Louisiana EBT Deposit Schedule for 2025
Get the 2025 Louisiana EBT deposit schedule and learn what to do about late payments or if you run out of benefits early.
Sep 30, 2025
Steve Austin
Louisiana EBT Deposit Schedule for 2025
Get the 2025 Louisiana EBT deposit schedule and learn what to do about late payments or if you run out of benefits early.
Sep 30, 2025
Steve Austin
Louisiana EBT Deposit Schedule for 2025
Get the 2025 Louisiana EBT deposit schedule and learn what to do about late payments or if you run out of benefits early.
Sep 30, 2025
Steve Austin
Louisiana EBT Deposit Schedule for 2025
Get the 2025 Louisiana EBT deposit schedule and learn what to do about late payments or if you run out of benefits early.
Sep 30, 2025
Steve Austin
Louisiana EBT Deposit Schedule for 2025
Get the 2025 Louisiana EBT deposit schedule and learn what to do about late payments or if you run out of benefits early.
Sep 30, 2025
Steve Austin
SHARE
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Knowing when your benefits will hit your EBT card helps you plan your grocery shopping and budget for the month. For families in Louisiana, this date is important for managing household expenses without stress.
In this guide, you'll find out when to expect your Louisiana EBT deposits and what to do if they seem late.
Monthly EBT Deposit Schedule in Louisiana
In Louisiana, your SNAP benefit deposit date is determined by the last digit of the head-of-household’s Social Security number (SSN). Households with an elderly or disabled member receive their benefits between the 1st and 4th of each month. Funds are available by 5:00 a.m. the morning after the scheduled deposit date.
Here is the monthly deposit schedule for most SNAP households:
SSN ending in 0: 5th of the month
SSN ending in 1: 7th of the month
SSN ending in 2: 9th of the month
SSN ending in 3: 11th of the month
SSN ending in 4: 13th of the month
SSN ending in 5: 15th of the month
SSN ending in 6: 17th of the month
SSN ending in 7: 19th of the month
SSN ending in 8: 21st of the month
SSN ending in 9: 23rd of the month
For those receiving cash assistance through FITAP or KCSP on the same EBT card, funds are deposited on the first day of each month and are ready to use the next morning.
How to Find Your Case Number
You will need your case number when contacting the DCFS or checking your benefit details. This number is printed on official correspondence from the department, and you can find it in a couple of places:
On your case approval notice.
In your CAFÉ account on the Louisiana DCFS SNAP portal.
If you cannot locate your number, call the DCFS at 1-888-524-3578 for assistance or contact your parish office through the SNAP office locator.
How to Check Your EBT Deposit Status in Louisiana
To confirm your deposit has been made, you can check your EBT balance in a few different ways. Our Louisiana balance guide covers all the options. Below are three of the most convenient methods:
The Benny app: This app shows your real-time SNAP and cash balance on any smartphone. It also provides cash back on EBT purchases from many popular stores. After you download the app, enter your ZIP code and link your EBT card to see your balance.
Online portal: The official LifeInCheck EBT portal shows your current balance and transaction history. First-time users must create an account with their card number and personal details. You can access the portal through the Louisiana DCFS EBT page.
Customer service hotline: Call the 24/7 Louisiana EBT customer service line at 1-888-997-1117. After you select your language, the automated system will prompt you for your card number and PIN to provide your current SNAP and cash balances.
Check Your SNAP & EBT Cash Balance In Real Time
Download the app
Why Your EBT Deposit Might Be Late and What to Do
A number of issues can postpone your monthly benefit deposit.
Administrative or Eligibility Snags
Delays often stem from paperwork issues. If you file recertification forms late or submit incomplete documents like proof of income or housing, your case can be suspended. Missing a required interview or reporting changes can also trigger a review that temporarily holds your benefits. Unresolved overpayment claims or sanctions can also freeze your account.
Disaster-Related Workload Spikes
After major events like hurricanes, the state may open Disaster SNAP (DSNAP) or issue mass replacement benefits. The resulting high call volumes and extra caseloads for DCFS can slow down the processing of regular monthly deposits for all recipients.
Staffing and Operational Constraints
Documented staff shortages at DCFS can lengthen the time it takes for workers to process cases and release benefits. Additionally, temporary office closures or a shift to remote work can slow down document scanning and the supervisor approvals needed to load funds onto your card.
System or Fraud-Related Holds
A statewide EBT network outage can force a delay in loading benefits until the system is fully restored. In other cases, accounts flagged for unusual activity may be suspended while DCFS investigates, which can postpone your next deposit until the review is complete.
