5 Ways to Check Your Louisiana EBT Balance

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Your EBT card holds benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and EBT Cash programs like Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). Regularly checking your balance helps with budgeting and prevents unexpected shortages, whether you receive one or both benefit types.

This guide explains how to check your Louisiana EBT funds, from using a mobile app to calling the customer service line.

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 on your smartphone, calling the automated customer service line, making an inquiry at an ATM, or simply looking at your most recent grocery store receipt. Each method provides a quick way to see your available funds.

1. Check Online Through The Lifeincheck Portal

Accessing the official LifeInCheck EBT Cardholder Portal gives you real-time information on your SNAP and EBT Cash funds. The Louisiana Department of Children & Family Services (DCFS) provides a link on its Electronic Benefits Transfer page.

Go to lifeincheckebt.com and choose “Cardholder Login.”
If you are a first-time user, select “Create User ID” and register by entering your card number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your SSN. You will also set a username, password, and security questions.
Sign in and click “Account Balance” on the dashboard to see your current SNAP and EBT Cash amounts, along with the next benefit availability date.
You can also press “Transaction History” to view, download, or print past activity.

2. Use The Benny App

Using the free Benny app on your smartphone is another way to view your current funds.

Download the app from the App Store or Google Play and tap “Get Started.”
Select “Louisiana EBT,” then enter your EBT card number and the ZIP code associated with your benefits.
Your home screen will immediately show your current SNAP and EBT Cash funds. You can also swipe to see your next deposit date and recent transactions.

The app also offers cash-back on EBT purchases at participating stores like Costco, Walmart, Walgreens, and Trader Joe’s.

3. Call The Customer Service Hotline

Calling the Louisiana EBT Customer Service line provides automated balance information 24 hours a day. Support is available in English, Spanish, Vietnamese, and Mandarin, with more details on the DCFS LaHelpU service-center page.

Dial 1-888-997-1117 and choose your preferred language when prompted.
Press 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. Make An ATM Inquiry

Checking your EBT Cash funds is possible at any ATM showing the Quest®, Cirrus®, or STAR® logo. You can find a surcharge-free ATM to avoid fees.

Insert your Louisiana Purchase card and enter your PIN.
Select the “Balance Inquiry” option, then choose “Checking.”
The ATM screen will display your available EBT Cash balance, and you can print a receipt.

Some ATMs may not show your SNAP funds. If this happens, you can find your SNAP balance on your last store receipt or by using the Benny app.

5. Review Your Last Store Receipt

Looking at your most recent receipt is a straightforward way to see your updated funds. After completing a transaction with your Louisiana Purchase card, look near the bottom of the receipt for “EBT Food Bal” or “EBT Cash Bal.” The numbers listed are your current balances.

Check Your SNAP & EBT Cash Balance in Seconds

Download the app

How Can I Keep My EBT Card Secure?

With phishing and spam attacks on the rise across Louisiana, it is important to recognize the different forms these scams can take. Knowing the signs of fraud helps you protect your benefits and take the right steps if they are compromised.

How EBT Benefits Are Stolen

Thieves use two main methods. Card-skimming and cloning use illegal devices on payment terminals to copy your card data, a threat found at Louisiana retailers. The other tactic is 'smishing,' where fraudulent texts trick you into clicking a link that captures your card number and PIN.

What To Do If Your Benefits Are Stolen

SNAP benefits stolen via skimming or phishing on or after October 1, 2022, can be replaced. You can get up to two reimbursements per year. You must:

Report the theft to DCFS within 30 days of discovery.
Complete a claim form by calling 1-888-LA-HELPU.

Cash programs like FITAP are not covered by this federal replacement mandate.

Other Common Issues with EBT Cards and How to Resolve Them

While most transactions are smooth, you might occasionally face issues with your Louisiana Purchase card. Here’s a look at some common problems and how you can quickly resolve them.

