-free number at 1-877-328-9677.
Choose your preferred language. Support for more languages is available.
Enter your 16-digit EBT card number and your PIN when prompted.
An automated voice will read your current Food and EBT Cash balances.
4. Look at Store Receipts or POS Terminals
Checking your balance while you are at the grocery store can be done either before or after you shop.
After making a purchase with your EBT card, your printed receipt will show your remaining Food and EBT Cash funds.
Many stores also allow you to perform a balance inquiry at the checkout terminal before you pay. Simply insert your card, select the balance inquiry option, and enter your PIN to see your funds displayed on the screen.
5. Visit an ATM
Using an ATM is an option for checking your EBT Cash balance, but it will not show your SNAP food benefits.
Find an ATM that displays the Quest® logo.
Insert your EBT card and enter your PIN.
Select “Balance Inquiry” from the "Checking" account options to view your EBT Cash balance.
Since ATMs only show EBT Cash funds, you can check your SNAP balance by looking at your last grocery receipt or by using the Benny app.
To avoid extra charges, it is best to use surcharge-free ATMs.
Check Your SNAP & EBT Cash Balance in Seconds
Download the app
How Can I Keep My EBT Card Secure?
Phishing and spam attacks are surging across California, with thieves using increasingly sophisticated methods to target EBT users. Recognizing the different forms these scams can take is the first step in protecting your benefits from electronic theft.
How EBT Benefits Are Stolen
Thieves use several methods to steal benefits. Hardware skimmers are placed over card readers to copy data, while phishing texts and calls trick you into revealing your card number and PIN. State or county workers will never ask for this information by text, call, or email.
What To Do If Your Benefits Are Stolen
You may be eligible for a replacement if your benefits are stolen electronically. For CalFresh benefits stolen after October 1, 2022, report the theft within 10 days and submit Form EBT-2259 within 90 days. CalWORKs EBT Cash can also be replaced through this process, but only once in a 36-month period.
Other Common Issues with EBT Cards and How to Resolve Them
Beyond security threats, everyday issues can disrupt access to your benefits. Here are three common problems California EBT cardholders face and the steps you can take to resolve them.
Transaction Declined at Checkout
A point-of-sale terminal might reject your purchase for several reasons, even with available benefits. Common causes include an unauthorized store, a damaged card stripe, an incorrect PIN, or a balance that is too low for the transaction.
First, check your balance before you shop by calling 1-877-328-9677 or checking your last receipt. You can also download the Benny app for a real-time total.
If your balance is sufficient, try the card again, making sure you enter the correct PIN.
If the card looks scratched or damaged, call the EBT Customer Service line to request a replacement, which typically arrives within 5-7 business days.
Forgotten or Locked PIN
For security, your card will lock if the wrong PIN is entered four consecutive times. This can happen if you forget the number, or if a child or caregiver accidentally enters it incorrectly.
Call EBT Customer Service at 1-877-328-9677 and follow the prompts for your PIN. You will need to verify your identity using your card number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your SSN.
After verification, you can create a new 4-digit PIN. Keep it private and never write it on the card.
You may also change your PIN through the California EBT portal or by visiting a county office.
Expired or Damaged Card
California EBT cards typically expire every four years, though they may need replacement sooner if they become worn, warped, or unreadable by store terminals. The expiration date is printed on the front of the card.
Call EBT Customer Service to order a free replacement. Your benefits schedule will remain the same.
Confirm your mailing address is correct with the customer service agent.
If you need a card immediately, ask your county worker if a same-day emergency card is available for pickup at a local office.
Once your new card arrives and is activated, destroy the old one.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cashback On SNAP
Download the app
Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny
With the free Benny app, you can monitor your EBT balance in real time and earn cashback on qualifying purchases from retailers like Walmart, Target, Kroger, and Costco. To get started, simply link your EBT card in the app. After you shop, scan your receipt with Benny to receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.
SHARE
Your EBT card provides access to benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and EBT Cash, such as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). Effectively managing these funds helps with budgeting and prevents unexpected shortages at the checkout.
This guide explains the different ways to check your EBT balance in California, from using a mobile app to calling the customer service line.