Do EBT Benefits Expire or Roll Over?
Unused benefits in Louisiana do not disappear at the end of the month. Both food and cash assistance balances will roll over, remaining on your card for future use.
Food Assistance
Your SNAP balance carries forward until you spend it. Benefits are only removed if they have been on the card for nine months and the card has not been used at all during that same period.
Making any purchase, even a small one, resets the nine-month clock for your entire food benefit balance. Once benefits are removed, they cannot be replaced, but your case remains open for future deposits.
Cash Assistance
The nine-month removal rule does not apply to cash assistance programs like FITAP or Kinship Care. Unspent cash simply rolls over each month and stays on your card until you spend or withdraw it.
However, you must keep the account active to prevent it from being closed. A purchase, withdrawal, or balance inquiry stops the card from being marked as dormant. Accounts idle for a year or more may be closed.
You can check your real-time SNAP and cash balance with the Benny app. After downloading the app, you can sign up with your phone number or email, enter your zip code, and link your EBT card to see your funds.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cashback On SNAP
Download the app
What to Do if Your EBT Balance Runs Out Early
Seeing your EBT balance dwindle before the end of the month can be stressful, but it does not mean you are out of options. Fortunately, there are several avenues you can pursue to bridge the gap until your next deposit. Consider these strategies if you find yourself running short on food assistance.
Apply for Expedited (Emergency) SNAP Benefits
If your balance hits zero, you may qualify for emergency SNAP benefits. The Department of Children & Family Services (DCFS) can process these requests quickly to provide temporary relief.
To apply, gather your ID, Louisiana Purchase Card or case ID, and proof of your current cash on hand and income from the last 30 days. You can call DCFS at 1-888-524-3578 and follow prompts 3-2-1-3-6. You can also file a one-page application online or in a parish office, stating you need “expedited service.”
DCFS screens applications the same day. According to the SNAP FAQs, you may qualify if your gross income is under $150 and resources are below $100, or if shelter costs exceed your funds. Benefits are loaded within seven days of your interview.
Ask DCFS to Recalculate Your Regular SNAP Budget
When your financial situation changes, you can ask DCFS to reassess your monthly SNAP amount. A drop in income or a rise in household expenses could mean you are eligible for more benefits.
Report changes through the CAFÉ Self-Service Portal by selecting “Report My Changes” and uploading proof. You can also phone LAHelpU at 1-888-524-3578 (path 3-2-1-3-6) or fax documents to 225-663-3164.
Be sure to report changes such as:
New rent or utility increases
Reduced work hours
Added household members
Child-care fees
Medical costs for anyone 60+ or disabled
Once verified, DCFS will issue any extra benefits from the date you reported the change. This often provides a mid-month top-up before your next scheduled deposit.
Use Statewide Locators for Free Food Boxes
Instead of making last-minute grocery trips, you can schedule pickups for free food boxes from local organizations. Enter your ZIP code on the “Find Food” map from Feeding Louisiana to see every pantry, mobile market, and meal site in your parish, along with their hours and ID rules.
You can also get this information by dialing 2-1-1 or texting your ZIP code to 898-211.
When you call a site, ask if they distribute USDA TEFAP family boxes or Commodity Supplemental Food Program boxes for seniors. These packages can replace a full grocery run, and many sites allow drive-through pickup once you pre-register.
Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny
The Benny app helps you track your EBT balance in real time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, and Costco. After you link your EBT card and make a purchase, scan your receipt with the app to receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your funds and get more from your EBT benefits.
SHARE
Knowing when your benefits will hit your EBT card helps you plan your grocery shopping and budget for the month. For families in Louisiana, this date is important for managing household expenses without stress.
In this guide, you'll find out when to expect your Louisiana EBT deposits and what to do if they seem late.
Monthly EBT Deposit Schedule in Louisiana
In Louisiana, your SNAP benefit deposit date is determined by the last digit of the head-of-household’s Social Security number (SSN). Households with an elderly or disabled member receive their benefits between the 1st and 4th of each month. Funds are available by 5:00 a.m. the morning after the scheduled deposit date.
Here is the monthly deposit schedule for most SNAP households:
SSN ending in 0: 5th of the month
SSN ending in 1: 7th of the month
SSN ending in 2: 9th of the month
SSN ending in 3: 11th of the month
SSN ending in 4: 13th of the month
SSN ending in 5: 15th of the month
SSN ending in 6: 17th of the month
SSN ending in 7: 19th of the month
SSN ending in 8: 21st of the month
SSN ending in 9: 23rd of the month
For those receiving cash assistance through FITAP or KCSP on the same EBT card, funds are deposited on the first day of each month and are ready to use the next morning.
