New Jersey EBT Card: A Simple Guide to How It Works

If you’re new to benefits in New Jersey or just trying to understand how your EBT card works, it can feel confusing at first. This guide walks through the basics of the New Jersey EBT card—what it is, who usually gets one, how to use it, and what to do if something goes wrong.

HowToGetAssistance.org is an independent information site. It is not a government agency, not an application portal, and not an official source of benefits. This guide is meant to help you understand the process so you can take your next steps through official New Jersey offices and websites.

What Is a New Jersey EBT Card?

An EBT card (Electronic Benefits Transfer) is a plastic card that looks and works like a debit card. In New Jersey, it’s typically used to access:

• SNAP (food stamps) – for buying approved food items
• Cash assistance benefits – such as Work First New Jersey (WFNJ) or General Assistance (GA), when you qualify

Each month, if you are approved for benefits, your benefits are loaded onto your EBT card. You then use the card at:

• Grocery stores and supermarkets that accept EBT
• Some farmers’ markets
• ATMs and certain stores (for cash benefits only, not SNAP)

You do not get cash directly from HowToGetAssistance.org. All benefits are handled through official state agencies and their systems.

Who Typically Receives a New Jersey EBT Card?

You may receive a New Jersey EBT card if you are approved for certain state-administered benefit programs, most commonly:

• SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)
• WFNJ/TANF (Work First New Jersey/Temporary Assistance for Needy Families)
• WFNJ/GA (Work First New Jersey/General Assistance)

General clues you may be eligible

Eligibility is always decided by your county or state benefits office based on your situation, but in general, people who receive an EBT card:

• Have low or limited income
• Have few resources or savings (rules can differ for different programs)
• Live in New Jersey
• Are a U.S. citizen or qualified non‑citizen, depending on the program and household members
• Meet specific work, family, or disability rules, depending on the benefit

Because rules can change, the best way to know if you may qualify is to contact:

• Your county Board of Social Services, or
• The New Jersey Department of Human Services through their official phone lines or website

They can review your situation and tell you which programs to apply for.

What Can You Buy With a New Jersey EBT Card?

SNAP food benefits (on the EBT card)

SNAP benefits on your EBT card can usually be used to buy:

• Fruits and vegetables
• Meat, poultry, and fish
• Bread, cereal, and grains
• Dairy products like milk, cheese, yogurt
• Snack foods and non-alcoholic drinks
• Seeds and plants that produce food for your household

You normally cannot use SNAP to buy:

• Alcohol or tobacco
• Vitamins, medicines, or supplements
• Hot, prepared meals ready to eat (with limited exceptions in special programs)
• Non-food items like cleaning supplies, pet food, or toiletries

Cash benefits (on the EBT card)

If you receive cash assistance, that money may also go onto your EBT card, but it is separate from SNAP funds. Cash benefits can often be used for:

• Cash withdrawals at ATMs (fees may apply depending on the ATM)
• Purchases at stores that accept EBT cash

Cash benefits are more flexible but still subject to program rules and restrictions. For example, using cash benefits for gambling, alcohol, or adult entertainment is often prohibited and can affect your case.

EBT vs. Other Cards in New Jersey

Here is a simple comparison to help you understand where the New Jersey EBT card fits among common benefit cards:

Only the official New Jersey benefits offices can issue a New Jersey EBT card connected to public assistance programs.

How to Apply for Benefits That Use the New Jersey EBT Card

You do not apply for the EBT card itself. Instead, you apply for a benefit program (like SNAP or WFNJ). If you are approved, an EBT card is created for you.

The exact steps can vary some by county, but the process usually looks like this:

1. Find the correct official office or portal

In New Jersey, applications are typically handled by:

• Your county Board of Social Services, and/or
• The official New Jersey benefits website or portal
• Official phone lines for SNAP or cash assistance

You can usually find the right contact by searching for:
“New Jersey SNAP apply,” “New Jersey WFNJ apply,” or “[Your County] Board of Social Services” on your browser, then confirming you are on an official .gov or clearly identified state/county site or phone line.

2. Gather common documents

Requirements can differ by program, but people are often asked for:

• Proof of identity
  • Driver’s license, state ID, passport, or other government photo ID
• Proof of residency in New Jersey
  • Lease, utility bill, official mail sent to your address
• Social Security numbers (or proof you have applied), if applicable
• Proof of income
  • Paystubs, employer letter, unemployment statements, benefit award letters
• Proof of expenses (for SNAP and cash assistance)
  • Rent or mortgage statement
  • Utility bills (electric, gas, water, phone)
  • Childcare expenses
  • Medical expenses for certain household members
• Immigration documents, if you are not a U.S. citizen and are applying under eligible status
• Birth certificates or similar documents for children in the household, if requested

Having these ready can reduce delays in your application.

3. Submit an application

Depending on your situation and location, you may be able to apply:

• Online through the official New Jersey benefits portal
• In person at your county Board of Social Services
• By mail or fax, using forms from the county or state website
• In some cases, by phone, if your county allows it

Again, HowToGetAssistance.org does not collect applications. You must use an official state or county channel.

4. Complete an interview

Most SNAP and cash assistance applications in New Jersey require an interview. This may be:

• By phone, or
• In person at a local office

During the interview, a worker may:

• Review your application
• Ask about your income, expenses, and household
• Request extra documents if something is missing or unclear

Missing the interview is a common reason applications are delayed or denied, so it’s important to:

• Answer calls from unknown numbers if you are expecting an interview, and
• Call your county office back promptly if you miss a call or letter

5. Wait for a decision

After the interview and once your documents are reviewed, the agency will make a decision. Typical steps:

• You receive a notice by mail, and sometimes also electronically, saying:
  • Whether you were approved or denied, and
  • The amount and duration of benefits if approved
• If approved, an EBT card is usually:
  • Mailed to your address, or
  • Given to you at the office in some situations (varies by county)

The notice will include information on how to appeal if you disagree with the decision.

