If your EBT card suddenly stops working at the register, online, or at an ATM, you’re not alone. Thousands of SNAP and cash assistance users experience this issue every day. The good news is that in most cases, it’s a simple problem with a quick fix — and you can usually resolve it within minutes to a few hours.
This guide explains the most common reasons your EBT card isn’t working today (updated for 2026), how to diagnose the issue, and exactly what to do next.
Quick Troubleshooting Checklist (Do These First)
- Check your balance — Is there enough money left on the card?
- Verify your PIN — Are you entering the correct 4-digit PIN?
- Confirm the card is active — Has it been blocked or expired?
- Test where it fails — Does it fail in-store, online, at ATMs, or everywhere?
- Look at the error message — What does the screen or receipt say? (e.g., “Declined,” “Insufficient funds,” “Invalid PIN,” “Card blocked”)
Now let’s go through the most frequent causes and solutions.
1. Insufficient Balance (Most Common Reason)
Why it happens: Your SNAP or cash benefits have run low or are completely used up.
How to check:
- Call your state’s EBT customer service number (on the back of your card)
- Use your state’s online portal (e.g., ConnectEBT, ebtEDGE, or state-specific site)
- Check the balance on a store receipt after any purchase
- Use the Propel app or your state’s official app (if available)
What to do:
- Wait for your next benefit deposit (most states load benefits on a fixed day each month)
- If you qualify for expedited SNAP or an emergency allotment, contact your local SNAP office immediately
2. Wrong PIN or PIN Locked
Why it happens: You entered the wrong PIN too many times (usually 3–4 attempts), or you forgot your PIN.
How to tell:
- Error message says “Invalid PIN,” “PIN blocked,” or “Transaction declined – security”
What to do:
- Reset your PIN by calling the customer service number on the back of your card
- Have your card number, ZIP code, and personal information ready for verification
- Choose a new 4-digit PIN (avoid common ones like 1234, 0000, or your birth year)
- PIN reset is instant in most states — try again immediately
Tip: Never write your PIN on the card or share it. Cover the keypad when entering it.
3. Card Blocked or Frozen (Security Hold)
Why it happens:
- Multiple declined transactions flagged fraud
- Card reported lost/stolen
- State placed a hold due to suspected misuse
- Card expired (EBT cards usually expire every 3–5 years)
How to tell:
- Error message says “Card blocked,” “Card not active,” “Transaction declined – contact issuer”
What to do:
- Call the customer service number on the back of your card immediately
- Ask the representative to check the status and remove any security hold
- If the card is expired or damaged, request a replacement (usually mailed in 5–10 business days)
- In some states (e.g., Pennsylvania, California), you can temporarily lock/unlock your card in the app or online portal
4. System Outage or Technical Issues
Why it happens:
- State EBT system maintenance or outage
- National network problem (e.g., Quest network downtime)
- Retailer-specific POS system issue
How to tell:
- Card works at one store but not another
- Multiple people report the same issue on social media or local news
- Error message says “System unavailable” or “Network error”
What to do:
- Wait 30–60 minutes and try again
- Check your state’s EBT website or social media for outage announcements
- Call the customer service number to confirm if there’s a known issue
- Try a different store or ATM
5. Card Not Activated or Expired
Why it happens:
- New card not activated
- Card reached expiration date (printed on front)
What to do:
- New card: Call the number on the back to activate (usually instant)
- Expired card: Request a replacement immediately — benefits transfer to the new card
6. Retailer or Transaction Type Issue
Common problems:
- Store does not accept EBT (look for the Quest or EBT sign)
- Buying non-eligible items (hot food, alcohol, non-food items)
- Online purchase on a site that doesn’t accept EBT
- Trying to use SNAP for delivery fees or tips
What to do:
- Confirm the store displays the EBT logo
- Make sure the items are SNAP-eligible (food for home preparation)
- For online orders, use Amazon, Walmart, or other approved retailers
Quick Reference: State EBT Customer Service Numbers
Call the number on the back of your card first. If it’s not working, here are the main lines:
- Alabama: 1-800-997-8888
- California: 1-877-328-9677
- Florida: 1-888-356-3281
- New York: 1-888-328-6399
- Texas: 1-800-777-7328
Find your state’s number: USDA SNAP State Directory
What to Do If Nothing Works
- Call your state’s EBT customer service immediately
- If the card is lost/stolen/blocked, request a replacement
- Visit your local SNAP office or apply for expedited benefits if needed
- Use cash assistance or food pantry resources as a temporary bridge
- Report suspected fraud or skimming to your state hotline
For eligibility or application help, visit snapeligibilitycalculator.com or call your state SNAP office.
Your EBT card is a lifeline — most issues are resolved quickly once you call the right number.