Start with your EBT balance, since a low or zero balance can look like a pause. Then check your state's online account and any notices you received. Federal rules require advance written notice before a reduction or stop. If you cannot find a reason, call your SNAP office, and use 211 or a food bank for help right now.
What happened
Your SNAP benefits look paused or stopped. You may not know why. This can happen for many reasons specific to your own case, like a missed recertification, an unreported change, or a paperwork issue. The checks below help you find out what is going on with your own account.
What usually applies
Federal rules cover this situation. Your state must send written notice first. This applies before it cuts your benefits. The notice must come early. It must arrive at least 10 days before the change. It must explain the reason. It must state your right to a fair hearing. Maybe you never got a notice. Maybe you cannot find it. Your SNAP office can check your file. First, check your own EBT balance. Check your account status too. This can rule out a simple timing issue.
“Prior to any action to reduce or terminate a household's benefits within the certification period, the State agency shall, except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section, provide the household timely and adequate advance notice before the adverse action is taken.”
“the period includes at least 10 days from the date the notice is mailed to the date upon which the action becomes effective”
“Hunger Free America operates the National Hunger Hotline. The hotline is a resource for individuals and families seeking information on how to obtain food. The National Hunger Hotline staff connects callers with emergency food providers in their community, government assistance programs, and various social services.”
What to do
- 1
Check your EBT balance
Call the number on the back of your card or use your state's EBT app or website. A balance of zero does not always mean your case closed.
- 2
Log into your state's SNAP account
Look for your current case status, your next issuance date, and any notices already sent to you.
- 3
Look for a notice you may have missed
Federal rules require advance written notice before your benefits are reduced or stopped. Check your mail and your account inbox for one.
- 4
Call your SNAP office with your case number ready
Ask directly what your notice said and why. Write down the name of the person you spoke with and the date.
- 5
Get food help now if you need it
Call 211 for emergency food help. You can also call the USDA National Hunger Hotline. Do this while you sort out your case.
Maybe your benefits stopped. Maybe you cannot find a notice. Legal aid offices can help. SNAP outreach groups can help too. They can help you request your case file. They can help you ask for a fair hearing. If you need food today, call 211. Your local food bank can help too.
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Sources
- U.S. Government Publishing Office (govinfo.gov), Code of Federal Regulations, 7 CFR 273.13(a)Retrieved 2026-07-18
- U.S. Government Publishing Office (govinfo.gov), Code of Federal Regulations, 7 CFR 273.13(a)(1)Retrieved 2026-07-18
- USDA Food and Nutrition Administration (FNA)Retrieved 2026-07-18
Last reviewed 2026-07-18