Where to Find Your Case Number
Your case number is on the approval letter you received when your food stamps account was opened. Look for a document titled "Notice of Decision" or "Benefit Notice" — it will have a multi-digit number printed near the top, usually labeled "Case Number" or "Client ID." If you still have that letter, you have your number.
If you cannot find the original letter, your case number is also on your EBT card itself. The number appears on the front of the card, printed below your name. You do not need to call anyone or log in anywhere — it is right there on the physical card you use to buy food.
Your case number may also appear on your monthly benefit statement, which arrives by mail or email depending on how you set up your account. This statement shows how much you received that month and when the next deposit arrives.
Key Takeaways
- Your case number is printed on your EBT card below your name, so check the card itself first.
- The approval letter you received when you first got food stamps has your case number near the top under "Case Number" or "Client ID."
- Monthly benefit statements also display your case number and arrive by mail or email.
- You can call your state's food stamps office and provide your name and date of birth to have them look up your case number over the phone.
- Online portals run by your state let you log in with your Social Security number or driver's license to view your case number.
Calling Your State Food Stamps Office
If you cannot locate your case number in writing, call your state's food stamps program directly. The phone number is on the back of your EBT card. When you call, have your name, date of birth, and Social Security number ready. The representative will look up your account and read your case number to you over the phone.
Wait times vary by state and time of day. Early morning calls, especially on weekdays, tend to be faster. Some states also offer callback options so you do not have to hold the entire time.
Using Your State's Online Portal
Most states run an online account portal where you can log in and see your case information, including your case number. The portal is usually part of your state's Department of Human Services or Department of Social Services website. Search "[your state name] food stamps login" or "[your state name] SNAP login" to find the correct site.
To log in, you will need either your Social Security number or your driver's license number, plus a password you created when you set up the account. If you forgot your password, the site has a "Forgot Password" link that will walk you through resetting it. Once you are logged in, your case number appears on your dashboard or account summary page.
What Your Case Number Is Used For
Your case number identifies your specific food stamps account in your state's system. You will need it if you contact your state office to ask about your balance, report a change in your household, or troubleshoot a problem with your benefits. It is also the number to provide if you are working with a caseworker or if you need to appeal a decision about your account.
The case number is unique to you and your household. Do not share it with anyone except official food stamps staff or your own caseworker. If someone calls claiming to be from the food stamps office and asks for your case number unprompted, hang up — the real office will already have your information.
If Your Case Number Has Changed
Case numbers do not normally change once they are assigned. However, if you moved to a different state, your old case number will no longer work because each state runs its own food stamps program. You will need to open a new account in your new state, and you will receive a new case number.
If you believe your case number changed for any other reason, call your state office to confirm. It is possible you are looking at an old number from a closed account, or the office may have reassigned your number if your account was inactive for a long time. The staff can clarify which number is currently active.
Keeping Your Case Number Safe
Treat your case number like you would your Social Security number. Do not post it on social media or share it in emails. Scammers sometimes pose as food stamps staff and ask for case numbers to steal benefits or personal information.
If you suspect someone has used your case number fraudulently, call your state office right away. They can review your account for unauthorized activity and help you find it. Many states also have a fraud hotline you can call to report suspicious activity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I lost my EBT card and do not have the approval letter?
Call your state food stamps office with your name, date of birth, and Social Security number. They will look up your case number in their system and read it to you. You can also request a replacement EBT card at the same time.
Is my case number the same as my EBT card number?
No. Your case number and your EBT card number are different. The case number identifies your food stamps account. The EBT card number is the number on the card itself, used to process transactions. Both appear on your card, but in different places.
Can I look up my case number without calling or logging in online?
Yes. Check your EBT card, your approval letter, or any monthly benefit statement you have received. The case number is printed on all of these documents. If none of these are available, calling your state office is the fastest way to get it.
What should I do if the case number on my card does not match my approval letter?
Call your state office to clarify which number is correct. This sometimes happens if your account was transferred or if you received a replacement card. The staff can confirm your active case number and explain any discrepancy.