How to Find Your Case Number
You will need your case number when contacting the DCFS or checking your benefit details. This number is printed on official correspondence from the department, and you can find it in a couple of places:
On your case approval notice.
In your CAFÉ account on the Louisiana DCFS SNAP portal.
If you cannot locate your number, call the DCFS at 1-888-524-3578 for assistance or contact your parish office through the SNAP office locator.
How to Check Your EBT Deposit Status in Louisiana
To confirm your deposit has been made, you can check your EBT balance in a few different ways. Our Louisiana balance guide covers all the options. Below are three of the most convenient methods:
The Benny app: This app shows your real-time SNAP and cash balance on any smartphone. It also provides cash back on EBT purchases from many popular stores. After you download the app, enter your ZIP code and link your EBT card to see your balance.
Online portal: The official LifeInCheck EBT portal shows your current balance and transaction history. First-time users must create an account with their card number and personal details. You can access the portal through the Louisiana DCFS EBT page.
Customer service hotline: Call the 24/7 Louisiana EBT customer service line at 1-888-997-1117. After you select your language, the automated system will prompt you for your card number and PIN to provide your current SNAP and cash balances.
Check Your SNAP & EBT Cash Balance In Real Time
Download the app
Why Your EBT Deposit Might Be Late and What to Do
A number of issues can postpone your monthly benefit deposit.
Administrative or Eligibility Snags
Delays often stem from paperwork issues. If you file recertification forms late or submit incomplete documents like proof of income or housing, your case can be suspended. Missing a required interview or reporting changes can also trigger a review that temporarily holds your benefits. Unresolved overpayment claims or sanctions can also freeze your account.
Disaster-Related Workload Spikes
After major events like hurricanes, the state may open Disaster SNAP (DSNAP) or issue mass replacement benefits. The resulting high call volumes and extra caseloads for DCFS can slow down the processing of regular monthly deposits for all recipients.
Staffing and Operational Constraints
Documented staff shortages at DCFS can lengthen the time it takes for workers to process cases and release benefits. Additionally, temporary office closures or a shift to remote work can slow down document scanning and the supervisor approvals needed to load funds onto your card.
System or Fraud-Related Holds
A statewide EBT network outage can force a delay in loading benefits until the system is fully restored. In other cases, accounts flagged for unusual activity may be suspended while DCFS investigates, which can postpone your next deposit until the review is complete.
Do EBT Benefits Expire or Roll Over?
Unused benefits in Louisiana do not disappear at the end of the month. Both food and cash assistance balances will roll over, remaining on your card for future use.
Food Assistance
Your SNAP balance carries forward until you spend it. Benefits are only removed if they have been on the card for nine months and the card has not been used at all during that same period.
Making any purchase, even a small one, resets the nine-month clock for your entire food benefit balance. Once benefits are removed, they cannot be replaced, but your case remains open for future deposits.
Cash Assistance
The nine-month removal rule does not apply to cash assistance programs like FITAP or Kinship Care. Unspent cash simply rolls over each month and stays on your card until you spend or withdraw it.
However, you must keep the account active to prevent it from being closed. A purchase, withdrawal, or balance inquiry stops the card from being marked as dormant. Accounts idle for a year or more may be closed.
You can check your real-time SNAP and cash balance with the Benny app. After downloading the app, you can sign up with your phone number or email, enter your zip code, and link your EBT card to see your funds.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cashback On SNAP
Download the app
What to Do if Your EBT Balance Runs Out Early
Seeing your EBT balance dwindle before the end of the month can be stressful, but it does not mean you are out of options. Fortunately, there are several avenues you can pursue to bridge the gap until your next deposit. Consider these strategies if you find yourself running short on food assistance.
Apply for Expedited (Emergency) SNAP Benefits
If your balance hits zero, you may qualify for emergency SNAP benefits. The Department of Children & Family Services (DCFS) can process these requests quickly to provide temporary relief.
To apply, gather your ID, Louisiana Purchase Card or case ID, and proof of your current cash on hand and income from the last 30 days. You can call DCFS at 1-888-524-3578 and follow prompts 3-2-1-3-6. You can also file a one-page application online or in a parish office, stating you need “expedited service.”
DCFS screens applications the same day. According to the SNAP FAQs, you may qualify if your gross income is under $150 and resources are below $100, or if shelter costs exceed your funds. Benefits are loaded within seven days of your interview.
