5 Ways to Check Your Illinois EBT Balance

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Your EBT card provides access to benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or EBT Cash from programs like Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). A regular EBT balance check in Illinois is a smart way to budget and avoid shortages at the store. Knowing your available funds allows for better planning, which is why it's useful to check Illinois EBT balance periodically.

This guide details how to check EBT balance in Illinois, from using a mobile app to calling the customer service line.

How to Check Your EBT Balance in Illinois

There are several straightforward methods for an EBT balance check in Illinois. You can review your funds online through the state's official portal, use a mobile app on your phone, or call the automated customer service helpline. Additionally, you can perform an inquiry at a participating ATM or simply look at the bottom of your most recent store receipt.

1. Check Online via the Link Card Website

Managing your account through the state's official website is a direct method to check Illinois EBT balance. The portal provides your current totals and transaction history.

Navigate to the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) Link Card page and choose “Manage My Link Account” to open the ebtEDGE portal.
Select “Cardholder Login,” enter your User ID and Password, and then press “Login.” Your SNAP and EBT Cash balances will be on the home screen.
If you have not registered, choose “Register Here.” You will need to provide your card number, Social Security Number, and date of birth to create a User ID and Password.

The login screen includes a drop-down menu for translations in Spanish, Polish, Chinese, Arabic, and Russian.

2. Use the Benny Mobile App

Using a mobile application provides a fast and simple way to monitor your funds from anywhere.

Download the Benny app from the Google Play or App Store and create an account using your phone number or email address.
Enter your zip code and link your Link card to your account.
Once set up, you can tap to see your real-time SNAP and EBT Cash balances directly on the dashboard.

Benny also provides cashback on eligible EBT purchases at participating stores like Walmart, Costco, and Trader Joe's.

3. Call the Link Helpline

Calling the automated phone service is a reliable way to check EBT balance in Illinois without needing an internet connection.

Dial the 24-hour Link helpline at 1-800-678-LINK (5465).
Follow the automated prompts to enter your 16- or 19-digit card number. You may also use your Social Security Number, date of birth, and PIN.
Choose the option for your balance to hear your separate SNAP and EBT Cash totals. You can also request your last ten transactions.

The service offers support in English, Spanish, Polish, Chinese, and Arabic, with additional language options available.

4. Check at an ATM

Using an ATM allows you to perform a balance inquiry, often while withdrawing EBT Cash benefits.

Find an ATM that displays the Quest or Link logo. You can find surcharge-free machines using an Allpoint ATM locator.
Insert your Link card and enter your PIN.
Choose the “Balance Inquiry” option. You may need to select “Checking” for EBT Cash or a general “EBT” option to see both balances.

Your balances will appear on the screen and can be printed on a receipt.

5. Review Your Last Receipt

Checking your most recent store or ATM receipt is a simple way to confirm your available funds. After you make a purchase or withdraw EBT Cash with your Link card, your remaining SNAP and EBT Cash balances are printed at the bottom of the receipt.

Download Benny app to save on groceries

Get coupons from your favorite brands
Earn 1-3% cash back on SNAP and track your EBT balance
Get 1% cash back with the Benny Visa card and build your credit score

Download the app

How Can I Keep My EBT Card Secure?

Phishing and spam attacks targeting EBT users are on the rise, with fraudulent texts and calls becoming more common. Knowing the different forms these scams can take is important for protecting your benefits and taking action on time.

How EBT Benefits Are Stolen

Thieves use several methods to steal benefits. Physical skimmers hidden on point-of-sale devices can copy your card data and PIN. Digital scams are also widespread, including fraudulent texts and robocalls that trick you into revealing your card number. You can check EBT balance in Illinois to spot unauthorized transactions early.

What To Do If Your Benefits Are Stolen

If you suspect fraud, you must act quickly. The federal program to replace stolen SNAP benefits expired on December 20, 2024, and losses after this date are not reimbursed. You should still report the theft, change your PIN, and freeze your card. A regular EBT balance check in Illinois helps monitor your account.

Other Common Issues with EBT Cards and How to Resolve Them

Beyond security threats, everyday technical glitches can disrupt your access to benefits. Here are three common EBT card issues and the steps you can take to resolve them quickly.

Card Will Not Swipe Or Scan

A worn magnetic stripe, cracked plastic, or even food residue on the chip can prevent the card from being read by a point-of-sale terminal.

