Your EBT case number is on your EBT card, your approval letter, or your state's online portal

Your EBT case number is a unique identifier your state assigns when you enroll in SNAP (food information) or TANF (cash information). You need it to check your balance, report changes to your household, or speak with customer service. The fastest way to find it is to look at the back of your EBT card—the number is printed there. If you don't have your card or it's damaged, your approval letter from your state agency has the same number. If you've thrown away the letter, your state's online portal or a phone call to your local office will retrieve it in minutes.

Your case number stays the same as long as you remain enrolled in your state's program. It does not change when you get a replacement card, and you keep it even if you move within your state. However, if you move to a different state, you will need to enroll in that state's program and receive a new case number.

Key Takeaways

  • Your EBT case number appears on the back of your physical EBT card and on the approval letter your state sent when you enrolled.
  • Each state runs its own EBT system and uses different names for the online portal—search "[your state] EBT login" to find yours.
  • Calling your state's EBT customer service line or visiting your local SNAP office in person will retrieve your case number if you cannot find it in writing.
  • Your case number stays the same unless you move to a different state or your case is closed and reopened.

Check the back of your EBT card first

The back of your EBT card displays your case number in a row of digits, usually near the bottom. The card itself is a Visa or Mastercard-branded debit card issued by your state. If the number is worn or faded, hold the card under bright light or take a photo with your phone's flash to read it more clearly.

If your card is lost, stolen, or too damaged to read, you can request a replacement from your state's EBT customer service line. Most states issue a new card within 7 to 10 business days, though some offer expedited replacement in 2 to 3 days if you report it lost or stolen. Your case number does not change when you get a new card, so the number on your replacement card will be the same as the original.

Look at your approval or renewal letter

When you first enrolled in SNAP or TANF, your state mailed you an approval letter. This letter lists your case number near the top, usually labeled "Case Number," "Client ID," or "Household Number"—the exact label varies by state. If you still have this letter, the case number is there and remains valid.

Your state also sends renewal letters every 12 months (or more often if your circumstances change). These letters also display your case number. If you've moved or thrown away old mail, check any drawer or folder where you keep important documents. The case number on any letter from your state is current and correct.

Log into your state's online EBT portal

Every state runs an online portal where you can check your balance, report changes, and view your case details. The portal name and web address differ by state. Search "[your state name] EBT login" or "[your state name] SNAP online portal" to find the correct link. Common portal names include MyBenefits, COMPASS, BEACON, and ACCESS.

Once you log in with your username and password, your case number appears on your account dashboard or in a section labeled "Account Information" or "Case Details." If you've forgotten your password, most portals have a "Forgot Password" link that will send a reset code to your email or phone. If you've never created an account, you can register using your Social Security number and other identifying information.

Call your state's EBT customer service line

Every state publishes a customer service phone number on the back of your EBT card and on the state's official website. When you call, have your Social Security number and date of birth ready. The representative will verify your identity and read your case number aloud. Most states operate their EBT lines Monday through Friday during business hours, though some offer 24/7 service.

Wait times can be long during the first week of the month when many people call to check balances. If you reach a busy signal, try calling early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Some states also offer a text-to-speech automated system where you can enter your information and hear your case number without waiting for a representative.

Visit your local SNAP office in person

Your county or city SNAP office has your case file and can print your case number for you. To find the office nearest you, search "[your county name] SNAP office" or visit your state's SNAP website, which lists all local offices with addresses and hours. Bring a photo ID and proof of your address (a utility bill or lease works).

Office hours vary widely—some are open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, while others have limited hours or require an appointment. Call ahead to confirm hours and whether you need to schedule a visit. If you go in person, you'll have your case number in hand the same day.

Understand what your case number is used for

Your case number is the key to accessing your account information. You'll need it to check your SNAP balance by phone or online, report a change in income or household size, replace a lost card, appeal a denial or reduction in benefits, or speak with a caseworker about your account. Some states also use the case number to look up your information at the grocery store if your card is declined.

Your case number is specific to you and your household. If you live with others who also receive SNAP, you each have your own case number. The number does not change if you move within your state, but if you move to a different state, you will need to enroll in that state's program and receive a new case number.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I moved to a new state—do I keep the same case number?

No. Each state runs its own SNAP program with its own case numbering system. When you move, you must enroll in your new state's program, and you will receive a new case number. Contact your new state's SNAP office to start the enrollment process. Your old case number will not work in the new state's system.

Is my case number the same as my Social Security number?

No. Your case number is a separate identifier assigned by your state. It is usually a longer string of digits than your Social Security number. You may need to provide both your case number and your Social Security number when you call customer service, depending on which information the representative asks for.

Can I find my case number if my account is closed?

If your case was closed recently, your approval letter or old EBT card still has the number. If you need to reopen your case, you can provide this old case number when you contact your state office, and they can look up your history. If your case has been closed for several years, the state may assign you a new case number when you enroll again.

What should I do if I can't find my case number anywhere?

Call your state's EBT customer service line or visit your local SNAP office. Have your Social Security number and date of birth ready. A representative can look up your case number in the system in a few minutes. This is the fastest option if you've lost all your paperwork.

Do I need my case number to use my EBT card at the store?

No. Your EBT card works at the checkout without your case number. You only need your case number to manage your account by phone or online, report changes, or speak with customer service about your benefits.