How to Check Your EBT Balance in California
You can check your California EBT balance online through the cardholder website, with the Benny mobile app, by calling the customer service hotline, or by checking your last store receipt. You can also use a point-of-sale terminal at a store or an ATM, though ATMs typically only show your EBT Cash funds.
1. Check Online via the EBT Cardholder Website
Accessing your account information on the official state website is a straightforward way to view your current funds.
Go to the EBT Cardholder Website and choose “Cardholder Login.”
Enter your 16-digit EBT card number.
Provide your User ID and Password.
Click “Account Balance” to see your separate Food and EBT Cash totals.
2. Use the Benny Mobile App
Using a mobile app on your smartphone provides a quick way to see your balance anytime.
Download the Benny app for iOS or Android.
Sign up with your phone number or email and enter your zip code.
Link your EBT card to your account.
Your Food and EBT Cash balances will appear on the dashboard and refresh automatically.
The Benny app also gives you automatic cashback when you use your EBT card for purchases at participating retailers.
3. Call the Customer Service Line
Calling the 24-hour automated phone line allows you to hear your balance and recent transaction history.
Dial the toll-free number at 1-877-328-9677.
Choose your preferred language. Support for more languages is available.
Enter your 16-digit EBT card number and your PIN when prompted.
An automated voice will read your current Food and EBT Cash balances.
4. Look at Store Receipts or POS Terminals
Checking your balance while you are at the grocery store can be done either before or after you shop.
After making a purchase with your EBT card, your printed receipt will show your remaining Food and EBT Cash funds.
Many stores also allow you to perform a balance inquiry at the checkout terminal before you pay. Simply insert your card, select the balance inquiry option, and enter your PIN to see your funds displayed on the screen.
5. Visit an ATM
Using an ATM is an option for checking your EBT Cash balance, but it will not show your SNAP food benefits.
Find an ATM that displays the Quest® logo.
Insert your EBT card and enter your PIN.
Select “Balance Inquiry” from the "Checking" account options to view your EBT Cash balance.
Since ATMs only show EBT Cash funds, you can check your SNAP balance by looking at your last grocery receipt or by using the Benny app.
To avoid extra charges, it is best to use surcharge-free ATMs.
Check Your SNAP & EBT Cash Balance in Seconds
Download the app
How Can I Keep My EBT Card Secure?
Phishing and spam attacks are surging across California, with thieves using increasingly sophisticated methods to target EBT users. Recognizing the different forms these scams can take is the first step in protecting your benefits from electronic theft.
How EBT Benefits Are Stolen
Thieves use several methods to steal benefits. Hardware skimmers are placed over card readers to copy data, while phishing texts and calls trick you into revealing your card number and PIN. State or county workers will never ask for this information by text, call, or email.
What To Do If Your Benefits Are Stolen
You may be eligible for a replacement if your benefits are stolen electronically. For CalFresh benefits stolen after October 1, 2022, report the theft within 10 days and submit Form EBT-2259 within 90 days. CalWORKs EBT Cash can also be replaced through this process, but only once in a 36-month period.
Other Common Issues with EBT Cards and How to Resolve Them
Beyond security threats, everyday issues can disrupt access to your benefits. Here are three common problems California EBT cardholders face and the steps you can take to resolve them.
Transaction Declined at Checkout
A point-of-sale terminal might reject your purchase for several reasons, even with available benefits. Common causes include an unauthorized store, a damaged card stripe, an incorrect PIN, or a balance that is too low for the transaction.
First, check your balance before you shop by calling 1-877-328-9677 or checking your last receipt. You can also download the Benny app for a real-time total.
If your balance is sufficient, try the card again, making sure you enter the correct PIN.
If the card looks scratched or damaged, call the EBT Customer Service line to request a replacement, which typically arrives within 5-7 business days.
Forgotten or Locked PIN
For security, your card will lock if the wrong PIN is entered four consecutive times. This can happen if you forget the number, or if a child or caregiver accidentally enters it incorrectly.
Call EBT Customer Service at 1-877-328-9677 and follow the prompts for your PIN. You will need to verify your identity using your card number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your SSN.
After verification, you can create a new 4-digit PIN. Keep it private and never write it on the card.
