If your SNAP balance suddenly disappears, it can be a devastating surprise. Many people don’t realize that their EBT funds can expire or be stolen. One moment you’re counting on that money to feed your family, and the next, it’s gone. Whether it’s the result of fraud or inactivity, missing SNAP funds always create stress. So let’s talk about why this happens—and what you can do to protect your benefits.
The #1 Reason: EBT Theft
In recent years, scammers have become increasingly skilled at stealing EBT information. Most EBT thefts happen when criminals install hidden skimming devices on card readers at stores or ATMs. These devices collect your card number and PIN without your knowledge. Once they have your information, they can clone your card and drain your funds—often before you even know something’s wrong.
It’s confusing because you still have your original card, and everything appears normal. But behind the scenes, a cloned copy of your card is being used somewhere else, usually right after your benefits are deposited.
To stay safe, it’s a good idea to check card readers before using them. If the reader looks loose, bulky, or tampered with, don’t swipe. Always cover the keypad when entering your PIN and try to change your PIN regularly. Some state EBT systems even let you freeze your card between uses. If your state offers this, take advantage of it. Changing your PIN once a month is a simple way to stop thieves from accessing your account if your card was compromised.
Another Cause: SNAP Benefits Can Expire
Most people don’t realize that SNAP benefits can expire if they go unused. While unused funds typically roll over month to month, there are limits. If you go nine consecutive months without using your EBT card, your balance will be erased. This process is known as benefit expungement, and it happens automatically after about 274 days of inactivity.
This is especially risky for people who receive very small benefit amounts. It’s common to try to save those funds for a bulk shopping trip, but if you wait too long, you could lose the entire balance. In some states, EBT cards can even be moved offline after just 90 days of inactivity. If that happens, you’ll need to call in before using the card again—even if the benefits are still there.
To avoid this, make at least one small purchase every three months with your EBT card. This keeps your account active and helps prevent your funds from disappearing. It’s also important to check your mail. If your state plans to expunge your benefits or lock your card, they are required to notify you in advance—but only if they have your current address. Keeping your contact information up to date is essential.
Special Rules for SUN Bucks
If your child received Summer EBT (also known as SUN Bucks), those benefits come with a much shorter expiration period. SUN Bucks provide about $120 per child during the summer, or roughly $40 per month.
However, these benefits expire just 122 days after they’re loaded onto your card. If you wait too long, those funds will vanish and they won’t be restored. If your family receives SUN Bucks, be sure to use them quickly. These expiration rules are different from regular SNAP benefits, and they catch many people by surprise.
What If It Was a Recertification Issue?
If your benefits suddenly stopped and you didn’t receive a new deposit, your case may have closed due to a missed recertification. SNAP households typically need to renew their eligibility every six to twelve months. If you miss a deadline, skip the interview, or fail to submit required documents, your benefits can be cut off.
The good news is that this is usually easy to fix. You just need to reapply. Once you’re approved again, your benefits will restart—but they won’t be backdated. Unfortunately, any benefits you missed during the lapse are typically lost for good.
If you are elderly or have a disability and receive a fixed income, ask your local SNAP office about ESAP (Elderly Simplified Application Project). This program can reduce how often you need to recertify, extending the timeline to once every two or three years instead of every six months.
Relief Recap
Losing SNAP benefits—whether from theft, expiration, or a missed renewal—is always difficult. But with a few simple steps, you can protect your balance and avoid unnecessary stress. Use your card regularly, stay alert for signs of fraud, and make sure your state agency can reach you with important updates. If something does go wrong, don’t panic. In most cases, you can reapply and start receiving benefits again quickly.
If you found this helpful, check out our other SNAP resources. We’ve got clear, practical information to help you keep your benefits safe and your family fed.