💰 Benefits & Hearings

EBT Card

Also called: Electronic Benefits Transfer, SNAP Card, Benefits Card

What it means

A card the state issues to access SNAP (food) benefits and sometimes cash assistance. It looks and works like a regular debit card. The recipient swipes it at the checkout at most grocery stores, farmers markets, and some convenience stores. The balance reloads once a month on a set date. A lost or stolen card can be replaced by calling the number on the back or the county DSS.

When you might hear this

You hear this when you apply for SNAP or cash assistance. It is the card the state puts your benefits on. It works like a debit card at grocery stores.

What to ask

  • When does my balance reload each month?
  • Where can I use this card?
  • If my card is lost, how do I get a new one?
  • Does my cash assistance go on the same card?
Source
Administered by NY OTDA; federal EBT program — Read the law
Checked: 2026-04-16
This is for understanding only. It is not legal advice. If you are in a case, talk to a lawyer.