You may also change your PIN through the California EBT portal or by visiting a county office.
Expired or Damaged Card
California EBT cards typically expire every four years, though they may need replacement sooner if they become worn, warped, or unreadable by store terminals. The expiration date is printed on the front of the card.
Call EBT Customer Service to order a free replacement. Your benefits schedule will remain the same.
Confirm your mailing address is correct with the customer service agent.
If you need a card immediately, ask your county worker if a same-day emergency card is available for pickup at a local office.
Once your new card arrives and is activated, destroy the old one.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cashback On SNAP
Download the app
Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny
With the free Benny app, you can monitor your EBT balance in real time and earn cashback on qualifying purchases from retailers like Walmart, Target, Kroger, and Costco. To get started, simply link your EBT card in the app. After you shop, scan your receipt with Benny to receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.
SHARE
Your EBT card provides access to benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and EBT Cash, such as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). Effectively managing these funds helps with budgeting and prevents unexpected shortages at the checkout.
This guide explains the different ways to check your EBT balance in California, from using a mobile app to calling the customer service line.
How to Check Your EBT Balance in California
You can check your California EBT balance online through the cardholder website, with the Benny mobile app, by calling the customer service hotline, or by checking your last store receipt. You can also use a point-of-sale terminal at a store or an ATM, though ATMs typically only show your EBT Cash funds.
1. Check Online via the EBT Cardholder Website
Accessing your account information on the official state website is a straightforward way to view your current funds.
Go to the EBT Cardholder Website and choose “Cardholder Login.”
Enter your 16-digit EBT card number.
Provide your User ID and Password.
Click “Account Balance” to see your separate Food and EBT Cash totals.
2. Use the Benny Mobile App
Using a mobile app on your smartphone provides a quick way to see your balance anytime.
Download the Benny app for iOS or Android.
Sign up with your phone number or email and enter your zip code.
Link your EBT card to your account.
Your Food and EBT Cash balances will appear on the dashboard and refresh automatically.
The Benny app also gives you automatic cashback when you use your EBT card for purchases at participating retailers.
3. Call the Customer Service Line
Calling the 24-hour automated phone line allows you to hear your balance and recent transaction history.
Dial the toll-free number at 1-877-328-9677.
Choose your preferred language. Support for more languages is available.
Enter your 16-digit EBT card number and your PIN when prompted.
An automated voice will read your current Food and EBT Cash balances.
4. Look at Store Receipts or POS Terminals
Checking your balance while you are at the grocery store can be done either before or after you shop.
After making a purchase with your EBT card, your printed receipt will show your remaining Food and EBT Cash funds.
Many stores also allow you to perform a balance inquiry at the checkout terminal before you pay. Simply insert your card, select the balance inquiry option, and enter your PIN to see your funds displayed on the screen.
5. Visit an ATM
Using an ATM is an option for checking your EBT Cash balance, but it will not show your SNAP food benefits.
Find an ATM that displays the Quest® logo.
Insert your EBT card and enter your PIN.
Select “Balance Inquiry” from the "Checking" account options to view your EBT Cash balance.
Since ATMs only show EBT Cash funds, you can check your SNAP balance by looking at your last grocery receipt or by using the Benny app.
To avoid extra charges, it is best to use surcharge-free ATMs.
Check Your SNAP & EBT Cash Balance in Seconds
Download the app
How Can I Keep My EBT Card Secure?
Phishing and spam attacks are surging across California, with thieves using increasingly sophisticated methods to target EBT users. Recognizing the different forms these scams can take is the first step in protecting your benefits from electronic theft.
How EBT Benefits Are Stolen
Thieves use several methods to steal benefits. Hardware skimmers are placed over card readers to copy data, while phishing texts and calls trick you into revealing your card number and PIN. State or county workers will never ask for this information by text, call, or email.
What To Do If Your Benefits Are Stolen
You may be eligible for a replacement if your benefits are stolen electronically. For CalFresh benefits stolen after October 1, 2022, report the theft within 10 days and submit Form EBT-2259 within 90 days. CalWORKs EBT Cash can also be replaced through this process, but only once in a 36-month period.