Card Never Arrives or Is Late

Louisiana Purchase cards are mailed separately from approval letters. Delivery typically takes three to five business days, but it can be longer for P.O. boxes. An old address on file or general postal delays can also extend the wait time.

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 request a reissue.
While waiting, you can monitor your case in the CAFÉ Self-Service Portal to know when benefits post.
Once the card arrives, sign the back and choose a secure PIN.

Forgotten, Blocked, or Rejected PIN

Entering the wrong PIN three times in a row will automatically freeze your card until midnight as a security measure. Your PIN might also be rejected if it is an easy-to-guess pattern, such as 1111, 1234, or your birth year, as noted on the EBT information page.

You can reset your PIN anytime through the LifeInCheck app or online at LifeInCheckEBT.com. You can also use the automated phone menu at 1-888-997-1117.
If your account is frozen, you can wait until after midnight for it to unlock or reset your PIN immediately with one of the methods above.
Choose a non-pattern PIN and avoid writing it on the card.

Card Declined for “Insufficient Funds”

SNAP benefits are deposited only once a month on a fixed date between the 1st and 14th. If you try to shop before your deposit date, your card will be declined. This can also happen if you choose the wrong payment type at checkout or if your benefits have expired after nine months of inactivity.

Confirm your balance before shopping. You can check it with the LifeInCheck app, by downloading Benny, or by checking your last receipt.
Check the monthly benefit calendar in the LifeInCheck app to find your exact deposit date.
If benefits have expired, they cannot be re-added. Make a small purchase every few months to keep your account active.
Always choose “EBT-SNAP” at the terminal when paying for food.

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 that lets you track your EBT balance in real time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, and Costco. 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.

SHARE

Your EBT card holds benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and EBT Cash programs like Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). Regularly checking your balance helps with budgeting and prevents unexpected shortages, whether you receive one or both benefit types.

This guide explains how to check your Louisiana EBT funds, from using a mobile app to calling the customer service line.

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 on your smartphone, calling the automated customer service line, making an inquiry at an ATM, or simply looking at your most recent grocery store receipt. Each method provides a quick way to see your available funds.

1. Check Online Through The Lifeincheck Portal

Accessing the official LifeInCheck EBT Cardholder Portal gives you real-time information on your SNAP and EBT Cash funds. The Louisiana Department of Children & Family Services (DCFS) provides a link on its Electronic Benefits Transfer page.

Go to lifeincheckebt.com and choose “Cardholder Login.”
If you are a first-time user, select “Create User ID” and register by entering your card number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your SSN. You will also set a username, password, and security questions.
Sign in and click “Account Balance” on the dashboard to see your current SNAP and EBT Cash amounts, along with the next benefit availability date.
You can also press “Transaction History” to view, download, or print past activity.

2. Use The Benny App

Using the free Benny app on your smartphone is another way to view your current funds.

Download the app from the App Store or Google Play and tap “Get Started.”
Select “Louisiana EBT,” then enter your EBT card number and the ZIP code associated with your benefits.
Your home screen will immediately show your current SNAP and EBT Cash funds. You can also swipe to see your next deposit date and recent transactions.

The app also offers cash-back on EBT purchases at participating stores like Costco, Walmart, Walgreens, and Trader Joe’s.

3. Call The Customer Service Hotline

Calling the Louisiana EBT Customer Service line provides automated balance information 24 hours a day. Support is available in English, Spanish, Vietnamese, and Mandarin, with more details on the DCFS LaHelpU service-center page.

Dial 1-888-997-1117 and choose your preferred language when prompted.
Press 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. Make An ATM Inquiry

Checking your EBT Cash funds is possible at any ATM showing the Quest®, Cirrus®, or STAR® logo. You can find a surcharge-free ATM to avoid fees.

Insert your Louisiana Purchase card and enter your PIN.
Select the “Balance Inquiry” option, then choose “Checking.”
The ATM screen will display your available EBT Cash balance, and you can print a receipt.

