Do EBT Funds Roll Over From Month to Month?

Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) is a system that delivers public assistance benefits, primarily for food assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and sometimes for cash aid. This system functions much like a debit card, allowing recipients to access their allocated funds electronically at authorized retail locations. A common question among recipients concerns the fate of unspent funds at the end of a month or benefit period. This article clarifies how EBT funds are managed over time.

How EBT Funds Roll Over

EBT funds generally roll over from one month to the next, and even from year to year. Any unspent balance does not automatically expire or disappear from the card; instead, these remaining funds stay on the card, accumulating with new monthly benefit deposits, similar to how funds accrue in a bank account. This ensures recipients are not compelled to spend all their benefits within a strict monthly timeframe, providing flexibility for larger purchases or saving for future needs. If a recipient receives a certain amount in benefits and only spends a portion, the remainder will be available alongside the next month’s deposit, allowing for a cumulative balance useful for managing household budgets. When funds are used, the system generally operates on a “first-in, first-out” basis, meaning the oldest benefits are spent first.

Impact of Account Inactivity

While EBT funds generally roll over, there is an important exception related to account inactivity. If an EBT card remains unused for a certain period, the account can become inactive, leading to the temporary suspension or permanent removal of benefits. The specific timeframe for inactivity varies by state, but commonly ranges from 90 days to 12 months without any transactions. If inactivity continues, typically for a period of nine months to 12 months, the unspent benefits may be “expunged,” meaning they are permanently removed from the account and returned to the state. States are usually required to notify cardholders before benefits are expunged, often providing a notice 10 to 30 days in advance.

Accessing Your EBT Balance

Regularly checking an EBT balance is a practical step for cardholders to monitor their funds and avoid issues related to account inactivity. Many states offer online portals, such as ebtEDGE.com or connectEBT.com, where users can register their card and view their current balance and transaction history. Another common method is to call the toll-free customer service number located on the back of the EBT card; this automated service is typically available 24/7 and provides balance information after entering the card number and PIN. Additionally, after making a purchase at an authorized retailer, the remaining balance is often printed on the receipt. Some states also provide mobile applications that allow for real-time balance checks and transaction tracking.

Addressing Inactive Accounts and State Rules

If an EBT account becomes inactive or benefits are suspended or removed, the first course of action for a cardholder is to contact their local benefits agency or the EBT customer service hotline. These entities can provide specific details about the account’s status and guide the cardholder through the necessary steps. In some cases, benefits may be reinstated, though the process can involve providing updated information or making a new transaction to reactivate the card. It is important to recognize that the precise rules, timeframes for inactivity, and procedures for benefit reinstatement can vary significantly depending on the state. Therefore, cardholders should consult their state or local EBT agency for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding their specific situation and available options.