Ask DCFS to Recalculate Your Regular SNAP Budget
When your financial situation changes, you can ask DCFS to reassess your monthly SNAP amount. A drop in income or a rise in household expenses could mean you are eligible for more benefits.
Report changes through the CAFÉ Self-Service Portal by selecting “Report My Changes” and uploading proof. You can also phone LAHelpU at 1-888-524-3578 (path 3-2-1-3-6) or fax documents to 225-663-3164.
Be sure to report changes such as:
New rent or utility increases
Reduced work hours
Added household members
Child-care fees
Medical costs for anyone 60+ or disabled
Once verified, DCFS will issue any extra benefits from the date you reported the change. This often provides a mid-month top-up before your next scheduled deposit.
Use Statewide Locators for Free Food Boxes
Instead of making last-minute grocery trips, you can schedule pickups for free food boxes from local organizations. Enter your ZIP code on the “Find Food” map from Feeding Louisiana to see every pantry, mobile market, and meal site in your parish, along with their hours and ID rules.
You can also get this information by dialing 2-1-1 or texting your ZIP code to 898-211.
When you call a site, ask if they distribute USDA TEFAP family boxes or Commodity Supplemental Food Program boxes for seniors. These packages can replace a full grocery run, and many sites allow drive-through pickup once you pre-register.
Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny
The Benny app helps you track your EBT balance in real time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, and Costco. After you link your EBT card and make a purchase, scan your receipt with the app to receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your funds and get more from your EBT benefits.
SHARE
Knowing when your benefits will hit your EBT card helps you plan your grocery shopping and budget for the month. For families in Louisiana, this date is important for managing household expenses without stress.
In this guide, you'll find out when to expect your Louisiana EBT deposits and what to do if they seem late.
Monthly EBT Deposit Schedule in Louisiana
In Louisiana, your SNAP benefit deposit date is determined by the last digit of the head-of-household’s Social Security number (SSN). Households with an elderly or disabled member receive their benefits between the 1st and 4th of each month. Funds are available by 5:00 a.m. the morning after the scheduled deposit date.
Here is the monthly deposit schedule for most SNAP households:
SSN ending in 0: 5th of the month
SSN ending in 1: 7th of the month
SSN ending in 2: 9th of the month
SSN ending in 3: 11th of the month
SSN ending in 4: 13th of the month
SSN ending in 5: 15th of the month
SSN ending in 6: 17th of the month
SSN ending in 7: 19th of the month
SSN ending in 8: 21st of the month
SSN ending in 9: 23rd of the month
For those receiving cash assistance through FITAP or KCSP on the same EBT card, funds are deposited on the first day of each month and are ready to use the next morning.
How to Find Your Case Number
You will need your case number when contacting the DCFS or checking your benefit details. This number is printed on official correspondence from the department, and you can find it in a couple of places:
On your case approval notice.
In your CAFÉ account on the Louisiana DCFS SNAP portal.
If you cannot locate your number, call the DCFS at 1-888-524-3578 for assistance or contact your parish office through the SNAP office locator.
How to Check Your EBT Deposit Status in Louisiana
To confirm your deposit has been made, you can check your EBT balance in a few different ways. Our Louisiana balance guide covers all the options. Below are three of the most convenient methods:
The Benny app: This app shows your real-time SNAP and cash balance on any smartphone. It also provides cash back on EBT purchases from many popular stores. After you download the app, enter your ZIP code and link your EBT card to see your balance.
Online portal: The official LifeInCheck EBT portal shows your current balance and transaction history. First-time users must create an account with their card number and personal details. You can access the portal through the Louisiana DCFS EBT page.
Customer service hotline: Call the 24/7 Louisiana EBT customer service line at 1-888-997-1117. After you select your language, the automated system will prompt you for your card number and PIN to provide your current SNAP and cash balances.
Check Your SNAP & EBT Cash Balance In Real Time
Download the app
Why Your EBT Deposit Might Be Late and What to Do
A number of issues can postpone your monthly benefit deposit.
Administrative or Eligibility Snags
Delays often stem from paperwork issues. If you file recertification forms late or submit incomplete documents like proof of income or housing, your case can be suspended. Missing a required interview or reporting changes can also trigger a review that temporarily holds your benefits. Unresolved overpayment claims or sanctions can also freeze your account.
Disaster-Related Workload Spikes
After major events like hurricanes, the state may open Disaster SNAP (DSNAP) or issue mass replacement benefits. The resulting high call volumes and extra caseloads for DCFS can slow down the processing of regular monthly deposits for all recipients.
