Understanding if EBT Balances Carry Over

EBT balances do not carry over from month to month. This means that any unused funds on an EBT card at the end of the month do not roll over into the next month. It is important for EBT cardholders to plan their purchases carefully each month to make the most of their benefits.

Expiration Date

One important factor to consider when understanding EBT balances is the expiration date of the benefits. Each month, new benefits are loaded onto the EBT card, and any unused benefits expire at the end of the month. It is important to use up all benefits before they expire to avoid losing out on assistance.

Rolling Balance

Unlike some other types of benefits or discounts, EBT balances do not have a rolling balance feature. This means that any unused funds on the EBT card at the end of the month will not carry over into the next month. It is essential for cardholders to budget and plan their purchases accordingly.

Monthly Budgeting

  • Cardholders should create a monthly budget to plan out their purchases each month.
  • By keeping track of their spending, cardholders can ensure they use up all their benefits before they expire.
  • Setting aside funds for essential items can help prevent running out of benefits too early in the month.

Eligible Purchases

It is important to note that EBT benefits can only be used to purchase certain items. Cardholders should familiarize themselves with the list of eligible items to make the most of their benefits each month. Some common eligible items include:

Eligible Items Non-Eligible Items
Groceries Alcohol
Food for household consumption Non-food items

Recertification Process

Cardholders must go through a recertification process periodically to continue receiving EBT benefits. During this process, any remaining balance on the EBT card does not carry over, and new benefits are loaded onto the card based on the family’s eligibility.

In conclusion, EBT balances do not carry over from month to month, and any unused funds expire at the end of each month. It is crucial for cardholders to plan their purchases carefully, budget effectively, and make the most of their benefits within the given time frame.