Some ATMs may not show your SNAP funds. If this happens, you can find your SNAP balance on your last store receipt or by using the Benny app.

5. Review Your Last Store Receipt

Looking at your most recent receipt is a straightforward way to see your updated funds. After completing a transaction with your Louisiana Purchase card, look near the bottom of the receipt for “EBT Food Bal” or “EBT Cash Bal.” The numbers listed are your current balances.

Check Your SNAP & EBT Cash Balance in Seconds

Download the app

How Can I Keep My EBT Card Secure?

With phishing and spam attacks on the rise across Louisiana, it is important to recognize the different forms these scams can take. Knowing the signs of fraud helps you protect your benefits and take the right steps if they are compromised.

How EBT Benefits Are Stolen

Thieves use two main methods. Card-skimming and cloning use illegal devices on payment terminals to copy your card data, a threat found at Louisiana retailers. The other tactic is 'smishing,' where fraudulent texts trick you into clicking a link that captures your card number and PIN.

What To Do If Your Benefits Are Stolen

SNAP benefits stolen via skimming or phishing on or after October 1, 2022, can be replaced. You can get up to two reimbursements per year. You must:

Report the theft to DCFS within 30 days of discovery.
Complete a claim form by calling 1-888-LA-HELPU.

Cash programs like FITAP are not covered by this federal replacement mandate.

Other Common Issues with EBT Cards and How to Resolve Them

While most transactions are smooth, you might occasionally face issues with your Louisiana Purchase card. Here’s a look at some common problems and how you can quickly resolve them.

Card Never Arrives or Is Late

Louisiana Purchase cards are mailed separately from approval letters. Delivery typically takes three to five business days, but it can be longer for P.O. boxes. An old address on file or general postal delays can also extend the wait time.

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 request a reissue.
While waiting, you can monitor your case in the CAFÉ Self-Service Portal to know when benefits post.
Once the card arrives, sign the back and choose a secure PIN.

Forgotten, Blocked, or Rejected PIN

Entering the wrong PIN three times in a row will automatically freeze your card until midnight as a security measure. Your PIN might also be rejected if it is an easy-to-guess pattern, such as 1111, 1234, or your birth year, as noted on the EBT information page.

You can reset your PIN anytime through the LifeInCheck app or online at LifeInCheckEBT.com. You can also use the automated phone menu at 1-888-997-1117.
If your account is frozen, you can wait until after midnight for it to unlock or reset your PIN immediately with one of the methods above.
Choose a non-pattern PIN and avoid writing it on the card.

Card Declined for “Insufficient Funds”

SNAP benefits are deposited only once a month on a fixed date between the 1st and 14th. If you try to shop before your deposit date, your card will be declined. This can also happen if you choose the wrong payment type at checkout or if your benefits have expired after nine months of inactivity.

Confirm your balance before shopping. You can check it with the LifeInCheck app, by downloading Benny, or by checking your last receipt.
Check the monthly benefit calendar in the LifeInCheck app to find your exact deposit date.
If benefits have expired, they cannot be re-added. Make a small purchase every few months to keep your account active.
Always choose “EBT-SNAP” at the terminal when paying for food.

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 that lets you track your EBT balance in real time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, and Costco. 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.

SHARE

Your EBT card holds benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and EBT Cash programs like Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). Regularly checking your balance helps with budgeting and prevents unexpected shortages, whether you receive one or both benefit types.

This guide explains how to check your Louisiana EBT funds, from using a mobile app to calling the customer service line.

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 on your smartphone, calling the automated customer service line, making an inquiry at an ATM, or simply looking at your most recent grocery store receipt. Each method provides a quick way to see your available funds.

1. Check Online Through The Lifeincheck Portal

Accessing the official LifeInCheck EBT Cardholder Portal gives you real-time information on your SNAP and EBT Cash funds. The Louisiana Department of Children & Family Services (DCFS) provides a link on its Electronic Benefits Transfer page.

