EBT Cards
SNAP Benefit Schedule
SNAP benefits are deposited on a date based on the last 2 digits of the Social Security Number used during application. To view the SNAP Benefit Schedule, click here.
Preventing, Reporting and Stopping EBT Theft Fraud
The Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS) is here to ensure Tennesseans have the tools they need to become financially stable and uses Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards to deliver benefits. Unfortunately, some criminals are willing to use card skimming and other tactics to steal aid meant to help families on their way to financial stability. Customers and businesses that use and accept benefits using EBT cards are strongly encouraged to review preventative measures and reporting practices to stop the theft of benefits. Click Here to learn how to prevent, report and stop EBT theft and fraud.
Electronic Benefit Transfer or EBT is a system for delivering SNAP and Families First benefits to eligible Tennesseans. The EBT system does not affect the determination of eligibility for these programs or the level of benefits that customers receive. It is simply a method of delivering the benefits. The issuance of SNAP and Families First benefits to Tennesseans is performed through the Electronic Benefit Transfer process.
Electronic Benefit Transfer is an on-line system in which food stamp and cash assistance benefits are stored in a central computer database and electronically accessed by customers at a point-of-sale machine via reusable plastic cards. In Tennessee, these EBT cards are called Benefit Security Cards.
Tennessee ’s EBT program began in November 1998 with a pilot project involving four counties. The program was then implemented over a period of several months, with full implementation of EBT completed in August 1999. There are many advantages to Tennessee having an EBT system. Food coupons and paper checks are no longer issued and accounted for on a monthly basis. The EBT issuance process is streamlined, safe, and convenient. Other advantages of the EBT process include the following:
Allowing the DHS offices to expedite services and changes
Eliminating customers' monthly trips to the office or waiting on the postman
Automating the delivery process
Helping to eliminate fraud and misuse of benefits
Saving taxpayers' money.
VIDEO: Your Tennessee EBT Card
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Contact Information
EBT Customer Service : 1-888-997-9444
EBT Merchant Service: 1-844-893-3125
If you’re a retailer interested in becoming authorized to accept SNAP (food stamp) benefits please contact the USDA, Food & Nutrition Service to start this process. This can be accomplished by contacting them at 1-877-823-4369 or go to: http://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/retailers-0
Family Assistance Service Center: Toll-Free 1-866-311-4287