Wipe the stripe or chip with a soft cloth. You can also ask the cashier to try a manual key-entry if their terminal allows it.
If the card still fails, order a free replacement online through the Link portal or by calling the Help Line at 800-678-LINK. You will need to provide identifying information like your SSN and date of birth.
Your new card should arrive by mail in about a week. Keep the old card until the replacement comes to avoid any interruption in benefits.

“Insufficient Balance” Message At Checkout

This message often appears if your benefit deposit date has not yet arrived or if you are shopping before 6 a.m. on the deposit day. It can also happen if your SNAP or EBT Cash balance is lower than the purchase total, or if you have included non-eligible items in your SNAP transaction.

A quick EBT balance check in Illinois can confirm your available funds before you shop.

First, check your exact balance. You can download the Benny mobile app, check your last receipt, or call the automated phone line at 800-678-LINK.
Separate your order into SNAP-eligible and ineligible items, or pay the difference with another method.
Set a reminder for your monthly issuance date to know when your funds are available.

Forgotten Or Locked PIN

Entering an incorrect PIN several times, usually four, will trigger a 24-hour safety lock on your card to prevent unauthorized use. To check Illinois EBT balance after a reset, you can make a small inquiry.

Call 800-678-LINK or log into the Link portal to change your PIN. You will be asked for your card number, SSN, and date of birth to choose a new four-digit PIN.
If you cannot verify your identity online, you can visit your local Family and Community Resource Center (FCRC) with identification for assistance. Further guidance is available for this process.
Once your new PIN is active, test it with a balance inquiry at a retailer or ATM before making any purchases.

Get 1-3% cash back on groceries and track your EBT Balance

Download the app

Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny

Benny is a free app that helps you check Illinois EBT balance in real time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, Costco, and others. To get started, link your EBT card to the app. After you make a purchase, scan your receipt with Benny and receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.

Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

SHARE

Your EBT card provides access to benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or EBT Cash from programs like Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). A regular EBT balance check in Illinois is a smart way to budget and avoid shortages at the store. Knowing your available funds allows for better planning, which is why it's useful to check Illinois EBT balance periodically.

This guide details how to check EBT balance in Illinois, from using a mobile app to calling the customer service line.

How to Check Your EBT Balance in Illinois

There are several straightforward methods for an EBT balance check in Illinois. You can review your funds online through the state's official portal, use a mobile app on your phone, or call the automated customer service helpline. Additionally, you can perform an inquiry at a participating ATM or simply look at the bottom of your most recent store receipt.

1. Check Online via the Link Card Website

Managing your account through the state's official website is a direct method to check Illinois EBT balance. The portal provides your current totals and transaction history.

Navigate to the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) Link Card page and choose “Manage My Link Account” to open the ebtEDGE portal.
Select “Cardholder Login,” enter your User ID and Password, and then press “Login.” Your SNAP and EBT Cash balances will be on the home screen.
If you have not registered, choose “Register Here.” You will need to provide your card number, Social Security Number, and date of birth to create a User ID and Password.

The login screen includes a drop-down menu for translations in Spanish, Polish, Chinese, Arabic, and Russian.

2. Use the Benny Mobile App

Using a mobile application provides a fast and simple way to monitor your funds from anywhere.

Download the Benny app from the Google Play or App Store and create an account using your phone number or email address.
Enter your zip code and link your Link card to your account.
Once set up, you can tap to see your real-time SNAP and EBT Cash balances directly on the dashboard.

Benny also provides cashback on eligible EBT purchases at participating stores like Walmart, Costco, and Trader Joe's.

3. Call the Link Helpline

Calling the automated phone service is a reliable way to check EBT balance in Illinois without needing an internet connection.

Dial the 24-hour Link helpline at 1-800-678-LINK (5465).
Follow the automated prompts to enter your 16- or 19-digit card number. You may also use your Social Security Number, date of birth, and PIN.
Choose the option for your balance to hear your separate SNAP and EBT Cash totals. You can also request your last ten transactions.

The service offers support in English, Spanish, Polish, Chinese, and Arabic, with additional language options available.

4. Check at an ATM

Using an ATM allows you to perform a balance inquiry, often while withdrawing EBT Cash benefits.

Find an ATM that displays the Quest or Link logo. You can find surcharge-free machines using an Allpoint ATM locator.
Insert your Link card and enter your PIN.
Choose the “Balance Inquiry” option. You may need to select “Checking” for EBT Cash or a general “EBT” option to see both balances.