Staffing and Operational Constraints
Documented staff shortages at DCFS can lengthen the time it takes for workers to process cases and release benefits. Additionally, temporary office closures or a shift to remote work can slow down document scanning and the supervisor approvals needed to load funds onto your card.
System or Fraud-Related Holds
A statewide EBT network outage can force a delay in loading benefits until the system is fully restored. In other cases, accounts flagged for unusual activity may be suspended while DCFS investigates, which can postpone your next deposit until the review is complete.
Do EBT Benefits Expire or Roll Over?
Unused benefits in Louisiana do not disappear at the end of the month. Both food and cash assistance balances will roll over, remaining on your card for future use.
Food Assistance
Your SNAP balance carries forward until you spend it. Benefits are only removed if they have been on the card for nine months and the card has not been used at all during that same period.
Making any purchase, even a small one, resets the nine-month clock for your entire food benefit balance. Once benefits are removed, they cannot be replaced, but your case remains open for future deposits.
Cash Assistance
The nine-month removal rule does not apply to cash assistance programs like FITAP or Kinship Care. Unspent cash simply rolls over each month and stays on your card until you spend or withdraw it.
However, you must keep the account active to prevent it from being closed. A purchase, withdrawal, or balance inquiry stops the card from being marked as dormant. Accounts idle for a year or more may be closed.
You can check your real-time SNAP and cash balance with the Benny app. After downloading the app, you can sign up with your phone number or email, enter your zip code, and link your EBT card to see your funds.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cashback On SNAP
Download the app
What to Do if Your EBT Balance Runs Out Early
Seeing your EBT balance dwindle before the end of the month can be stressful, but it does not mean you are out of options. Fortunately, there are several avenues you can pursue to bridge the gap until your next deposit. Consider these strategies if you find yourself running short on food assistance.
Apply for Expedited (Emergency) SNAP Benefits
If your balance hits zero, you may qualify for emergency SNAP benefits. The Department of Children & Family Services (DCFS) can process these requests quickly to provide temporary relief.
To apply, gather your ID, Louisiana Purchase Card or case ID, and proof of your current cash on hand and income from the last 30 days. You can call DCFS at 1-888-524-3578 and follow prompts 3-2-1-3-6. You can also file a one-page application online or in a parish office, stating you need “expedited service.”
DCFS screens applications the same day. According to the SNAP FAQs, you may qualify if your gross income is under $150 and resources are below $100, or if shelter costs exceed your funds. Benefits are loaded within seven days of your interview.
Ask DCFS to Recalculate Your Regular SNAP Budget
When your financial situation changes, you can ask DCFS to reassess your monthly SNAP amount. A drop in income or a rise in household expenses could mean you are eligible for more benefits.
Report changes through the CAFÉ Self-Service Portal by selecting “Report My Changes” and uploading proof. You can also phone LAHelpU at 1-888-524-3578 (path 3-2-1-3-6) or fax documents to 225-663-3164.
Be sure to report changes such as:
New rent or utility increases
Reduced work hours
Added household members
Child-care fees
Medical costs for anyone 60+ or disabled
Once verified, DCFS will issue any extra benefits from the date you reported the change. This often provides a mid-month top-up before your next scheduled deposit.
Use Statewide Locators for Free Food Boxes
Instead of making last-minute grocery trips, you can schedule pickups for free food boxes from local organizations. Enter your ZIP code on the “Find Food” map from Feeding Louisiana to see every pantry, mobile market, and meal site in your parish, along with their hours and ID rules.
You can also get this information by dialing 2-1-1 or texting your ZIP code to 898-211.
When you call a site, ask if they distribute USDA TEFAP family boxes or Commodity Supplemental Food Program boxes for seniors. These packages can replace a full grocery run, and many sites allow drive-through pickup once you pre-register.
Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny
The Benny app helps you track your EBT balance in real time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, and Costco. After you link your EBT card and make a purchase, scan your receipt with the app to receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your funds and get more from your EBT benefits.
SHARE
Knowing when your benefits will hit your EBT card helps you plan your grocery shopping and budget for the month. For families in Louisiana, this date is important for managing household expenses without stress.
In this guide, you'll find out when to expect your Louisiana EBT deposits and what to do if they seem late.
Monthly EBT Deposit Schedule in Louisiana
In Louisiana, your SNAP benefit deposit date is determined by the last digit of the head-of-household’s Social Security number (SSN). Households with an elderly or disabled member receive their benefits between the 1st and 4th of each month. Funds are available by 5:00 a.m. the morning after the scheduled deposit date.
