Where to find your case number

Your food stamp case number appears on official documents your state sends you. The easiest place to look is your approval letter — the document you received when your case was first opened. It's usually printed near the top of the page, often labeled "Case Number," "Client ID," or "Case ID." If you still have that letter, you have your number.

Your case number also appears on your EBT card statement or the back of your EBT card itself, depending on your state. Check any mail from your state's food stamp office, including recertification notices, benefit statements, or letters about changes to your case. The number is typically a combination of digits and sometimes letters, and it's unique to you in your state's system.

Key Takeaways

  • Your case number is printed on your approval letter, EBT card statement, or any official mail from your state food stamp office.
  • If you cannot find paper documents, you can call your state's food stamp office or log into your online account to retrieve it.
  • Your case number is specific to your state and is different from your EBT card number.
  • You will need your case number to report changes, check your balance, or speak with a caseworker about your account.

Calling your state food stamp office

If you don't have your approval letter or EBT statement, call your state's food stamp office directly. The phone number is on any mail you've received from them, or you can search online for "[your state] SNAP office phone number" or "[your state] food stamp office." When you call, have your Social Security number and date of birth ready — the office will use these to look up your case.

Wait times can be long, especially early in the month. If you reach an automated system, look for an option to speak with a representative or to hear your case number read aloud. Some states offer callback options so you don't have to hold the entire time.

Using your state's online portal

Most states have an online account system where you can log in and see your case information, including your case number. The portal is usually called something like "[State Name] SNAP Online" or "[State Name] Benefits Portal." To set up an account, you'll need your Social Security number, date of birth, and an email address.

If you've already created an online account, log in and look for a section labeled "Case Information," "My Account," or "Account Details." Your case number should be displayed prominently. If you haven't set up an account yet, the registration process typically takes 10 to 15 minutes and gives you access to your case number immediately.

What your case number is used for

Your case number is the identifier your state uses to track your food stamp account. You'll need it when you call the food stamp office to report a change in income or household size, when you recertify your case, or when you speak with a caseworker about your benefits. It's also useful if you need to dispute a decision about your case or follow up on a previous call.

Your case number is different from your EBT card number. The card number is what you use to make purchases at the store. If you lose your card or it's stolen, you report it using your case number so the office can issue a replacement.

If you've moved or changed your address

If you've moved to a different state, your case number from your old state will not work in your new state. You'll need to open a new case in your new state, and you'll receive a new case number. Contact your new state's food stamp office to start the process.

If you've moved within the same state, your case number stays the same. Update your address with the food stamp office so mail reaches you. You can usually do this online, by phone, or by mail.

Keeping your case number safe

Treat your case number like you would your Social Security number. Don't share it with people you don't trust, and be cautious if someone calls claiming to be from the food stamp office and asks for it. Legitimate caseworkers already have your case number in their system and won't need you to provide it to verify your identity — they'll ask for your Social Security number or date of birth instead.

Write your case number down and keep it in a safe place, or save it in your phone's notes. Having it readily available makes it faster to handle any business with the food stamp office.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Your case number identifies your food stamp account with the state. Your EBT card number is printed on the card itself and is what you use to buy food. They are separate numbers.

What if I can't remember my password for the online portal?

Most online portals have a "Forgot Password" link on the login page. Click it and follow the steps to reset your password using your email address. You should be able to access your case number within a few minutes.

Can I get my case number if someone else in my household receives the benefits?

If you're listed on the case, you can request the case number. If you're not on the case, the person whose name is on it will need to provide it or contact the office on your behalf. The food stamp office won't release case information to people not listed on the account.

Do I need my case number to check my EBT balance?

No. To check your balance, you can call the customer service number on the back of your EBT card or use your state's online portal if you have an account set up. You don't need your case number for this.