How to activate your new EBT card

Whether you’re a first time EBT user or you just got a replacement EBT card in the mail, setting up your new EBT card is simple and can be done two different ways: By phone or online.

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Activating your new EBT card by phone#activating-your-new-ebt-card-by-phone

If you prefer to set up your new EBT card over the phone, all you have to do is call your State EBT number.

When you call to activate your new card, you’ll hear automated prompts. Select the correct option for the card activation menu. Then, enter your card number when prompted and create a new PIN.

Make sure to choose a PIN that’s hard to guess (not something like 1234) and change your EBT card PIN every month before your new deposit arrives.

Activating your new EBT card online#activating-your-new-ebt-card-online

Setting up your new EBT card online is also easy, just head to your state EBT online portal. Once you’re in your state’s EBT portal, you can create or log in to an existing account and manage your EBT card

What to do after activating your EBT card#what-to-do-after-activating-your-ebt-card

Activating a new EBT card is easy, but it’s important to manage your benefits and take steps to keep your card safe from EBT theft.

An app like Propel can help you track your deposits, check your EBT balance, and secure your benefits with safety features like blocking out-of-state transactions and monitoring for suspicious activity.

How to use your EBT card#how-to-use-your-ebt-card

Once you activate your new EBT card, you can use it to purchase SNAP-eligible items at any participating stores in-person or online.

An EBT card works like a debit card. Each month, money is deposited to an account linked to your EBT card. You can use the money on that card to buy EBT-eligible items.

Your card will automatically decline purchases for any items that aren’t eligible to buy with your benefits.

To use your EBT card:

1. Find a store that accepts EBT near you. You can use the USDA’s SNAP Retail Locator for SNAP, or search for stores that take EBT online
2. Add EBT-eligible items to your cart. If you receive SNAP benefits, you can only purchase approved foods with your EBT card
3. At checkout, select how much of your total you want to use EBT for
4. Swipe your card, or if online, enter your EBT card number, and enter your PIN once prompted

The system will process your payment like a regular debit card. If the transaction is approved, you will see a remaining balance for any non-EBT eligible items in your cart.