What Happens If You Don’t Use All Your Food Stamps for the Month? Rollover Rules, Expiration, and Smart Benefit Management

By Christopher TaylorLast Updated June 27, 2025

Understanding SNAP Benefits and Monthly Rollover Rules

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), previously known as food stamps, provides monthly benefits that help eligible individuals and families buy nutritious food. SNAP benefits are distributed electronically to an EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) card, which works much like a debit card at approved grocery stores and retailers. One of the most frequently asked questions is: What happens if you don’t use all your SNAP benefits for the month?

Do SNAP Benefits Expire Each Month?

SNAP benefits do not expire at the end of each month . Any unused balance on your EBT card will typically roll over to the next month [1] [2] . This means you can accumulate benefits for a period of time, helping you save for larger grocery purchases or unplanned needs. However, there are important rules to keep in mind to avoid losing your benefits.

How Long Can Unused SNAP Benefits Be Rolled Over?

While unused benefits roll over each month, there is a time limit for how long you can keep them . If your EBT card shows no purchase activity for 12 consecutive months (365 days) , your unused benefits will be expunged (removed) from your account permanently [3] [4] . In some states, such as California, you must use your EBT card at least once every 4.5 months to keep your account active. If there is no activity for a full year, all remaining benefits expire [5] .

Key takeaway
: Unused SNAP benefits roll over each month , but you must make at least one purchase within a 12-month period (or sooner, depending on your state) to prevent the funds from expiring.

What Happens If You Don’t Use Your SNAP Benefits for Several Months?

If you leave benefits unused for several months, your EBT card will continue to accumulate the balance [1] . However, if there is no activity for a set period (often 12 months), the balance may be removed. States may send reminders or warnings before expunging your account, but policies differ. For instance, in Indiana, balances over $2,000 are regularly reviewed, and inactivity can result in loss of benefits [3] .

Are There Any Restrictions on SNAP Benefit Use?

You cannot withdraw your SNAP balance as cash or transfer it to someone else . Benefits are strictly for purchasing eligible food items. Items such as alcohol, tobacco, hot foods prepared for immediate consumption, and non-food products are not eligible [1] .

Best Practices for Managing Your SNAP Benefits

1. Track Your Balance Regularly

Staying aware of your EBT balance helps you plan purchases and avoid accidental expiration. You can track your balance in several ways:

Online portal or mobile app : Most states offer secure websites or apps to check your EBT account.
Customer service hotline : Call your state’s SNAP customer service number for your current balance.
Receipts : Your balance is printed at the bottom of every receipt after you use your EBT card.

For details on accessing your state’s portal or hotline, search for your state’s official SNAP program website or contact your local social services office [4] .

2. Make at Least One Purchase Every Few Months

To keep your account active and benefits safe, use your EBT card at least once every few months . Even a small purchase will reset the inactivity clock. In some states, inactivity for as little as 4.5 months can trigger account inactivity, so check your state’s specific guidelines [5] .

3. Plan Your Purchases to Maximize Benefits

SNAP benefits are best used to purchase staple foods and items that stretch your food budget. Plan your shopping trips around sales, seasonal produce, and bulk items to maximize value. If you foresee a month when you’ll need less, you can save benefits for future months, but be mindful of the inactivity and expiration rules.

4. Avoiding Common Pitfalls

Some recipients forget to use their EBT card, especially if their circumstances improve or if they move. Others mistakenly believe benefits disappear at the end of each month. To avoid losing your benefits:

Set calendar reminders to use your EBT card regularly.
Contact your state SNAP office if you move or your household size changes.
Monitor your mail and messages from your SNAP agency for expiration notices.

State-Specific Policies and Where to Find Help

Policies regarding benefit rollover, inactivity periods, and expungement can differ from state to state. For the most accurate, up-to-date information:

Visit your state’s official SNAP program website . Most states have a portal where you can access your account and read the latest benefit rules.
Contact your local Department of Social Services or equivalent agency for personalized help.
Search ”
[Your State] SNAP EBT
” to find the correct portal or helpline.

If you have trouble locating your state’s official SNAP website, you can call the national SNAP hotline at 1-800-221-5689 for assistance.

What to Do If You Lose Your Benefits

If your benefits have expired due to inactivity or other reasons, you may be able to reapply or request a review depending on your state’s rules. Reach out to your local SNAP office promptly, explain your situation, and ask about possible reinstatement or reapplication procedures. Be prepared to provide documentation regarding your eligibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my old, unused benefits for non-food items?

No. SNAP benefits can only be used for eligible food items and cannot be exchanged for cash or non-food goods [1] .

How do I know if my balance is about to expire?

Most states send warning notices by mail or electronically before expunging benefits. You can also check your transaction history online or by calling your state’s EBT customer service line.

What should I do if my EBT card is inactive?

If you haven’t used your card in several months, make a small purchase as soon as possible to reactivate your account. If your account has been inactive for over six months, contact your local SNAP office to check on your benefits status and learn about reactivation procedures [5] .

Key Takeaways and Next Steps

Unused SNAP benefits do not disappear at the end of the month -they roll over automatically, giving you flexibility in your food budget. However, you must use your EBT card at least once every 12 months (or sooner in some states) to avoid permanent loss of your accumulated balance. Always track your benefits regularly, read official program notices, and contact your local agency if you have questions about your account or eligibility. If you need more help, search for your state’s SNAP website or call the national hotline for guidance.