An easy, safe way to receive SNAP and Cash Assistance

SNAP and cash assistance benefits are issued electronically to residents of New York State. The Department of Social Services authorizes benefits to eligible households, which are provided through Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT). This works just like an ATM debit card.

SNAP and Cash Assistance benefits are electronically available through a debit, or spend-down, system. SNAP benefits are available on the EBT over the first nine days of every month, depending on your case number. The check-out process at a grocery store counter looks just like any other ATM card transaction. The cost of the groceries will be deducted directly from the person’s electronic account. Cash is issued via the debit card at participating businesses or ATM’s. Cash and SNAP are available to qualified households anywhere the QUEST logo is displayed.

EBT offers numerous advantages to customers, to stores who accept SNAP, and to the SNAP program itself.

• Since people can withdraw the funds in small amounts as needed, SNAP and cash assistance are secure from theft or loss.
• Privacy is protected because grocery purchases are not readily noticed as SNAP transactions by other customers.
• SNAP is here to reduce hunger while enhancing nutrition and health.

Toll-Free Telephone Numbers for Help with EBT

Customer Service: 1 (888) 328-6399 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week)
Call customer service to report a lost or stolen EBT card, change your PIN, check how much cash or SNAP you have available, report any problems in receiving your cash or SNAP, ask general questions.

Locator Service: 1 (800) 289-6739 (Monday - Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM)
Call the locator service to find participating stores and ATM’s that do not charge extra to access your cash benefits.

You can also check your EBT balance through connectebt.com/nyebtclient/ or an app available through the Apple app store or Google Play store.