Go to lifeincheckebt.com and choose “Cardholder Login.”
If you are a first-time user, select “Create User ID” and register by entering your card number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your SSN. You will also set a username, password, and security questions.
Sign in and click “Account Balance” on the dashboard to see your current SNAP and EBT Cash amounts, along with the next benefit availability date.
You can also press “Transaction History” to view, download, or print past activity.

2. Use The Benny App

Using the free Benny app on your smartphone is another way to view your current funds.

Download the app from the App Store or Google Play and tap “Get Started.”
Select “Louisiana EBT,” then enter your EBT card number and the ZIP code associated with your benefits.
Your home screen will immediately show your current SNAP and EBT Cash funds. You can also swipe to see your next deposit date and recent transactions.

The app also offers cash-back on EBT purchases at participating stores like Costco, Walmart, Walgreens, and Trader Joe’s.

3. Call The Customer Service Hotline

Calling the Louisiana EBT Customer Service line provides automated balance information 24 hours a day. Support is available in English, Spanish, Vietnamese, and Mandarin, with more details on the DCFS LaHelpU service-center page.

Dial 1-888-997-1117 and choose your preferred language when prompted.
Press 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. Make An ATM Inquiry

Checking your EBT Cash funds is possible at any ATM showing the Quest®, Cirrus®, or STAR® logo. You can find a surcharge-free ATM to avoid fees.

Insert your Louisiana Purchase card and enter your PIN.
Select the “Balance Inquiry” option, then choose “Checking.”
The ATM screen will display your available EBT Cash balance, and you can print a receipt.

Some ATMs may not show your SNAP funds. If this happens, you can find your SNAP balance on your last store receipt or by using the Benny app.

5. Review Your Last Store Receipt

Looking at your most recent receipt is a straightforward way to see your updated funds. After completing a transaction with your Louisiana Purchase card, look near the bottom of the receipt for “EBT Food Bal” or “EBT Cash Bal.” The numbers listed are your current balances.

Check Your SNAP & EBT Cash Balance in Seconds

Download the app

How Can I Keep My EBT Card Secure?

With phishing and spam attacks on the rise across Louisiana, it is important to recognize the different forms these scams can take. Knowing the signs of fraud helps you protect your benefits and take the right steps if they are compromised.

How EBT Benefits Are Stolen

Thieves use two main methods. Card-skimming and cloning use illegal devices on payment terminals to copy your card data, a threat found at Louisiana retailers. The other tactic is 'smishing,' where fraudulent texts trick you into clicking a link that captures your card number and PIN.

What To Do If Your Benefits Are Stolen

SNAP benefits stolen via skimming or phishing on or after October 1, 2022, can be replaced. You can get up to two reimbursements per year. You must:

Report the theft to DCFS within 30 days of discovery.
Complete a claim form by calling 1-888-LA-HELPU.

Cash programs like FITAP are not covered by this federal replacement mandate.

Other Common Issues with EBT Cards and How to Resolve Them

While most transactions are smooth, you might occasionally face issues with your Louisiana Purchase card. Here’s a look at some common problems and how you can quickly resolve them.

Card Never Arrives or Is Late

Louisiana Purchase cards are mailed separately from approval letters. Delivery typically takes three to five business days, but it can be longer for P.O. boxes. An old address on file or general postal delays can also extend the wait time.

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 request a reissue.
While waiting, you can monitor your case in the CAFÉ Self-Service Portal to know when benefits post.
Once the card arrives, sign the back and choose a secure PIN.

Forgotten, Blocked, or Rejected PIN

Entering the wrong PIN three times in a row will automatically freeze your card until midnight as a security measure. Your PIN might also be rejected if it is an easy-to-guess pattern, such as 1111, 1234, or your birth year, as noted on the EBT information page.

You can reset your PIN anytime through the LifeInCheck app or online at LifeInCheckEBT.com. You can also use the automated phone menu at 1-888-997-1117.
If your account is frozen, you can wait until after midnight for it to unlock or reset your PIN immediately with one of the methods above.
Choose a non-pattern PIN and avoid writing it on the card.

