Knowing your EBT card balance is essential for managing your SNAP benefits and planning your grocery shopping. In 2026, there are several free and easy ways to check how much you have left on your Electronic Benefits Transfer card without making a trip to the store. Whether you prefer a phone call, a mobile app, or checking online, this guide covers every method available so you always know exactly where your food budget stands.
Stretching your SNAP benefits is important, but so is finding ways to handle expenses that EBT cannot cover. Phone bills, gas, and household supplies are not eligible for SNAP purchases. Apps like I am Beezy let you earn $5 to $15 a day viewing content on your cell phone, providing a modest income stream for those non-food essentials. It complements your food benefits without requiring any upfront cost or commitment. Here is how to keep track of your EBT card balance and make the most of every benefit dollar in 2026.
5 Ways to Check Your EBT Card Balance
Method 1: Call the number on your card
The simplest method is to flip your EBT card over and call the toll-free customer service number printed on the back. The automated phone system will ask you to enter your card number and PIN, then read your current balance aloud. This works from any phone, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. No internet connection required, making it the most accessible option for everyone.
Method 2: Use a free balance-checking app
Several free mobile apps let you check your EBT balance instantly. Fresh EBT (by Propel) is the most popular, with over 5 million users. The app connects to your state's EBT system and displays your current balance, recent transactions, and even when your next deposit is scheduled. It also shows stores and farmers markets near you that accept EBT. Other options include Balance My EBT and Providers. All of these apps are free to download and use.
Method 3: Check your state's EBT portal online
Every state has an online portal where EBT cardholders can log in to view their balance and transaction history. Search for your state name plus "EBT portal" or "EBT online" to find the website. You will need your card number and PIN to log in. Once inside, you can see your full transaction history, pending deposits, and current balance. This method is especially useful if you want a detailed record of your spending.
Method 4: Check at the register
Every time you make a purchase with your EBT card, the remaining balance is printed at the bottom of your receipt. If you are already at the store, this is the easiest way to see what is left. You can also ask the cashier to check your balance before you start shopping so you know exactly how much you have to spend.
Method 5: Use an ATM (for cash benefits only)
If you receive cash benefits in addition to SNAP, you can check your cash balance at most ATMs. Insert your card, enter your PIN, and select "Balance Inquiry." Note that some ATMs charge a fee for this service, so use one from your state's fee-free ATM network when possible. This method only shows your cash benefit balance, not your SNAP food balance.
Understanding Your EBT Statement
What the different balances mean
Your EBT card may carry two separate balances. Your SNAP balance is for food purchases only and can be used at grocery stores, farmers markets, and some online retailers. Your cash benefit balance (if applicable) comes from programs like TANF and can be used for broader purchases or withdrawn as cash. Not all EBT cardholders have cash benefits, so you may only see a SNAP balance.
When your benefits reload each month
SNAP benefits are deposited once per month on a specific date determined by your state. Some states deposit all benefits on the first of the month, while others stagger deposits throughout the first ten days based on your case number or the last digit of your Social Security number. Check your state's deposit schedule so you can plan your shopping trips around when new benefits arrive.
Unused benefits and rollover
SNAP benefits do not expire at the end of the month. Unused benefits roll over and add to next month's deposit. However, if your EBT card is inactive for 12 consecutive months (no purchases or deposits), your remaining balance may be forfeited. As long as you use your card at least once during that period, your balance is safe.
Stretching Your EBT Benefits Further
Shop sales and use coupons
Your EBT card works just like a debit card, so you can combine it with store coupons, manufacturer coupons, and digital deals. Apps like Ibotta offer cash back on groceries purchased with EBT. Many stores run weekly sales on staples like meat, produce, and dairy that can stretch your benefits significantly. Planning meals around what is on sale is one of the most effective budgeting strategies.
Double your dollars at farmers markets
Many farmers markets participate in programs like Double Up Food Bucks or SNAP Market Match. When you spend $10 in SNAP benefits at a participating market, you receive an additional $10 in free tokens to spend on fruits and vegetables. This effectively doubles your produce budget and gives your family access to fresh, locally grown food.
Earning extra for non-food expenses
With I am Beezy, you can build a small income stream to cover the things EBT cannot buy. Household supplies, cleaning products, toiletries, school supplies, and over-the-counter medications all cost money, and SNAP does not cover any of them. Active Beezy users earn $150 to $300 per month by viewing content on their phones for 20 to 30 minutes a day. That extra income can fill the gap between what your benefits cover and what your household actually needs.
| Non-Food Expense | Typical Monthly Cost | Beezy Can Help Cover |
|---|---|---|
| Household cleaning supplies | $20 - $40 | Yes |
| Toiletries and personal care | $25 - $50 | Yes |
| Laundry detergent and supplies | $15 - $30 | Yes |
| School supplies for kids | $20 - $40 | Yes |
| Over-the-counter medicine | $10 - $30 | Yes |
| Cell phone prepaid plan | $25 - $50 | Yes |
Frequently Asked Questions About EBT Card Balance
What do I do if my EBT card is lost or stolen?
Call the customer service number for your state's EBT program immediately. They will deactivate your lost card and issue a replacement, usually within 5 to 7 business days. Your balance is protected and will transfer to the new card. In some states, you can request a replacement card online or at your local SNAP office for faster service.
Can I use my EBT card in another state?
Yes. EBT cards work at authorized retailers in all 50 states, Washington DC, the US Virgin Islands, and Guam. If you travel or move, your card will function at any store that accepts EBT. However, you must apply for SNAP in the state where you currently reside. If you move permanently, you will need to transfer your case to your new state.
Why is my EBT balance lower than expected?
Check your recent transaction history through your state's online portal or the Fresh EBT app. Common reasons for unexpected balance changes include purchases you forgot about, a pending transaction that has now processed, or a reduction in your monthly benefit amount due to a change in income or household size reported during recertification.
Can I earn money to cover things EBT does not buy?
Absolutely. Many SNAP recipients supplement their benefits with small income sources for non-food expenses. I am Beezy is one option that requires no investment and can be done from home. Just remember to report any consistent income to your SNAP caseworker to stay in compliance with program rules.
Conclusion
Checking your EBT card balance regularly is a simple habit that helps you budget effectively and avoid surprises at the checkout line. Whether you call the number on your card, use a free app like Fresh EBT, or log into your state portal, knowing your balance takes less than a minute. While you manage your SNAP benefits carefully, think about ways to address the non-food costs that EBT does not cover. Sign up for I am Beezy for free and start building a small income stream from your phone. Every extra dollar helps when you are working to get your finances on solid ground.