Your balances will appear on the screen and can be printed on a receipt.

5. Review Your Last Receipt

Checking your most recent store or ATM receipt is a simple way to confirm your available funds. After you make a purchase or withdraw EBT Cash with your Link card, your remaining SNAP and EBT Cash balances are printed at the bottom of the receipt.

Download Benny app to save on groceries

Get coupons from your favorite brands
Earn 1-3% cash back on SNAP and track your EBT balance
Get 1% cash back with the Benny Visa card and build your credit score

Download the app

How Can I Keep My EBT Card Secure?

Phishing and spam attacks targeting EBT users are on the rise, with fraudulent texts and calls becoming more common. Knowing the different forms these scams can take is important for protecting your benefits and taking action on time.

How EBT Benefits Are Stolen

Thieves use several methods to steal benefits. Physical skimmers hidden on point-of-sale devices can copy your card data and PIN. Digital scams are also widespread, including fraudulent texts and robocalls that trick you into revealing your card number. You can check EBT balance in Illinois to spot unauthorized transactions early.

What To Do If Your Benefits Are Stolen

If you suspect fraud, you must act quickly. The federal program to replace stolen SNAP benefits expired on December 20, 2024, and losses after this date are not reimbursed. You should still report the theft, change your PIN, and freeze your card. A regular EBT balance check in Illinois helps monitor your account.

Other Common Issues with EBT Cards and How to Resolve Them

Beyond security threats, everyday technical glitches can disrupt your access to benefits. Here are three common EBT card issues and the steps you can take to resolve them quickly.

Card Will Not Swipe Or Scan

A worn magnetic stripe, cracked plastic, or even food residue on the chip can prevent the card from being read by a point-of-sale terminal.

Wipe the stripe or chip with a soft cloth. You can also ask the cashier to try a manual key-entry if their terminal allows it.
If the card still fails, order a free replacement online through the Link portal or by calling the Help Line at 800-678-LINK. You will need to provide identifying information like your SSN and date of birth.
Your new card should arrive by mail in about a week. Keep the old card until the replacement comes to avoid any interruption in benefits.

“Insufficient Balance” Message At Checkout

This message often appears if your benefit deposit date has not yet arrived or if you are shopping before 6 a.m. on the deposit day. It can also happen if your SNAP or EBT Cash balance is lower than the purchase total, or if you have included non-eligible items in your SNAP transaction.

A quick EBT balance check in Illinois can confirm your available funds before you shop.

First, check your exact balance. You can download the Benny mobile app, check your last receipt, or call the automated phone line at 800-678-LINK.
Separate your order into SNAP-eligible and ineligible items, or pay the difference with another method.
Set a reminder for your monthly issuance date to know when your funds are available.

Forgotten Or Locked PIN

Entering an incorrect PIN several times, usually four, will trigger a 24-hour safety lock on your card to prevent unauthorized use. To check Illinois EBT balance after a reset, you can make a small inquiry.

Call 800-678-LINK or log into the Link portal to change your PIN. You will be asked for your card number, SSN, and date of birth to choose a new four-digit PIN.
If you cannot verify your identity online, you can visit your local Family and Community Resource Center (FCRC) with identification for assistance. Further guidance is available for this process.
Once your new PIN is active, test it with a balance inquiry at a retailer or ATM before making any purchases.

Get 1-3% cash back on groceries and track your EBT Balance

Download the app

Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny

Benny is a free app that helps you check Illinois EBT balance in real time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, Costco, and others. To get started, link your EBT card to the app. After you make a purchase, scan your receipt with Benny and receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.

Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

SHARE

Your EBT card provides access to benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or EBT Cash from programs like Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). A regular EBT balance check in Illinois is a smart way to budget and avoid shortages at the store. Knowing your available funds allows for better planning, which is why it's useful to check Illinois EBT balance periodically.

This guide details how to check EBT balance in Illinois, from using a mobile app to calling the customer service line.

How to Check Your EBT Balance in Illinois

There are several straightforward methods for an EBT balance check in Illinois. You can review your funds online through the state's official portal, use a mobile app on your phone, or call the automated customer service helpline. Additionally, you can perform an inquiry at a participating ATM or simply look at the bottom of your most recent store receipt.

1. Check Online via the Link Card Website

Managing your account through the state's official website is a direct method to check Illinois EBT balance. The portal provides your current totals and transaction history.