Other Common Issues with EBT Cards and How to Resolve Them
Beyond security threats, everyday issues can disrupt access to your benefits. Here are three common problems California EBT cardholders face and the steps you can take to resolve them.
Transaction Declined at Checkout
A point-of-sale terminal might reject your purchase for several reasons, even with available benefits. Common causes include an unauthorized store, a damaged card stripe, an incorrect PIN, or a balance that is too low for the transaction.
First, check your balance before you shop by calling 1-877-328-9677 or checking your last receipt. You can also download the Benny app for a real-time total.
If your balance is sufficient, try the card again, making sure you enter the correct PIN.
If the card looks scratched or damaged, call the EBT Customer Service line to request a replacement, which typically arrives within 5-7 business days.
Forgotten or Locked PIN
For security, your card will lock if the wrong PIN is entered four consecutive times. This can happen if you forget the number, or if a child or caregiver accidentally enters it incorrectly.
Call EBT Customer Service at 1-877-328-9677 and follow the prompts for your PIN. You will need to verify your identity using your card number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your SSN.
After verification, you can create a new 4-digit PIN. Keep it private and never write it on the card.
You may also change your PIN through the California EBT portal or by visiting a county office.
Expired or Damaged Card
California EBT cards typically expire every four years, though they may need replacement sooner if they become worn, warped, or unreadable by store terminals. The expiration date is printed on the front of the card.
Call EBT Customer Service to order a free replacement. Your benefits schedule will remain the same.
Confirm your mailing address is correct with the customer service agent.
If you need a card immediately, ask your county worker if a same-day emergency card is available for pickup at a local office.
Once your new card arrives and is activated, destroy the old one.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cashback On SNAP
Download the app
Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny
With the free Benny app, you can monitor your EBT balance in real time and earn cashback on qualifying purchases from retailers like Walmart, Target, Kroger, and Costco. To get started, simply link your EBT card in the app. After you shop, scan your receipt with Benny to receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.
SHARE
Your EBT card provides access to benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and EBT Cash, such as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). Effectively managing these funds helps with budgeting and prevents unexpected shortages at the checkout.
This guide explains the different ways to check your EBT balance in California, from using a mobile app to calling the customer service line.
How to Check Your EBT Balance in California
You can check your California EBT balance online through the cardholder website, with the Benny mobile app, by calling the customer service hotline, or by checking your last store receipt. You can also use a point-of-sale terminal at a store or an ATM, though ATMs typically only show your EBT Cash funds.
1. Check Online via the EBT Cardholder Website
Accessing your account information on the official state website is a straightforward way to view your current funds.
Go to the EBT Cardholder Website and choose “Cardholder Login.”
Enter your 16-digit EBT card number.
Provide your User ID and Password.
Click “Account Balance” to see your separate Food and EBT Cash totals.
2. Use the Benny Mobile App
Using a mobile app on your smartphone provides a quick way to see your balance anytime.
Download the Benny app for iOS or Android.
Sign up with your phone number or email and enter your zip code.
Link your EBT card to your account.
Your Food and EBT Cash balances will appear on the dashboard and refresh automatically.
The Benny app also gives you automatic cashback when you use your EBT card for purchases at participating retailers.
3. Call the Customer Service Line
Calling the 24-hour automated phone line allows you to hear your balance and recent transaction history.
Dial the toll-free number at 1-877-328-9677.
Choose your preferred language. Support for more languages is available.
Enter your 16-digit EBT card number and your PIN when prompted.
An automated voice will read your current Food and EBT Cash balances.
4. Look at Store Receipts or POS Terminals
Checking your balance while you are at the grocery store can be done either before or after you shop.
After making a purchase with your EBT card, your printed receipt will show your remaining Food and EBT Cash funds.
Many stores also allow you to perform a balance inquiry at the checkout terminal before you pay. Simply insert your card, select the balance inquiry option, and enter your PIN to see your funds displayed on the screen.
5. Visit an ATM
Using an ATM is an option for checking your EBT Cash balance, but it will not show your SNAP food benefits.
Find an ATM that displays the Quest® logo.
Insert your EBT card and enter your PIN.