Here is the monthly deposit schedule for most SNAP households:
SSN ending in 0: 5th of the month
SSN ending in 1: 7th of the month
SSN ending in 2: 9th of the month
SSN ending in 3: 11th of the month
SSN ending in 4: 13th of the month
SSN ending in 5: 15th of the month
SSN ending in 6: 17th of the month
SSN ending in 7: 19th of the month
SSN ending in 8: 21st of the month
SSN ending in 9: 23rd of the month
For those receiving cash assistance through FITAP or KCSP on the same EBT card, funds are deposited on the first day of each month and are ready to use the next morning.
How to Find Your Case Number
You will need your case number when contacting the DCFS or checking your benefit details. This number is printed on official correspondence from the department, and you can find it in a couple of places:
On your case approval notice.
In your CAFÉ account on the Louisiana DCFS SNAP portal.
If you cannot locate your number, call the DCFS at 1-888-524-3578 for assistance or contact your parish office through the SNAP office locator.
How to Check Your EBT Deposit Status in Louisiana
To confirm your deposit has been made, you can check your EBT balance in a few different ways. Our Louisiana balance guide covers all the options. Below are three of the most convenient methods:
The Benny app: This app shows your real-time SNAP and cash balance on any smartphone. It also provides cash back on EBT purchases from many popular stores. After you download the app, enter your ZIP code and link your EBT card to see your balance.
Online portal: The official LifeInCheck EBT portal shows your current balance and transaction history. First-time users must create an account with their card number and personal details. You can access the portal through the Louisiana DCFS EBT page.
Customer service hotline: Call the 24/7 Louisiana EBT customer service line at 1-888-997-1117. After you select your language, the automated system will prompt you for your card number and PIN to provide your current SNAP and cash balances.
Check Your SNAP & EBT Cash Balance In Real Time
Download the app
Why Your EBT Deposit Might Be Late and What to Do
A number of issues can postpone your monthly benefit deposit.
Administrative or Eligibility Snags
Delays often stem from paperwork issues. If you file recertification forms late or submit incomplete documents like proof of income or housing, your case can be suspended. Missing a required interview or reporting changes can also trigger a review that temporarily holds your benefits. Unresolved overpayment claims or sanctions can also freeze your account.
Disaster-Related Workload Spikes
After major events like hurricanes, the state may open Disaster SNAP (DSNAP) or issue mass replacement benefits. The resulting high call volumes and extra caseloads for DCFS can slow down the processing of regular monthly deposits for all recipients.
Staffing and Operational Constraints
Documented staff shortages at DCFS can lengthen the time it takes for workers to process cases and release benefits. Additionally, temporary office closures or a shift to remote work can slow down document scanning and the supervisor approvals needed to load funds onto your card.
System or Fraud-Related Holds
A statewide EBT network outage can force a delay in loading benefits until the system is fully restored. In other cases, accounts flagged for unusual activity may be suspended while DCFS investigates, which can postpone your next deposit until the review is complete.
Do EBT Benefits Expire or Roll Over?
Unused benefits in Louisiana do not disappear at the end of the month. Both food and cash assistance balances will roll over, remaining on your card for future use.
Food Assistance
Your SNAP balance carries forward until you spend it. Benefits are only removed if they have been on the card for nine months and the card has not been used at all during that same period.
Making any purchase, even a small one, resets the nine-month clock for your entire food benefit balance. Once benefits are removed, they cannot be replaced, but your case remains open for future deposits.
Cash Assistance
The nine-month removal rule does not apply to cash assistance programs like FITAP or Kinship Care. Unspent cash simply rolls over each month and stays on your card until you spend or withdraw it.
However, you must keep the account active to prevent it from being closed. A purchase, withdrawal, or balance inquiry stops the card from being marked as dormant. Accounts idle for a year or more may be closed.
You can check your real-time SNAP and cash balance with the Benny app. After downloading the app, you can sign up with your phone number or email, enter your zip code, and link your EBT card to see your funds.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cashback On SNAP
Download the app
What to Do if Your EBT Balance Runs Out Early
Seeing your EBT balance dwindle before the end of the month can be stressful, but it does not mean you are out of options. Fortunately, there are several avenues you can pursue to bridge the gap until your next deposit. Consider these strategies if you find yourself running short on food assistance.
Apply for Expedited (Emergency) SNAP Benefits
If your balance hits zero, you may qualify for emergency SNAP benefits. The Department of Children & Family Services (DCFS) can process these requests quickly to provide temporary relief.