Navigate to the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) Link Card page and choose “Manage My Link Account” to open the ebtEDGE portal.
Select “Cardholder Login,” enter your User ID and Password, and then press “Login.” Your SNAP and EBT Cash balances will be on the home screen.
If you have not registered, choose “Register Here.” You will need to provide your card number, Social Security Number, and date of birth to create a User ID and Password.

The login screen includes a drop-down menu for translations in Spanish, Polish, Chinese, Arabic, and Russian.

2. Use the Benny Mobile App

Using a mobile application provides a fast and simple way to monitor your funds from anywhere.

Download the Benny app from the Google Play or App Store and create an account using your phone number or email address.
Enter your zip code and link your Link card to your account.
Once set up, you can tap to see your real-time SNAP and EBT Cash balances directly on the dashboard.

Benny also provides cashback on eligible EBT purchases at participating stores like Walmart, Costco, and Trader Joe's.

3. Call the Link Helpline

Calling the automated phone service is a reliable way to check EBT balance in Illinois without needing an internet connection.

Dial the 24-hour Link helpline at 1-800-678-LINK (5465).
Follow the automated prompts to enter your 16- or 19-digit card number. You may also use your Social Security Number, date of birth, and PIN.
Choose the option for your balance to hear your separate SNAP and EBT Cash totals. You can also request your last ten transactions.

The service offers support in English, Spanish, Polish, Chinese, and Arabic, with additional language options available.

4. Check at an ATM

Using an ATM allows you to perform a balance inquiry, often while withdrawing EBT Cash benefits.

Find an ATM that displays the Quest or Link logo. You can find surcharge-free machines using an Allpoint ATM locator.
Insert your Link card and enter your PIN.
Choose the “Balance Inquiry” option. You may need to select “Checking” for EBT Cash or a general “EBT” option to see both balances.

Your balances will appear on the screen and can be printed on a receipt.

5. Review Your Last Receipt

Checking your most recent store or ATM receipt is a simple way to confirm your available funds. After you make a purchase or withdraw EBT Cash with your Link card, your remaining SNAP and EBT Cash balances are printed at the bottom of the receipt.

Download Benny app to save on groceries

Get coupons from your favorite brands
Earn 1-3% cash back on SNAP and track your EBT balance
Get 1% cash back with the Benny Visa card and build your credit score

Download the app

How Can I Keep My EBT Card Secure?

Phishing and spam attacks targeting EBT users are on the rise, with fraudulent texts and calls becoming more common. Knowing the different forms these scams can take is important for protecting your benefits and taking action on time.

How EBT Benefits Are Stolen

Thieves use several methods to steal benefits. Physical skimmers hidden on point-of-sale devices can copy your card data and PIN. Digital scams are also widespread, including fraudulent texts and robocalls that trick you into revealing your card number. You can check EBT balance in Illinois to spot unauthorized transactions early.

What To Do If Your Benefits Are Stolen

If you suspect fraud, you must act quickly. The federal program to replace stolen SNAP benefits expired on December 20, 2024, and losses after this date are not reimbursed. You should still report the theft, change your PIN, and freeze your card. A regular EBT balance check in Illinois helps monitor your account.

Other Common Issues with EBT Cards and How to Resolve Them

Beyond security threats, everyday technical glitches can disrupt your access to benefits. Here are three common EBT card issues and the steps you can take to resolve them quickly.

Card Will Not Swipe Or Scan

A worn magnetic stripe, cracked plastic, or even food residue on the chip can prevent the card from being read by a point-of-sale terminal.

Wipe the stripe or chip with a soft cloth. You can also ask the cashier to try a manual key-entry if their terminal allows it.
If the card still fails, order a free replacement online through the Link portal or by calling the Help Line at 800-678-LINK. You will need to provide identifying information like your SSN and date of birth.
Your new card should arrive by mail in about a week. Keep the old card until the replacement comes to avoid any interruption in benefits.

“Insufficient Balance” Message At Checkout

This message often appears if your benefit deposit date has not yet arrived or if you are shopping before 6 a.m. on the deposit day. It can also happen if your SNAP or EBT Cash balance is lower than the purchase total, or if you have included non-eligible items in your SNAP transaction.

A quick EBT balance check in Illinois can confirm your available funds before you shop.

First, check your exact balance. You can download the Benny mobile app, check your last receipt, or call the automated phone line at 800-678-LINK.
Separate your order into SNAP-eligible and ineligible items, or pay the difference with another method.
Set a reminder for your monthly issuance date to know when your funds are available.