Select “Balance Inquiry” from the "Checking" account options to view your EBT Cash balance.
Since ATMs only show EBT Cash funds, you can check your SNAP balance by looking at your last grocery receipt or by using the Benny app.
To avoid extra charges, it is best to use surcharge-free ATMs.
Check Your SNAP & EBT Cash Balance in Seconds
Download the app
How Can I Keep My EBT Card Secure?
Phishing and spam attacks are surging across California, with thieves using increasingly sophisticated methods to target EBT users. Recognizing the different forms these scams can take is the first step in protecting your benefits from electronic theft.
How EBT Benefits Are Stolen
Thieves use several methods to steal benefits. Hardware skimmers are placed over card readers to copy data, while phishing texts and calls trick you into revealing your card number and PIN. State or county workers will never ask for this information by text, call, or email.
What To Do If Your Benefits Are Stolen
You may be eligible for a replacement if your benefits are stolen electronically. For CalFresh benefits stolen after October 1, 2022, report the theft within 10 days and submit Form EBT-2259 within 90 days. CalWORKs EBT Cash can also be replaced through this process, but only once in a 36-month period.
Other Common Issues with EBT Cards and How to Resolve Them
Beyond security threats, everyday issues can disrupt access to your benefits. Here are three common problems California EBT cardholders face and the steps you can take to resolve them.
Transaction Declined at Checkout
A point-of-sale terminal might reject your purchase for several reasons, even with available benefits. Common causes include an unauthorized store, a damaged card stripe, an incorrect PIN, or a balance that is too low for the transaction.
First, check your balance before you shop by calling 1-877-328-9677 or checking your last receipt. You can also download the Benny app for a real-time total.
If your balance is sufficient, try the card again, making sure you enter the correct PIN.
If the card looks scratched or damaged, call the EBT Customer Service line to request a replacement, which typically arrives within 5-7 business days.
Forgotten or Locked PIN
For security, your card will lock if the wrong PIN is entered four consecutive times. This can happen if you forget the number, or if a child or caregiver accidentally enters it incorrectly.
Call EBT Customer Service at 1-877-328-9677 and follow the prompts for your PIN. You will need to verify your identity using your card number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your SSN.
After verification, you can create a new 4-digit PIN. Keep it private and never write it on the card.
You may also change your PIN through the California EBT portal or by visiting a county office.
Expired or Damaged Card
California EBT cards typically expire every four years, though they may need replacement sooner if they become worn, warped, or unreadable by store terminals. The expiration date is printed on the front of the card.
Call EBT Customer Service to order a free replacement. Your benefits schedule will remain the same.
Confirm your mailing address is correct with the customer service agent.
If you need a card immediately, ask your county worker if a same-day emergency card is available for pickup at a local office.
Once your new card arrives and is activated, destroy the old one.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cashback On SNAP
Download the app
Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny
With the free Benny app, you can monitor your EBT balance in real time and earn cashback on qualifying purchases from retailers like Walmart, Target, Kroger, and Costco. To get started, simply link your EBT card in the app. After you shop, scan your receipt with Benny to receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.
SHARE
Your EBT card provides access to benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and EBT Cash, such as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). Effectively managing these funds helps with budgeting and prevents unexpected shortages at the checkout.
This guide explains the different ways to check your EBT balance in California, from using a mobile app to calling the customer service line.
How to Check Your EBT Balance in California
You can check your California EBT balance online through the cardholder website, with the Benny mobile app, by calling the customer service hotline, or by checking your last store receipt. You can also use a point-of-sale terminal at a store or an ATM, though ATMs typically only show your EBT Cash funds.
1. Check Online via the EBT Cardholder Website
Accessing your account information on the official state website is a straightforward way to view your current funds.
Go to the EBT Cardholder Website and choose “Cardholder Login.”
Enter your 16-digit EBT card number.
Provide your User ID and Password.
Click “Account Balance” to see your separate Food and EBT Cash totals.
2. Use the Benny Mobile App
Using a mobile app on your smartphone provides a quick way to see your balance anytime.
Download the Benny app for iOS or Android.
Sign up with your phone number or email and enter your zip code.
Link your EBT card to your account.