To apply, gather your ID, Louisiana Purchase Card or case ID, and proof of your current cash on hand and income from the last 30 days. You can call DCFS at 1-888-524-3578 and follow prompts 3-2-1-3-6. You can also file a one-page application online or in a parish office, stating you need “expedited service.”
DCFS screens applications the same day. According to the SNAP FAQs, you may qualify if your gross income is under $150 and resources are below $100, or if shelter costs exceed your funds. Benefits are loaded within seven days of your interview.
Ask DCFS to Recalculate Your Regular SNAP Budget
When your financial situation changes, you can ask DCFS to reassess your monthly SNAP amount. A drop in income or a rise in household expenses could mean you are eligible for more benefits.
Report changes through the CAFÉ Self-Service Portal by selecting “Report My Changes” and uploading proof. You can also phone LAHelpU at 1-888-524-3578 (path 3-2-1-3-6) or fax documents to 225-663-3164.
Be sure to report changes such as:
New rent or utility increases
Reduced work hours
Added household members
Child-care fees
Medical costs for anyone 60+ or disabled
Once verified, DCFS will issue any extra benefits from the date you reported the change. This often provides a mid-month top-up before your next scheduled deposit.
Use Statewide Locators for Free Food Boxes
Instead of making last-minute grocery trips, you can schedule pickups for free food boxes from local organizations. Enter your ZIP code on the “Find Food” map from Feeding Louisiana to see every pantry, mobile market, and meal site in your parish, along with their hours and ID rules.
You can also get this information by dialing 2-1-1 or texting your ZIP code to 898-211.
When you call a site, ask if they distribute USDA TEFAP family boxes or Commodity Supplemental Food Program boxes for seniors. These packages can replace a full grocery run, and many sites allow drive-through pickup once you pre-register.
Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny
The Benny app helps you track your EBT balance in real time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, and Costco. After you link your EBT card and make a purchase, scan your receipt with the app to receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your funds and get more from your EBT benefits.
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Knowing when your benefits will hit your EBT card helps you plan your grocery shopping and budget for the month. For families in Louisiana, this date is important for managing household expenses without stress.
In this guide, you'll find out when to expect your Louisiana EBT deposits and what to do if they seem late.
Monthly EBT Deposit Schedule in Louisiana
In Louisiana, your SNAP benefit deposit date is determined by the last digit of the head-of-household’s Social Security number (SSN). Households with an elderly or disabled member receive their benefits between the 1st and 4th of each month. Funds are available by 5:00 a.m. the morning after the scheduled deposit date.
Here is the monthly deposit schedule for most SNAP households:
SSN ending in 0: 5th of the month
SSN ending in 1: 7th of the month
SSN ending in 2: 9th of the month
SSN ending in 3: 11th of the month
SSN ending in 4: 13th of the month
SSN ending in 5: 15th of the month
SSN ending in 6: 17th of the month
SSN ending in 7: 19th of the month
SSN ending in 8: 21st of the month
SSN ending in 9: 23rd of the month
For those receiving cash assistance through FITAP or KCSP on the same EBT card, funds are deposited on the first day of each month and are ready to use the next morning.
How to Find Your Case Number
You will need your case number when contacting the DCFS or checking your benefit details. This number is printed on official correspondence from the department, and you can find it in a couple of places:
On your case approval notice.
In your CAFÉ account on the Louisiana DCFS SNAP portal.
If you cannot locate your number, call the DCFS at 1-888-524-3578 for assistance or contact your parish office through the SNAP office locator.
How to Check Your EBT Deposit Status in Louisiana
To confirm your deposit has been made, you can check your EBT balance in a few different ways. Our Louisiana balance guide covers all the options. Below are three of the most convenient methods:
The Benny app: This app shows your real-time SNAP and cash balance on any smartphone. It also provides cash back on EBT purchases from many popular stores. After you download the app, enter your ZIP code and link your EBT card to see your balance.
Online portal: The official LifeInCheck EBT portal shows your current balance and transaction history. First-time users must create an account with their card number and personal details. You can access the portal through the Louisiana DCFS EBT page.
Customer service hotline: Call the 24/7 Louisiana EBT customer service line at 1-888-997-1117. After you select your language, the automated system will prompt you for your card number and PIN to provide your current SNAP and cash balances.
Check Your SNAP & EBT Cash Balance In Real Time
Download the app
Why Your EBT Deposit Might Be Late and What to Do
A number of issues can postpone your monthly benefit deposit.
Administrative or Eligibility Snags
Delays often stem from paperwork issues. If you file recertification forms late or submit incomplete documents like proof of income or housing, your case can be suspended. Missing a required interview or reporting changes can also trigger a review that temporarily holds your benefits. Unresolved overpayment claims or sanctions can also freeze your account.