Card Declined for “Insufficient Funds”

SNAP benefits are deposited only once a month on a fixed date between the 1st and 14th. If you try to shop before your deposit date, your card will be declined. This can also happen if you choose the wrong payment type at checkout or if your benefits have expired after nine months of inactivity.

Confirm your balance before shopping. You can check it with the LifeInCheck app, by downloading Benny, or by checking your last receipt.
Check the monthly benefit calendar in the LifeInCheck app to find your exact deposit date.
If benefits have expired, they cannot be re-added. Make a small purchase every few months to keep your account active.
Always choose “EBT-SNAP” at the terminal when paying for food.

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 that lets you track your EBT balance in real time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, and Costco. 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.

SHARE

Your EBT card holds benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and EBT Cash programs like Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). Regularly checking your balance helps with budgeting and prevents unexpected shortages, whether you receive one or both benefit types.

This guide explains how to check your Louisiana EBT funds, from using a mobile app to calling the customer service line.

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 on your smartphone, calling the automated customer service line, making an inquiry at an ATM, or simply looking at your most recent grocery store receipt. Each method provides a quick way to see your available funds.

1. Check Online Through The Lifeincheck Portal

Accessing the official LifeInCheck EBT Cardholder Portal gives you real-time information on your SNAP and EBT Cash funds. The Louisiana Department of Children & Family Services (DCFS) provides a link on its Electronic Benefits Transfer page.

Go to lifeincheckebt.com and choose “Cardholder Login.”
If you are a first-time user, select “Create User ID” and register by entering your card number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your SSN. You will also set a username, password, and security questions.
Sign in and click “Account Balance” on the dashboard to see your current SNAP and EBT Cash amounts, along with the next benefit availability date.
You can also press “Transaction History” to view, download, or print past activity.

2. Use The Benny App

Using the free Benny app on your smartphone is another way to view your current funds.

Download the app from the App Store or Google Play and tap “Get Started.”
Select “Louisiana EBT,” then enter your EBT card number and the ZIP code associated with your benefits.
Your home screen will immediately show your current SNAP and EBT Cash funds. You can also swipe to see your next deposit date and recent transactions.

The app also offers cash-back on EBT purchases at participating stores like Costco, Walmart, Walgreens, and Trader Joe’s.

3. Call The Customer Service Hotline

Calling the Louisiana EBT Customer Service line provides automated balance information 24 hours a day. Support is available in English, Spanish, Vietnamese, and Mandarin, with more details on the DCFS LaHelpU service-center page.

Dial 1-888-997-1117 and choose your preferred language when prompted.
Press 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. Make An ATM Inquiry

Checking your EBT Cash funds is possible at any ATM showing the Quest®, Cirrus®, or STAR® logo. You can find a surcharge-free ATM to avoid fees.

Insert your Louisiana Purchase card and enter your PIN.
Select the “Balance Inquiry” option, then choose “Checking.”
The ATM screen will display your available EBT Cash balance, and you can print a receipt.

Some ATMs may not show your SNAP funds. If this happens, you can find your SNAP balance on your last store receipt or by using the Benny app.

5. Review Your Last Store Receipt

Looking at your most recent receipt is a straightforward way to see your updated funds. After completing a transaction with your Louisiana Purchase card, look near the bottom of the receipt for “EBT Food Bal” or “EBT Cash Bal.” The numbers listed are your current balances.

Check Your SNAP & EBT Cash Balance in Seconds

Download the app

How Can I Keep My EBT Card Secure?

With phishing and spam attacks on the rise across Louisiana, it is important to recognize the different forms these scams can take. Knowing the signs of fraud helps you protect your benefits and take the right steps if they are compromised.

How EBT Benefits Are Stolen

Thieves use two main methods. Card-skimming and cloning use illegal devices on payment terminals to copy your card data, a threat found at Louisiana retailers. The other tactic is 'smishing,' where fraudulent texts trick you into clicking a link that captures your card number and PIN.