Your Food and EBT Cash balances will appear on the dashboard and refresh automatically.
The Benny app also gives you automatic cashback when you use your EBT card for purchases at participating retailers.
3. Call the Customer Service Line
Calling the 24-hour automated phone line allows you to hear your balance and recent transaction history.
Dial the toll-free number at 1-877-328-9677.
Choose your preferred language. Support for more languages is available.
Enter your 16-digit EBT card number and your PIN when prompted.
An automated voice will read your current Food and EBT Cash balances.
4. Look at Store Receipts or POS Terminals
Checking your balance while you are at the grocery store can be done either before or after you shop.
After making a purchase with your EBT card, your printed receipt will show your remaining Food and EBT Cash funds.
Many stores also allow you to perform a balance inquiry at the checkout terminal before you pay. Simply insert your card, select the balance inquiry option, and enter your PIN to see your funds displayed on the screen.
5. Visit an ATM
Using an ATM is an option for checking your EBT Cash balance, but it will not show your SNAP food benefits.
Find an ATM that displays the Quest® logo.
Insert your EBT card and enter your PIN.
Select “Balance Inquiry” from the "Checking" account options to view your EBT Cash balance.
Since ATMs only show EBT Cash funds, you can check your SNAP balance by looking at your last grocery receipt or by using the Benny app.
To avoid extra charges, it is best to use surcharge-free ATMs.
Check Your SNAP & EBT Cash Balance in Seconds
Download the app
How Can I Keep My EBT Card Secure?
Phishing and spam attacks are surging across California, with thieves using increasingly sophisticated methods to target EBT users. Recognizing the different forms these scams can take is the first step in protecting your benefits from electronic theft.
How EBT Benefits Are Stolen
Thieves use several methods to steal benefits. Hardware skimmers are placed over card readers to copy data, while phishing texts and calls trick you into revealing your card number and PIN. State or county workers will never ask for this information by text, call, or email.
What To Do If Your Benefits Are Stolen
You may be eligible for a replacement if your benefits are stolen electronically. For CalFresh benefits stolen after October 1, 2022, report the theft within 10 days and submit Form EBT-2259 within 90 days. CalWORKs EBT Cash can also be replaced through this process, but only once in a 36-month period.
Other Common Issues with EBT Cards and How to Resolve Them
Beyond security threats, everyday issues can disrupt access to your benefits. Here are three common problems California EBT cardholders face and the steps you can take to resolve them.
Transaction Declined at Checkout
A point-of-sale terminal might reject your purchase for several reasons, even with available benefits. Common causes include an unauthorized store, a damaged card stripe, an incorrect PIN, or a balance that is too low for the transaction.
First, check your balance before you shop by calling 1-877-328-9677 or checking your last receipt. You can also download the Benny app for a real-time total.
If your balance is sufficient, try the card again, making sure you enter the correct PIN.
If the card looks scratched or damaged, call the EBT Customer Service line to request a replacement, which typically arrives within 5-7 business days.
Forgotten or Locked PIN
For security, your card will lock if the wrong PIN is entered four consecutive times. This can happen if you forget the number, or if a child or caregiver accidentally enters it incorrectly.
Call EBT Customer Service at 1-877-328-9677 and follow the prompts for your PIN. You will need to verify your identity using your card number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your SSN.
After verification, you can create a new 4-digit PIN. Keep it private and never write it on the card.
You may also change your PIN through the California EBT portal or by visiting a county office.
Expired or Damaged Card
California EBT cards typically expire every four years, though they may need replacement sooner if they become worn, warped, or unreadable by store terminals. The expiration date is printed on the front of the card.
Call EBT Customer Service to order a free replacement. Your benefits schedule will remain the same.
Confirm your mailing address is correct with the customer service agent.
If you need a card immediately, ask your county worker if a same-day emergency card is available for pickup at a local office.
Once your new card arrives and is activated, destroy the old one.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cashback On SNAP
Download the app
Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny
With the free Benny app, you can monitor your EBT balance in real time and earn cashback on qualifying purchases from retailers like Walmart, Target, Kroger, and Costco. To get started, simply link your EBT card in the app. After you shop, scan your receipt with Benny to receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.
