Massachusetts EBT Card: How To Use Your SNAP Benefits

Your Massachusetts Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT card) will come in handy at stores statewide and even online.

Once you’ve gone through the application process for SNAP and been approved, your EBT card will arrive in the mail. You may also have the option to pick up your card at a local DTA office. Here’s how to begin using your benefits:

Set Up a Card Pin & Check Balance

Now that your card has arrived and you have been approved for the program, the next step is to set up a PIN for the card. There are rare occasions where your EBT card may arrive before your case is approved. You can still PIN the card, but there may not be an available balance yet.

Benefits are electronically transferred onto the card once your case is approved, but when the card arrives, you will need to set up a 4-digit pin number by calling the EBT Customer Service Line (located on the back of your card) at 1-800-997-2555. Make sure to select a pin number that you will be able to remember.

Please note: It is also possible that you may be categorically eligible for $0, meaning that when your income and expense information was calculated, the amount of SNAP benefits you qualified for was $0. However, you are still considered a SNAP recipient and can receive any associated benefits, such as utility discounts. For questions or concerns around a $0 balance, contact the DTA Assistance Line at 1.877.382.2363.