What To Do If Your Benefits Are Stolen

SNAP benefits stolen via skimming or phishing on or after October 1, 2022, can be replaced. You can get up to two reimbursements per year. You must:

Report the theft to DCFS within 30 days of discovery.
Complete a claim form by calling 1-888-LA-HELPU.

Cash programs like FITAP are not covered by this federal replacement mandate.

Other Common Issues with EBT Cards and How to Resolve Them

While most transactions are smooth, you might occasionally face issues with your Louisiana Purchase card. Here’s a look at some common problems and how you can quickly resolve them.

Card Never Arrives or Is Late

Louisiana Purchase cards are mailed separately from approval letters. Delivery typically takes three to five business days, but it can be longer for P.O. boxes. An old address on file or general postal delays can also extend the wait time.

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 request a reissue.
While waiting, you can monitor your case in the CAFÉ Self-Service Portal to know when benefits post.
Once the card arrives, sign the back and choose a secure PIN.

Forgotten, Blocked, or Rejected PIN

Entering the wrong PIN three times in a row will automatically freeze your card until midnight as a security measure. Your PIN might also be rejected if it is an easy-to-guess pattern, such as 1111, 1234, or your birth year, as noted on the EBT information page.

You can reset your PIN anytime through the LifeInCheck app or online at LifeInCheckEBT.com. You can also use the automated phone menu at 1-888-997-1117.
If your account is frozen, you can wait until after midnight for it to unlock or reset your PIN immediately with one of the methods above.
Choose a non-pattern PIN and avoid writing it on the card.

Card Declined for “Insufficient Funds”

SNAP benefits are deposited only once a month on a fixed date between the 1st and 14th. If you try to shop before your deposit date, your card will be declined. This can also happen if you choose the wrong payment type at checkout or if your benefits have expired after nine months of inactivity.

Confirm your balance before shopping. You can check it with the LifeInCheck app, by downloading Benny, or by checking your last receipt.
Check the monthly benefit calendar in the LifeInCheck app to find your exact deposit date.
If benefits have expired, they cannot be re-added. Make a small purchase every few months to keep your account active.
Always choose “EBT-SNAP” at the terminal when paying for food.

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 that lets you track your EBT balance in real time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, and Costco. 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.

SHARE

Your EBT card holds benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and EBT Cash programs like Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). Regularly checking your balance helps with budgeting and prevents unexpected shortages, whether you receive one or both benefit types.

This guide explains how to check your Louisiana EBT funds, from using a mobile app to calling the customer service line.

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 on your smartphone, calling the automated customer service line, making an inquiry at an ATM, or simply looking at your most recent grocery store receipt. Each method provides a quick way to see your available funds.

1. Check Online Through The Lifeincheck Portal

Accessing the official LifeInCheck EBT Cardholder Portal gives you real-time information on your SNAP and EBT Cash funds. The Louisiana Department of Children & Family Services (DCFS) provides a link on its Electronic Benefits Transfer page.

Go to lifeincheckebt.com and choose “Cardholder Login.”
If you are a first-time user, select “Create User ID” and register by entering your card number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your SSN. You will also set a username, password, and security questions.
Sign in and click “Account Balance” on the dashboard to see your current SNAP and EBT Cash amounts, along with the next benefit availability date.
You can also press “Transaction History” to view, download, or print past activity.

2. Use The Benny App

Using the free Benny app on your smartphone is another way to view your current funds.

Download the app from the App Store or Google Play and tap “Get Started.”
Select “Louisiana EBT,” then enter your EBT card number and the ZIP code associated with your benefits.
Your home screen will immediately show your current SNAP and EBT Cash funds. You can also swipe to see your next deposit date and recent transactions.

The app also offers cash-back on EBT purchases at participating stores like Costco, Walmart, Walgreens, and Trader Joe’s.