Disaster-Related Workload Spikes
After major events like hurricanes, the state may open Disaster SNAP (DSNAP) or issue mass replacement benefits. The resulting high call volumes and extra caseloads for DCFS can slow down the processing of regular monthly deposits for all recipients.
Staffing and Operational Constraints
Documented staff shortages at DCFS can lengthen the time it takes for workers to process cases and release benefits. Additionally, temporary office closures or a shift to remote work can slow down document scanning and the supervisor approvals needed to load funds onto your card.
System or Fraud-Related Holds
A statewide EBT network outage can force a delay in loading benefits until the system is fully restored. In other cases, accounts flagged for unusual activity may be suspended while DCFS investigates, which can postpone your next deposit until the review is complete.
Do EBT Benefits Expire or Roll Over?
Unused benefits in Louisiana do not disappear at the end of the month. Both food and cash assistance balances will roll over, remaining on your card for future use.
Food Assistance
Your SNAP balance carries forward until you spend it. Benefits are only removed if they have been on the card for nine months and the card has not been used at all during that same period.
Making any purchase, even a small one, resets the nine-month clock for your entire food benefit balance. Once benefits are removed, they cannot be replaced, but your case remains open for future deposits.
Cash Assistance
The nine-month removal rule does not apply to cash assistance programs like FITAP or Kinship Care. Unspent cash simply rolls over each month and stays on your card until you spend or withdraw it.
However, you must keep the account active to prevent it from being closed. A purchase, withdrawal, or balance inquiry stops the card from being marked as dormant. Accounts idle for a year or more may be closed.
You can check your real-time SNAP and cash balance with the Benny app. After downloading the app, you can sign up with your phone number or email, enter your zip code, and link your EBT card to see your funds.
Check Your EBT Balance & Get Cashback On SNAP
Download the app
What to Do if Your EBT Balance Runs Out Early
Seeing your EBT balance dwindle before the end of the month can be stressful, but it does not mean you are out of options. Fortunately, there are several avenues you can pursue to bridge the gap until your next deposit. Consider these strategies if you find yourself running short on food assistance.
Apply for Expedited (Emergency) SNAP Benefits
If your balance hits zero, you may qualify for emergency SNAP benefits. The Department of Children & Family Services (DCFS) can process these requests quickly to provide temporary relief.
To apply, gather your ID, Louisiana Purchase Card or case ID, and proof of your current cash on hand and income from the last 30 days. You can call DCFS at 1-888-524-3578 and follow prompts 3-2-1-3-6. You can also file a one-page application online or in a parish office, stating you need “expedited service.”
DCFS screens applications the same day. According to the SNAP FAQs, you may qualify if your gross income is under $150 and resources are below $100, or if shelter costs exceed your funds. Benefits are loaded within seven days of your interview.
Ask DCFS to Recalculate Your Regular SNAP Budget
When your financial situation changes, you can ask DCFS to reassess your monthly SNAP amount. A drop in income or a rise in household expenses could mean you are eligible for more benefits.
Report changes through the CAFÉ Self-Service Portal by selecting “Report My Changes” and uploading proof. You can also phone LAHelpU at 1-888-524-3578 (path 3-2-1-3-6) or fax documents to 225-663-3164.
Be sure to report changes such as:
New rent or utility increases
Reduced work hours
Added household members
Child-care fees
Medical costs for anyone 60+ or disabled
Once verified, DCFS will issue any extra benefits from the date you reported the change. This often provides a mid-month top-up before your next scheduled deposit.
Use Statewide Locators for Free Food Boxes
Instead of making last-minute grocery trips, you can schedule pickups for free food boxes from local organizations. Enter your ZIP code on the “Find Food” map from Feeding Louisiana to see every pantry, mobile market, and meal site in your parish, along with their hours and ID rules.
You can also get this information by dialing 2-1-1 or texting your ZIP code to 898-211.
When you call a site, ask if they distribute USDA TEFAP family boxes or Commodity Supplemental Food Program boxes for seniors. These packages can replace a full grocery run, and many sites allow drive-through pickup once you pre-register.
Track Your EBT Balance and Earn Cashback with Benny
The Benny app helps you track your EBT balance in real time and get cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Target, Walmart, Kroger, and Costco. After you link your EBT card and make a purchase, scan your receipt with the app to receive cashback on SNAP-eligible items.
Download Benny to take control of your funds and get more from your EBT benefits.
