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1. What should I do if I am unable to get to one of the offices to apply?

If you are unable to come into the office, you can appoint someone you trust to represent you in the office or an application can be taken over the phone. You can also download an application (PDF) and mail it in.

2. When will my benefits go into my account?

Your benefits will be available after 6 a.m. on the same day each month according to the last digit of the head of household's Social Security Number, even if that day is on a weekend or a holiday.

3. I have received my EBT card. How can I get it activated?

Activation

You can call customer service at 888-622-7328. A recorded message with instructions will ask you to enter the card number, then your social security number then 4 digits to be used as your pin number (your choice). At this time, the procedure for individuals without a social security number is to use their birth date. It is recommended that at least temporarily, those without socials should come in and activate the card in the DSS office.

Additional Assistance

f you have additional questions or problems, just bring your EBT card and some form of identification (a picture I.D. is preferred) to our office. You will receive training on how to use your EBT card and you must have a personal identification number (PIN) to activate your card. After your training class we will assist you in activating your card.

4. What is the EBT customer service number?

The toll free number is 888-622-7328 and they are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

5. When will my application be completed?

Emergency benefits must be completed within 7 days from your date of application. Applications that do not meet emergency criteria must be completed within 30 days from your date of application.

6. When will I receive my EBT card?

EBT cards should be received within 3 to 5 days after your Food Stamp case is completed.

7. What do I do if I have a change in my situation?

Your caseworker will review what changes are required to be reported when you apply.

8. Will I receive a new EBT card each month?

No. You use the same card each month. If your benefits terminate, you should keep your card. If you reapply, you may have your benefits deposited into the old EBT account. Be sure to let your caseworker know that you still have an EBT card. You can even keep your same pin number.

9. What happens if I use the wrong pin number when I am shopping?

If you try to use the wrong pin number 4 times in a row your EBT card will not work anymore that day. You will have to wait until after 12:01 a.m. the next day to try again.

10. How can I check my balance on my EBT card?

Call the customer service line at 888-622-7328. The number can be located on the back of your card. Any remaining balance at the end of the month is rolled over into the next month.

11. Why didnt I get the full benefits for the month I applied initially?

Benefits are prorated for the month of application based on your date of application. For example, if you apply on December 8, 2002, you would receive benefits from December 8, 2002 through December 31, 2002 if eligible.

12. How is the amount of my benefit determined?

The amount of Food and Nutrition benefits you may receive are determined by the number of people in the household, the amount of income received by the people in the household, the households shelter expenses and the amount of medical expenses you have to pay that are not reimbursed (persons 60 or older or disabled