It’s super frustrating when things you’re used to suddenly change, like when you can’t check your EBT balance the way you always have. You might be wondering why you can’t just call a number anymore and get the info. Well, there are a few good reasons why states are moving away from phone-based EBT balance checks and switching to other methods. Let’s explore some of those reasons!
Enhanced Security Measures
One of the biggest reasons is to protect your information. Phone systems can be less secure than online or app-based systems. Criminals might try to trick the phone system or steal your card number to get access to your funds. They might use something called “social engineering,” where they try to trick you into giving up your info.
States are constantly working to keep people’s money safe. Because phone systems are sometimes easier to mess with, states are moving to more secure options. By using an online portal or a mobile app, the state can use things like multiple layers of authentication (like a password *and* a code sent to your phone) to make it much harder for someone to get your info.
Think about it like this: your EBT card is like a debit card. You wouldn’t want someone to be able to call up and just guess your balance without any security, right? Online and app systems use better security that phone systems.
Here are some security features used in other systems:
- Two-Factor Authentication
- Encryption
- Secure login pages
- Regular Security Audits
Cost Efficiency and Modernization
Another big reason is money! Running a phone system to check EBT balances can be expensive for states. There’s the cost of the phone lines, the people answering the calls, and maintaining the whole system. Sometimes, those phone systems get outdated. This makes it harder to keep up with changes and updates.
Online portals and mobile apps, on the other hand, can be more efficient. Once they’re set up, they can handle a lot of requests without needing as much human help. States are always trying to provide services in the most cost-effective way. Using more modern technology makes things much easier for everyone.
Imagine a giant line of people waiting to talk to a person on the phone versus everyone being able to check their balance on their phone in seconds. The states realize it is much more convenient and easier to use for people to check things themselves rather than calling.
Here’s how technology improves things:
- Self-Service Options
- Automated systems
- Data analysis to improve efficiency
- Reduced human labor needs
Improving Access to Information
A lot of people have smartphones and internet access, and it’s a lot easier for states to provide information on a website or app. Checking your balance online can be a lot faster than waiting on the phone. People can access their info anytime, anywhere, as long as they have internet access.
With phone systems, there’s often a menu to navigate, wait times, and sometimes you have to speak to a real person. With online tools, you can often see your full transaction history, which is super helpful for budgeting and knowing where your money is going. You can see when your benefits are loaded and when your last purchase was.
The digital option also helps provide more resources, not just your balance. Things like where to use your card, how to get extra food, and other useful details can easily be included with a website or app. You can sometimes get notifications to help you stay on track.
Here’s what online tools give you that phone calls don’t:
- Real-time updates
- Transaction history
- Mobile Accessibility
- Helpful Resources
Accommodating Technological Advancements
Technology is always changing, and states are trying to keep up. Phone systems are old-school technology, while the internet and smartphones are the present and future. Moving to online and app-based systems allows states to provide better and newer services.
When technology becomes obsolete it’s more difficult to provide the services that people need. For example, the state can provide information on upcoming changes to the food stamp program via a website or app. You might not even be able to access a phone-based system if they can’t provide updates because it’s too old.
When you’re able to use new tech like apps, it opens up a wide range of helpful functions. You can quickly see your balance. You can also easily find the closest places that accept EBT cards. Some apps allow you to block your card if it is lost or stolen to prevent it from being used.
| Technology | Advantage |
|---|---|
| Websites | Easily update information |
| Mobile Apps | Accessible on-the-go |
| Data Analytics | Provide a personalized user experience |
Reducing Wait Times and Call Volume
Many people use EBT benefits, so phone lines can get super busy, especially when benefits are issued at the beginning of the month. People can be on hold for a long time just to check their balance, which is frustrating.
Shifting to online and app-based systems helps reduce the load on phone lines. By allowing people to check their own balances, it frees up phone lines for people who really need to speak to a representative, like if they have a lost or stolen card or have other complex issues. Fewer people calling means shorter wait times for those who need assistance.
Also, because people check things themselves, there are fewer questions asked about balances, leaving more time for case workers and customer service representatives to deal with real problems. You might only call them if there’s an actual problem rather than something you can resolve by yourself.
Some people also have trouble hearing or have difficulty using the phone. The online and app systems help with this because they can provide written information instead of audio. Here are the benefits of online/app self-service:
- Reduced Wait Times
- Fewer calls to representatives
- More time for other services
- More accessibility
Improving Accessibility for All Users
The states want to make sure everyone can access and manage their benefits, no matter their circumstances. Apps and websites can be designed to be accessible to people with disabilities, such as providing text-to-speech options for people who have trouble seeing.
Online systems can also be translated into multiple languages, making it easier for people who don’t speak English to understand their benefits. In a phone system, it’s difficult to provide those options.
Some people don’t have phones and computers, so the state has to help these people too. States often set up kiosks in community centers or libraries, giving those people free access to check their balance. The state also uses mail to let people know their balance if needed. They are always looking for ways to make sure people know how to check their balance.
| Accessibility Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Text-to-speech | Helps visually impaired people |
| Translation options | Helps people who don’t speak English |
| Kiosks | Gives access to people without computers |
The reason you can no longer check your EBT balance by phone is due to the increased safety and convenience of alternative methods.
Conclusion
So, while it might be a little annoying at first to change how you check your EBT balance, there are many good reasons behind it. The switch to online portals and mobile apps is all about keeping your information safe, saving money, providing better service, and making it easier for you to manage your benefits. By embracing new technology, the state can provide better service. Things are always changing and that is why you can no longer check your EBT balance by phone.