Your case number is on your approval letter or benefit card

Your SNAP case number is a unique identifier your state assigns when your process is processed. You will find it printed on your approval letter (the document you received when SNAP benefits started) and on the front or back of your EBT card — the plastic card you use to buy food.

If you have either of those documents in front of you right now, your case number is there. It is usually a string of numbers, sometimes with letters, and typically appears near your name. The format and length vary by state — some are six digits, others are longer.

If you cannot locate your approval letter or your EBT card, you can retrieve your case number through your state's SNAP office or online portal without having to reapply or start over.

Key Takeaways

  • Your case number appears on your SNAP approval letter and on your EBT card itself.
  • You can call your state's SNAP hotline or visit your local SNAP office to ask for your case number by name and date of birth.
  • Many states have online portals where you can log in and view your case number, account balance, and transaction history.
  • Your case number stays the same as long as your SNAP benefits remain active, even if you move or update your information.

Call your state SNAP office directly

The fastest way to get your case number if you do not have your approval letter is to call your state's SNAP hotline. Each state runs its own program under different names — it may be called SNAP, TANF, CalFresh, PEBT, or another acronym depending on where you live.

When you call, have your Social Security number and date of birth ready. The representative will look up your case in the system and read your case number to you over the phone. They can also tell you your current balance and answer questions about your account.

To find your state's SNAP phone number, visit fns.usda.gov and select your state, or search "[your state name] SNAP phone number" online. The number is usually on your state's Department of Human Services or Department of Social Services website.

Check your state's online portal or app

Most states now offer an online account portal where you can log in and see your case number, current balance, transaction history, and renewal dates. Some states also have mobile apps you can read to your phone.

To access the portal, go to your state's SNAP website and look for a link that says "Check Your Balance," "My Account," "View Benefits," or "Login." You will typically need your case number or Social Security number and a password to sign in — if you do not have a password, you can create one or reset an existing one.

Once you are logged in, your case number is usually displayed at the top of the page or in an account summary section. This method also lets you see your EBT card balance in real time, which is useful if you are shopping and want to know how much you have left to spend.

Visit your local SNAP office in person

If you prefer to speak with someone face-to-face, you can walk into your local SNAP office and ask for your case number. Bring a photo ID and be prepared to provide your name and date of birth.

To find your local office, search "[your city or county name] SNAP office" or call the state hotline and ask for the address nearest you. Office hours vary, but most are open weekdays during business hours. Some offices require an appointment, so calling ahead is a good idea.

The staff can print out a copy of your case number and other account information for you to take home, which is helpful if you need to reference it later.

What to do if your case number is not on your EBT card

Older EBT cards sometimes do not print the case number on the card itself, even though the number exists in the system. If your card does not show it, the number is still active — you just need to retrieve it through one of the methods above.

If you have a very old approval letter and cannot read the case number clearly, call your state office and they will confirm it for you. Do not guess or try to reconstruct it; the representative can look it up by your name and Social Security number in seconds.

Why you might need your case number

Your case number is required when you call your state SNAP office with questions, report a change in your household (like a move or job loss), or appeal a decision about your benefits. It is also useful to have written down if you need to contact SNAP about a lost or stolen EBT card, a transaction you do not recognize, or a renewal notice.

Some states also ask for your case number when you report changes online through their portal, though many will accept your Social Security number instead. Having it handy saves time during phone calls.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my Social Security number instead of my case number?

Yes. Most SNAP offices will look up your account using your Social Security number and date of birth if you do not have your case number. However, having your case number ready makes the call faster, especially if someone else is calling on your behalf.

What if I moved to a different state?

Your SNAP case number is specific to the state that issued it and does not transfer. When you move, you will need to reapply in your new state, and you will receive a new case number. Contact your new state's SNAP office to start that process.

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

No. Your case number and your EBT card number are different. The case number identifies your SNAP account and household; the card number is tied to the physical card itself. If you get a replacement card, the card number changes but your case number stays the same.

What if I lost my approval letter and cannot reach my state office?

Try the online portal first — you can often log in with just your Social Security number and retrieve your case number without calling. If the portal is down or you cannot access it, try calling during different hours or visiting the office in person. Your case number is in the system and can be retrieved any time.

Do I need my case number to use my EBT card at the store?

No. You only need your EBT card and PIN to make purchases. Your case number is for contacting SNAP about your account, not for everyday shopping.