Finding your food stamps missing from your EBT card can be stressful. This article explains how the EBT system works, when benefits are distributed, and what steps to take if your benefits aren’t available.
Understanding the EBT System
The Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) system utilizes a card similar to a debit or credit card to access Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) benefits. This system replaced paper food stamps, offering a more convenient and secure way to receive and use benefits at authorized USDA retailers, which includes most major grocery stores.
Benefits are deposited directly into your EBT account each month after your eligibility is determined by your local Department of Social Services (DSS) office. You access these funds using your EBT card and your Personal Identification Number (PIN).
EBT Deposit Schedule
Your benefits are typically available on the same day each month, based on the last digit of your Social Security Number (SSN). This schedule applies even if the deposit date falls on a weekend or holiday. Benefits are available after 6:00 AM on the following days:
| Last Digit of SSN | Benefit Availability Date |
|---|---|
| 1 | 3rd of the month |
| 2 | 5th of the month |
| 3 | 7th of the month |
| 4 | 9th of the month |
| 5 | 11th of the month |
| 6 | 13th of the month |
| 7 | 15th of the month |
| 8 | 17th of the month |
| 9 | 19th of the month |
| 0 | 21st of the month |
If you don’t have an SSN, benefits are available on the 3rd of each month. It’s crucial to check your EBT card balance before shopping to avoid unexpected issues at checkout.
Potential Reasons for Missing Food Stamps
If your food stamps are not on your card as expected, several factors could be at play:
- Incorrect Deposit Date: Double-check the deposit schedule based on your SSN to ensure you’re expecting your benefits on the correct day.
- Eligibility Issues: Changes in your household income or circumstances may affect your eligibility. Contact your local DSS office to verify your current status.
- Card Issues: A lost, stolen, or damaged card can prevent access to your benefits. Report any card issues immediately to 1-888-622-7328.
- PIN Problems: Entering an incorrect PIN multiple times can lock your card. If you’ve forgotten your PIN or have been locked out, contact the number on the back of your EBT card for assistance.
Pandemic EBT (P-EBT) Considerations
Pandemic EBT (P-EBT) benefits, designed to assist families with children who missed school meals due to COVID-19, have a different distribution schedule than regular FNS benefits. Information about P-EBT eligibility and issuance dates can be found at www.ncdhhs.gov/pebt. P-EBT benefits are not issued on the same schedule as your regular monthly FNS benefits.
Checking Your EBT Card Balance
Regularly checking your balance is essential to manage your benefits effectively. You can check your balance 24/7 through several methods:
- Phone: Call 1-888-622-7328.
- Website: Visit www.ebtedge.com and click on “More Information” under EBT Cardholders.
- Mobile App: Download the free ebtEDGE mobile app from the Apple Store or Google Play.
What to Do If Your Benefits Are Still Missing
If you’ve confirmed the deposit date, checked your card and PIN, and your food stamps are still missing, contact your local DSS office or the EBT customer service number immediately for further assistance. They can investigate the issue and help resolve any problems with your account.