Forgotten Or Locked PIN

Entering an incorrect PIN several times, usually four, will trigger a 24-hour safety lock on your card to prevent unauthorized use. To check Illinois EBT balance after a reset, you can make a small inquiry.

Call 800-678-LINK or log into the Link portal to change your PIN. You will be asked for your card number, SSN, and date of birth to choose a new four-digit PIN.
If you cannot verify your identity online, you can visit your local Family and Community Resource Center (FCRC) with identification for assistance. Further guidance is available for this process.
Once your new PIN is active, test it with a balance inquiry at a retailer or ATM before making any purchases.

Get 1-3% cash back on groceries and track your EBT Balance

Download the app

Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny

Benny is a free app that helps you check Illinois EBT balance in real time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, Costco, and others. To get started, link your EBT card to the app. After you make a purchase, scan your receipt with Benny and receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.

Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

SHARE

Your EBT card provides access to benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or EBT Cash from programs like Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). A regular EBT balance check in Illinois is a smart way to budget and avoid shortages at the store. Knowing your available funds allows for better planning, which is why it's useful to check Illinois EBT balance periodically.

This guide details how to check EBT balance in Illinois, from using a mobile app to calling the customer service line.

How to Check Your EBT Balance in Illinois

There are several straightforward methods for an EBT balance check in Illinois. You can review your funds online through the state's official portal, use a mobile app on your phone, or call the automated customer service helpline. Additionally, you can perform an inquiry at a participating ATM or simply look at the bottom of your most recent store receipt.

1. Check Online via the Link Card Website

Managing your account through the state's official website is a direct method to check Illinois EBT balance. The portal provides your current totals and transaction history.

Navigate to the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) Link Card page and choose “Manage My Link Account” to open the ebtEDGE portal.
Select “Cardholder Login,” enter your User ID and Password, and then press “Login.” Your SNAP and EBT Cash balances will be on the home screen.
If you have not registered, choose “Register Here.” You will need to provide your card number, Social Security Number, and date of birth to create a User ID and Password.

The login screen includes a drop-down menu for translations in Spanish, Polish, Chinese, Arabic, and Russian.

2. Use the Benny Mobile App

Using a mobile application provides a fast and simple way to monitor your funds from anywhere.

Download the Benny app from the Google Play or App Store and create an account using your phone number or email address.
Enter your zip code and link your Link card to your account.
Once set up, you can tap to see your real-time SNAP and EBT Cash balances directly on the dashboard.

Benny also provides cashback on eligible EBT purchases at participating stores like Walmart, Costco, and Trader Joe's.

3. Call the Link Helpline

Calling the automated phone service is a reliable way to check EBT balance in Illinois without needing an internet connection.

Dial the 24-hour Link helpline at 1-800-678-LINK (5465).
Follow the automated prompts to enter your 16- or 19-digit card number. You may also use your Social Security Number, date of birth, and PIN.
Choose the option for your balance to hear your separate SNAP and EBT Cash totals. You can also request your last ten transactions.

The service offers support in English, Spanish, Polish, Chinese, and Arabic, with additional language options available.

4. Check at an ATM

Using an ATM allows you to perform a balance inquiry, often while withdrawing EBT Cash benefits.

Find an ATM that displays the Quest or Link logo. You can find surcharge-free machines using an Allpoint ATM locator.
Insert your Link card and enter your PIN.
Choose the “Balance Inquiry” option. You may need to select “Checking” for EBT Cash or a general “EBT” option to see both balances.

Your balances will appear on the screen and can be printed on a receipt.

5. Review Your Last Receipt

Checking your most recent store or ATM receipt is a simple way to confirm your available funds. After you make a purchase or withdraw EBT Cash with your Link card, your remaining SNAP and EBT Cash balances are printed at the bottom of the receipt.

Download Benny app to save on groceries

Get coupons from your favorite brands
Earn 1-3% cash back on SNAP and track your EBT balance
Get 1% cash back with the Benny Visa card and build your credit score

Download the app

How Can I Keep My EBT Card Secure?

Phishing and spam attacks targeting EBT users are on the rise, with fraudulent texts and calls becoming more common. Knowing the different forms these scams can take is important for protecting your benefits and taking action on time.

