Where to find your SNAP case number

Your SNAP case number is a unique identifier assigned to your household when you first receive SNAP benefits. It appears on your EBT card, in your account online, and on any official letters from your state's SNAP program. The fastest way to find it is to look at your physical EBT card — the number is printed on the front.

If you don't have your card handy or it's been lost, your case number is also in your online account. Log into your state's SNAP portal (the website varies by state — for example, it's called MYBENEFITS in New York, COMPASS in North Carolina, and BEACON in Massachusetts) using your username and password. Your case number will appear on your dashboard or account summary page.

You can also find your case number on any official mail from your state's SNAP office. Look at the top or bottom of letters about your benefits, recertification, or account changes. The number is usually labeled "Case Number," "Case ID," or "Household Number."

Key Takeaways

  • Your SNAP case number is printed on the front of your EBT card and is the quickest place to look.
  • You can log into your state's online SNAP portal to view your case number on your account dashboard.
  • Any official letter from your state's SNAP office will display your case number near the top or bottom of the page.
  • If you've lost your card and can't access your online account, call your state's SNAP customer service line to retrieve it by phone.
  • Your case number stays the same throughout your time receiving SNAP, even if your benefits change or you move to a different address.

Logging into your state's online SNAP account

Each state runs its own SNAP portal, so the website you use depends on where you live. Search online for "[your state name] SNAP portal" or "[your state name] EBT account login" to find the correct site. Common portal names include MYBENEFITS, COMPASS, BEACON, and ACCESS HER.

Once you're on your state's portal, enter your username and password. If you haven't created an account yet, you can usually set one up on the same page using your Social Security number and other identifying information. After you log in, look for a section labeled "Account Summary," "My Benefits," "Case Information," or "Dashboard" — your case number will be displayed there.

If you've forgotten your password, most portals have a "Forgot Password" link that will walk you through resetting it. You'll typically need to verify your identity by answering security questions or confirming information from your SNAP file.

Calling your state's SNAP office by phone

If you can't find your case number online or on your card, you can call your state's SNAP customer service line. The phone number is on the back of your EBT card, or you can search online for "[your state name] SNAP customer service phone number."

When you call, have your Social Security number and date of birth ready. The representative will verify your identity and provide your case number over the phone. Wait times vary by state and time of day, but calling early in the morning on a weekday usually means a shorter hold.

Some states also offer text or chat support through their SNAP portal. Check your state's website to see if this option is available — it can be faster than calling during busy hours.

What your case number is used for

Your SNAP case number is required when you contact your state's SNAP office about your account, report a change in your household, or ask questions about your benefits. It's also used when you recertify your benefits or appeal a decision about your account.

You may also need your case number when working with community organizations that help with SNAP, such as food banks or local nonprofits. Having it ready before you call or visit saves time and helps staff locate your information quickly.

If your case number has changed

Your case number should remain the same for as long as you receive SNAP benefits, even if you move, change your address, or update your household information. However, if you've had a break in benefits — meaning your case was closed and then reopened — you may have been assigned a new case number.

If you think your case number has changed, log into your online account or call your state's SNAP office to confirm. They can tell you whether you have an active case and what your current case number is.

Keeping your case number safe

Treat your SNAP case number like you would your Social Security number. Don't share it with people you don't trust, and be cautious about giving it out over the phone unless you initiated the call to your state's SNAP office.

Scammers sometimes call or text claiming to be from SNAP and ask for your case number or other personal information. Your state's SNAP office will never ask for sensitive information through unsolicited calls or texts. If someone contacts you claiming to be from SNAP, hang up and call the number on the back of your EBT card to verify.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I lost my EBT card and don't remember my case number?

Log into your state's online SNAP portal using your username and password — your case number will be on your account dashboard. If you don't have online access, call your state's SNAP customer service line with your Social Security number and date of birth, and they'll provide it.

Is my case number the same as my EBT card number?

No. Your case number and your EBT card number are different. Your case number identifies your household's SNAP account, while your EBT card number is specific to that card. If you get a replacement card, the card number changes but your case number stays the same.

Can I use my case number to check my SNAP balance?

Your case number alone won't show your balance, but you can use it along with your PIN to check your balance through your state's online portal, by calling the customer service number on the back of your EBT card, or by checking at an ATM or store register.

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

Call your state's SNAP office directly. Have your Social Security number, date of birth, and current address ready. The representative will look up your account and provide your case number. This is the most reliable way if you've exhausted other options.