Where to find your case number

Your case number is printed on your approval letter, your benefits card, or any official mail from your state's food assistance program. If you have received benefits before, check any documents you kept from that time — the number stays the same unless your case closes and reopens.

If you cannot find a physical document, you can call your state's food assistance hotline or visit your local office in person. Have your name, date of birth, and address ready. The staff member will look up your case and give you the number over the phone or print it for you on the spot.

Many states also let you log into an online account portal to see your case number, recent transactions, and benefit balance. You typically create this account using your Social Security number or case number (if you already have one), so this works best if you are looking for a number you once had.

Key Takeaways

  • Your case number appears on your approval letter, benefits card, or any official notice from your state food assistance program.
  • Calling your state's food assistance hotline with your name and date of birth is the fastest way to get the number if you do not have documents.
  • Many states offer online portals where you can log in and view your case number and benefit balance without calling.
  • Your case number remains the same throughout your time receiving benefits unless your case closes completely.

What your case number is used for

You need your case number to check your balance, report changes in income or household size, request a replacement benefits card, or appeal a decision about your benefits. When you call your state office or visit in person, having the number ready speeds up the process because the worker can pull up your file immediately.

If you are reapplying after your benefits ended, you may receive a new case number. Keep track of both the old and new numbers if this happens, since some states require the old number to verify your history.

How to contact your state office

Each state runs its own food assistance program under different names — SNAP in most states, CalFresh in California, PEACH in Georgia, and so on. Your state's website lists the phone number and office locations for your county or region.

To find the right number, search "[your state name] food assistance phone number" or visit your state's SNAP or food benefits website directly. When you call, have your name, date of birth, and address ready. Wait times are often shorter early in the morning or mid-week.

If you prefer to visit in person, your local office can print your case number and answer questions about your specific situation. Bring a photo ID and proof of address if you have it, though staff can often look you up by name and date of birth alone.

Online portals and account access

Most states offer a self-service portal where you can view your case number, check your current balance, see transaction history, and report changes without calling. You usually log in with your Social Security number, date of birth, and a password you create.

If you have never set up an online account, the state website will have a link to register. Some states call this a "client portal," "benefits portal," or "my benefits account." Once you are logged in, your case number is displayed on the main page or in your account settings.

If you have lost your benefits card

Your case number is separate from your benefits card number. If your card is lost or stolen, you can request a replacement by phone or online using your case number. The replacement card arrives in the mail within one to two weeks, and your benefits continue to load on the new card automatically.

While you wait for the replacement, you can still use your benefits at the store by providing your case number and date of birth to the cashier, though this is slower than swiping the card. Some states also let you check your balance by phone using your case number.

Keeping your case number safe

Treat your case number like you would a Social Security number — do not share it with people you do not trust. Scammers sometimes call claiming to be from the food assistance program and ask for your case number to "verify" your account. Your state office will never call you asking for this information.

If someone calls claiming to be from the program, hang up and call the official number on your approval letter or the state website. If you think someone has misused your case number, contact your local office right away.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I do not remember my case number and cannot find my approval letter?

Call your state's food assistance hotline with your name, date of birth, and address. The worker will look up your case and provide the number. If you do not know the phone number, search your state's name plus "SNAP" or "food assistance" on the state government website.

Can I use my benefits card number instead of my case number?

No. Your benefits card number and case number are different. Some transactions require your case number specifically. If you only have your card number, call your state office and they will give you the case number.

Does my case number change if I move to a different state?

Yes. Each state runs its own program, so you receive a new case number when you move. You will need to reapply in your new state. Contact your new state's food assistance office to start the process.

What should I do if the online portal says my case number is invalid?

Call your state office to confirm your case is still active. Your case may have closed if benefits ended or if you did not recertify. The worker can tell you the status and help you restart if needed.