How EBT Benefits Are Stolen

Thieves use several methods to steal benefits. Physical skimmers hidden on point-of-sale devices can copy your card data and PIN. Digital scams are also widespread, including fraudulent texts and robocalls that trick you into revealing your card number. You can check EBT balance in Illinois to spot unauthorized transactions early.

What To Do If Your Benefits Are Stolen

If you suspect fraud, you must act quickly. The federal program to replace stolen SNAP benefits expired on December 20, 2024, and losses after this date are not reimbursed. You should still report the theft, change your PIN, and freeze your card. A regular EBT balance check in Illinois helps monitor your account.

Other Common Issues with EBT Cards and How to Resolve Them

Beyond security threats, everyday technical glitches can disrupt your access to benefits. Here are three common EBT card issues and the steps you can take to resolve them quickly.

Card Will Not Swipe Or Scan

A worn magnetic stripe, cracked plastic, or even food residue on the chip can prevent the card from being read by a point-of-sale terminal.

Wipe the stripe or chip with a soft cloth. You can also ask the cashier to try a manual key-entry if their terminal allows it.
If the card still fails, order a free replacement online through the Link portal or by calling the Help Line at 800-678-LINK. You will need to provide identifying information like your SSN and date of birth.
Your new card should arrive by mail in about a week. Keep the old card until the replacement comes to avoid any interruption in benefits.

“Insufficient Balance” Message At Checkout

This message often appears if your benefit deposit date has not yet arrived or if you are shopping before 6 a.m. on the deposit day. It can also happen if your SNAP or EBT Cash balance is lower than the purchase total, or if you have included non-eligible items in your SNAP transaction.

A quick EBT balance check in Illinois can confirm your available funds before you shop.

First, check your exact balance. You can download the Benny mobile app, check your last receipt, or call the automated phone line at 800-678-LINK.
Separate your order into SNAP-eligible and ineligible items, or pay the difference with another method.
Set a reminder for your monthly issuance date to know when your funds are available.

Forgotten Or Locked PIN

Entering an incorrect PIN several times, usually four, will trigger a 24-hour safety lock on your card to prevent unauthorized use. To check Illinois EBT balance after a reset, you can make a small inquiry.

Call 800-678-LINK or log into the Link portal to change your PIN. You will be asked for your card number, SSN, and date of birth to choose a new four-digit PIN.
If you cannot verify your identity online, you can visit your local Family and Community Resource Center (FCRC) with identification for assistance. Further guidance is available for this process.
Once your new PIN is active, test it with a balance inquiry at a retailer or ATM before making any purchases.

Get 1-3% cash back on groceries and track your EBT Balance

Download the app

Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny

Benny is a free app that helps you check Illinois EBT balance in real time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, Costco, and others. To get started, link your EBT card to the app. After you make a purchase, scan your receipt with Benny and receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.

Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

SHARE

Your EBT card provides access to benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or EBT Cash from programs like Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). A regular EBT balance check in Illinois is a smart way to budget and avoid shortages at the store. Knowing your available funds allows for better planning, which is why it's useful to check Illinois EBT balance periodically.

This guide details how to check EBT balance in Illinois, from using a mobile app to calling the customer service line.

How to Check Your EBT Balance in Illinois

There are several straightforward methods for an EBT balance check in Illinois. You can review your funds online through the state's official portal, use a mobile app on your phone, or call the automated customer service helpline. Additionally, you can perform an inquiry at a participating ATM or simply look at the bottom of your most recent store receipt.

1. Check Online via the Link Card Website

Managing your account through the state's official website is a direct method to check Illinois EBT balance. The portal provides your current totals and transaction history.

Navigate to the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) Link Card page and choose “Manage My Link Account” to open the ebtEDGE portal.
Select “Cardholder Login,” enter your User ID and Password, and then press “Login.” Your SNAP and EBT Cash balances will be on the home screen.
If you have not registered, choose “Register Here.” You will need to provide your card number, Social Security Number, and date of birth to create a User ID and Password.

The login screen includes a drop-down menu for translations in Spanish, Polish, Chinese, Arabic, and Russian.

2. Use the Benny Mobile App

Using a mobile application provides a fast and simple way to monitor your funds from anywhere.

Download the Benny app from the Google Play or App Store and create an account using your phone number or email address.
Enter your zip code and link your Link card to your account.
Once set up, you can tap to see your real-time SNAP and EBT Cash balances directly on the dashboard.

Benny also provides cashback on eligible EBT purchases at participating stores like Walmart, Costco, and Trader Joe's.

