Where to find your case number

Your case number is printed on your approval letter from your state's food assistance program — the letter you received when your food stamps were first approved. It is also on your EBT card (the debit card you use to buy food), printed on the front or back depending on your state. If you have either of these in front of you, your case number is there.

If you cannot locate the letter or card, call your state's food assistance hotline or visit your local SNAP office in person. They will look up your case number using your name and Social Security number. Most states have a phone line listed on their SNAP website; some allow you to look it up online through your account portal if you have registered one.

Key Takeaways

  • Your case number appears on your approval letter and on the front or back of your EBT card.
  • If you cannot find either document, call your state's SNAP hotline with your name and Social Security number ready.
  • Many states let you log into an online account portal to view your case number and account details.
  • You will need your case number to report changes, check your balance, or speak with a caseworker about your account.

How to look it up online

Most states operate an online portal where you can log in with your name, date of birth, and Social Security number to see your case number and account information. The portal is usually called something like "SNAP Benefits Portal" or "[Your State] Food Assistance Online." Search "[your state] SNAP online account" to find the link.

If your state has a portal and you have not registered yet, you will need to create an account. This usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. Once you are logged in, your case number is displayed on your dashboard or account summary page. If you forget your login password, most portals have a "Forgot Password" option that sends a reset link to your email.

Calling your state's SNAP office

Every state has a toll-free hotline for SNAP questions. You can find the number on your approval letter, on your EBT card, or by searching "[your state] SNAP phone number." When you call, have your Social Security number and date of birth ready. The representative will pull up your account and give you your case number over the phone.

Wait times vary by state and time of day. Early morning (before 10 a.m.) and mid-week (Tuesday through Thursday) are usually less busy. Some states also offer callback options, where you enter your phone number and the system calls you back instead of making you hold.

Visiting your local SNAP office

You can walk into your county or city SNAP office and ask for your case number in person. Bring a photo ID and your Social Security number. The staff member will look it up and write it down for you on the spot. This is often the fastest route if you need the number immediately and do not want to wait on hold.

To find your local office, search "[your county] SNAP office" or "[your city] food assistance office." Most offices are open Monday through Friday during business hours, though some have extended evening hours. A few states allow you to make an appointment online to reduce wait time.

What to do if you cannot locate your case number

If you have lost your approval letter and do not have your EBT card, you still have a case number — you just need to retrieve it. The fastest route is to call your state's hotline. You do not need your case number to call; you only need your name, date of birth, and Social Security number.

If you are having trouble reaching your state's office by phone, try visiting in person or checking the state website for an online chat or email option. Some states also allow you to request a replacement approval letter, which will include your case number. There is usually no fee for this.

Why you need your case number

Your case number is how your state's SNAP program identifies your account. You will need it to report changes (like a new job, address, or household member), check your current balance, request a replacement EBT card, appeal a decision, or speak with a caseworker about your account. Having it written down in a safe place saves time when you call or visit.

If you are working with a community organization or legal aid group on a SNAP issue, they will also ask for your case number so they can contact your state office on your behalf or look up your account details.

Frequently Asked Questions

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 with the state. The EBT card number is the 16-digit number on your debit card. You need the case number for most state office business; you use the card number when you swipe at the store.

What if I moved to a different state?

Your old case number is no longer active. You will need to open a new SNAP case in your new state. Contact your new state's SNAP office to start the process. They will give you a new case number once your account is set up.

Can I look up someone else's case number?

No. SNAP case numbers are confidential. Only the person on the case, an authorized representative, or someone with legal power of attorney can look up or receive the case number. If you are helping someone with their SNAP account, they will need to call or visit the office themselves, or give you written permission to act on their behalf.

What if the online portal says my case does not exist?

This usually means your account has not been set up in the online system yet, or your login information is incorrect. Call your state's SNAP hotline to confirm your case is active. If it is, ask them to help you register for the online portal or to provide your case number directly.