Activating and Using Your New Jersey EBT Card

Once you receive your New Jersey EBT card:

1. Activate the card

Follow the instructions that come with the card. Activation usually involves:

• Calling the EBT customer service number on the back of the card
• Entering the card number
• Setting your 4‑digit PIN (Personal Identification Number)

Keep your PIN private. Do not share it, even with friends or family.

2. Check your balance

You can typically check your EBT balance by:

• Calling the toll-free EBT customer service number
• Using an EBT balance phone system (automated)
• Looking at your receipt after making a purchase
• On some official EBT or state benefits tools or apps, if available

3. Use your card at stores

At stores that accept EBT:

1. Shop as usual and go to the checkout
2. Swipe or insert your EBT card
3. Choose EBT (for food/SNAP) or cash (if you have cash benefits)
4. Enter your PIN
5. The system deducts the balance and prints a receipt showing your remaining amount

For cash benefits, you may also:

• Withdraw cash from ATMs that accept EBT
• Make cash-back purchases at some stores, depending on store rules

Common Problems and How to Handle Them

Card lost, stolen, or damaged

If your New Jersey EBT card is:

• Lost
• Stolen
• Damaged
• Not working properly

Call the EBT customer service number on the back of the card (or look it up through official New Jersey benefits information). Ask to:

• Report the card as lost or stolen
• Deactivate the old card
• Request a replacement card

Act quickly—if someone uses your card and knows your PIN, benefits can be spent and may not be replaced.

PIN forgotten or compromised

If you forget your PIN or think someone else knows it:

• Call the EBT customer service line
• Follow the steps to reset your PIN
• Do not reuse a PIN someone else might guess

No benefits loaded / wrong amount

If you believe:

• No benefits were deposited when they should have been, or
• The amount looks incorrect

Contact your:

• County Board of Social Services, or
• State SNAP or cash assistance hotline

Have ready:

• Your name,
• Case number, if you know it, and
• Details on what’s missing or incorrect

They can review your case and explain the decision or correct errors if needed.

Why Applications Get Delayed or Denied

People often face delays or denials for reasons like:

• Missing documents – proof of income, identity, or residency not submitted
• Unreachable for interview – missed phone calls, wrong phone number, or missed mail
• Incomplete application – skipped questions or unclear answers
• Income too high or not meeting other program rules
• Not responding on time to letters asking for more information

To reduce problems:

• Keep your contact information current with your county office
• Open and read all mail from the benefits office right away
• Respond before any deadlines listed in letters
• Keep copies of everything you submit

Appeals and Fair Hearings in New Jersey

If you disagree with a decision about your benefits—such as:

• Your application being denied,
• Your benefit amount being lower than you expected, or
• Your benefits being reduced or stopped—

you usually have the right to request an appeal or fair hearing.

Typical steps (details can vary):

1. Read your notice carefully

   • It normally explains why the decision was made
   • It usually includes a deadline for requesting an appeal and instructions on how to do it

2. Submit your appeal request in writing

   • Many people send a letter or form to the address provided in the notice
   • Some offices also accept appeals in person or by fax

3. Prepare for the hearing

   • Gather relevant documents, letters, and receipts
   • Be ready to explain why you think the decision is wrong
   • You can ask about legal aid organizations or advocates that may help at low or no cost

During the hearing, an independent reviewer or hearing officer looks at your case and issues a decision. Follow the instructions in your official paperwork to make sure you meet all deadlines.

What if You Don’t Qualify for a New Jersey EBT Card?

If you are denied SNAP or cash assistance, you may still have other options for help:

• Food pantries and food banks
  • Local charities, faith-based groups, and community organizations often provide free groceries and meals
• Community action agencies
  • Some help with utility bills, rent, or emergency needs in certain situations
• 211 phone service
  • By dialing 211, many people can reach a local helpline that connects them with shelter, food, and assistance resources
• School meal programs
  • Children may qualify for free or reduced-price school meals through their school district
• WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)
  • Pregnant people, new parents, and children under 5 may qualify for nutrition support and specific foods

These programs are usually run by nonprofit groups, schools, and local agencies, not by HowToGetAssistance.org. Contact each program directly to ask about eligibility and how to apply.

Staying Safe: Spotting EBT Scams and Fake Sites

Unfortunately, some scammers try to take advantage of people who use EBT cards. To protect yourself:

Tips to avoid scams

• Never share your PIN with anyone, including people who say they are from “the government” or “the benefits office”
• Do not give card numbers or PINs over text, email, or social media
• Be cautious with websites that ask for your full EBT information but are not clearly official state portals
• Avoid anyone who promises faster approval for a fee or asks you to pay to apply for SNAP or cash assistance

How to verify you’re on an official channel

• Check for “.gov” in the website address when you are on a state or federal site
• If in doubt, call your county Board of Social Services using a phone number you find through:
  • The official state site,
  • A local government directory, or
  • Another trusted source such as 211

If you think your benefits have been stolen or your card information has been exposed:

1. Call the EBT customer service number immediately to report the problem and request a new card
2. Contact your county benefits office to report suspected fraud
3. Follow their instructions on what to do next

Understanding how the New Jersey EBT card works can help you use your benefits confidently and spot problems early. When you’re ready to move forward, your county Board of Social Services, the New Jersey Department of Human Services, and the official state benefits portal are the places to turn for applications, case questions, and official decisions.