3. Call the Link Helpline

Calling the automated phone service is a reliable way to check EBT balance in Illinois without needing an internet connection.

Dial the 24-hour Link helpline at 1-800-678-LINK (5465).
Follow the automated prompts to enter your 16- or 19-digit card number. You may also use your Social Security Number, date of birth, and PIN.
Choose the option for your balance to hear your separate SNAP and EBT Cash totals. You can also request your last ten transactions.

The service offers support in English, Spanish, Polish, Chinese, and Arabic, with additional language options available.

4. Check at an ATM

Using an ATM allows you to perform a balance inquiry, often while withdrawing EBT Cash benefits.

Find an ATM that displays the Quest or Link logo. You can find surcharge-free machines using an Allpoint ATM locator.
Insert your Link card and enter your PIN.
Choose the “Balance Inquiry” option. You may need to select “Checking” for EBT Cash or a general “EBT” option to see both balances.

Your balances will appear on the screen and can be printed on a receipt.

5. Review Your Last Receipt

Checking your most recent store or ATM receipt is a simple way to confirm your available funds. After you make a purchase or withdraw EBT Cash with your Link card, your remaining SNAP and EBT Cash balances are printed at the bottom of the receipt.

Download Benny app to save on groceries

Get coupons from your favorite brands
Earn 1-3% cash back on SNAP and track your EBT balance
Get 1% cash back with the Benny Visa card and build your credit score

Download the app

How Can I Keep My EBT Card Secure?

Phishing and spam attacks targeting EBT users are on the rise, with fraudulent texts and calls becoming more common. Knowing the different forms these scams can take is important for protecting your benefits and taking action on time.

How EBT Benefits Are Stolen

Thieves use several methods to steal benefits. Physical skimmers hidden on point-of-sale devices can copy your card data and PIN. Digital scams are also widespread, including fraudulent texts and robocalls that trick you into revealing your card number. You can check EBT balance in Illinois to spot unauthorized transactions early.

What To Do If Your Benefits Are Stolen

If you suspect fraud, you must act quickly. The federal program to replace stolen SNAP benefits expired on December 20, 2024, and losses after this date are not reimbursed. You should still report the theft, change your PIN, and freeze your card. A regular EBT balance check in Illinois helps monitor your account.

Other Common Issues with EBT Cards and How to Resolve Them

Beyond security threats, everyday technical glitches can disrupt your access to benefits. Here are three common EBT card issues and the steps you can take to resolve them quickly.

Card Will Not Swipe Or Scan

A worn magnetic stripe, cracked plastic, or even food residue on the chip can prevent the card from being read by a point-of-sale terminal.

Wipe the stripe or chip with a soft cloth. You can also ask the cashier to try a manual key-entry if their terminal allows it.
If the card still fails, order a free replacement online through the Link portal or by calling the Help Line at 800-678-LINK. You will need to provide identifying information like your SSN and date of birth.
Your new card should arrive by mail in about a week. Keep the old card until the replacement comes to avoid any interruption in benefits.

“Insufficient Balance” Message At Checkout

This message often appears if your benefit deposit date has not yet arrived or if you are shopping before 6 a.m. on the deposit day. It can also happen if your SNAP or EBT Cash balance is lower than the purchase total, or if you have included non-eligible items in your SNAP transaction.

A quick EBT balance check in Illinois can confirm your available funds before you shop.

First, check your exact balance. You can download the Benny mobile app, check your last receipt, or call the automated phone line at 800-678-LINK.
Separate your order into SNAP-eligible and ineligible items, or pay the difference with another method.
Set a reminder for your monthly issuance date to know when your funds are available.

Forgotten Or Locked PIN

Entering an incorrect PIN several times, usually four, will trigger a 24-hour safety lock on your card to prevent unauthorized use. To check Illinois EBT balance after a reset, you can make a small inquiry.

Call 800-678-LINK or log into the Link portal to change your PIN. You will be asked for your card number, SSN, and date of birth to choose a new four-digit PIN.
If you cannot verify your identity online, you can visit your local Family and Community Resource Center (FCRC) with identification for assistance. Further guidance is available for this process.
Once your new PIN is active, test it with a balance inquiry at a retailer or ATM before making any purchases.

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Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny

Benny is a free app that helps you check Illinois EBT balance in real time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, Costco, and others. To get started, link your EBT card to the app. After you make a purchase, scan your receipt with Benny and receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.

Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.