3. Call The Customer Service Hotline

Calling the Louisiana EBT Customer Service line provides automated balance information 24 hours a day. Support is available in English, Spanish, Vietnamese, and Mandarin, with more details on the DCFS LaHelpU service-center page.

Dial 1-888-997-1117 and choose your preferred language when prompted.
Press 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. Make An ATM Inquiry

Checking your EBT Cash funds is possible at any ATM showing the Quest®, Cirrus®, or STAR® logo. You can find a surcharge-free ATM to avoid fees.

Insert your Louisiana Purchase card and enter your PIN.
Select the “Balance Inquiry” option, then choose “Checking.”
The ATM screen will display your available EBT Cash balance, and you can print a receipt.

Some ATMs may not show your SNAP funds. If this happens, you can find your SNAP balance on your last store receipt or by using the Benny app.

5. Review Your Last Store Receipt

Looking at your most recent receipt is a straightforward way to see your updated funds. After completing a transaction with your Louisiana Purchase card, look near the bottom of the receipt for “EBT Food Bal” or “EBT Cash Bal.” The numbers listed are your current balances.

Check Your SNAP & EBT Cash Balance in Seconds

Download the app

How Can I Keep My EBT Card Secure?

With phishing and spam attacks on the rise across Louisiana, it is important to recognize the different forms these scams can take. Knowing the signs of fraud helps you protect your benefits and take the right steps if they are compromised.

How EBT Benefits Are Stolen

Thieves use two main methods. Card-skimming and cloning use illegal devices on payment terminals to copy your card data, a threat found at Louisiana retailers. The other tactic is 'smishing,' where fraudulent texts trick you into clicking a link that captures your card number and PIN.

What To Do If Your Benefits Are Stolen

SNAP benefits stolen via skimming or phishing on or after October 1, 2022, can be replaced. You can get up to two reimbursements per year. You must:

Report the theft to DCFS within 30 days of discovery.
Complete a claim form by calling 1-888-LA-HELPU.

Cash programs like FITAP are not covered by this federal replacement mandate.

Other Common Issues with EBT Cards and How to Resolve Them

While most transactions are smooth, you might occasionally face issues with your Louisiana Purchase card. Here’s a look at some common problems and how you can quickly resolve them.

Card Never Arrives or Is Late

Louisiana Purchase cards are mailed separately from approval letters. Delivery typically takes three to five business days, but it can be longer for P.O. boxes. An old address on file or general postal delays can also extend the wait time.

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 request a reissue.
While waiting, you can monitor your case in the CAFÉ Self-Service Portal to know when benefits post.
Once the card arrives, sign the back and choose a secure PIN.

Forgotten, Blocked, or Rejected PIN

Entering the wrong PIN three times in a row will automatically freeze your card until midnight as a security measure. Your PIN might also be rejected if it is an easy-to-guess pattern, such as 1111, 1234, or your birth year, as noted on the EBT information page.

You can reset your PIN anytime through the LifeInCheck app or online at LifeInCheckEBT.com. You can also use the automated phone menu at 1-888-997-1117.
If your account is frozen, you can wait until after midnight for it to unlock or reset your PIN immediately with one of the methods above.
Choose a non-pattern PIN and avoid writing it on the card.

Card Declined for “Insufficient Funds”

SNAP benefits are deposited only once a month on a fixed date between the 1st and 14th. If you try to shop before your deposit date, your card will be declined. This can also happen if you choose the wrong payment type at checkout or if your benefits have expired after nine months of inactivity.

Confirm your balance before shopping. You can check it with the LifeInCheck app, by downloading Benny, or by checking your last receipt.
Check the monthly benefit calendar in the LifeInCheck app to find your exact deposit date.
If benefits have expired, they cannot be re-added. Make a small purchase every few months to keep your account active.
Always choose “EBT-SNAP” at the terminal when paying for food.

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 that lets you track your EBT balance in real time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, and Costco. 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.