North Carolina’s Food and Nutrition Services is working to help FNS beneficiaries whose benefits have been stolen by card skimming, cloning and other types of fraud. If you’ve had your FNS benefits stolen, learn how to ask to have your benefits reimbursed.
Find answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs): English, Spanish.
Food and Nutrition Services (FNS, also known as Food Stamps) is a program that helps eligible people with limited incomes supplement their budgets so they can purchase food.
The benefits are given on an EBT card, which works like a debit card. You can use it to buy food at stores that accept EBT cards. Look for signs that say, “We accept SNAP benefits.”
Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) eligibility is determined by income, household size, assets, and many other factors. Because the calculation is complex, the best way to find out if you’re eligible is to apply.
Don't wait! Your benefits start from the date we get your application — even if it's not complete. Find out how to apply for FNS benefits.
To qualify, your household must meet certain rules about how much money you make, how much money and property you have, and where you live.
1. Applying for yourself or as a household.
You are a household of one (1) if you live alone, are homeless, or have roommates you do not cook and eat meals with. When you apply, remember that your household is just you.
If you live with your family or others and you prepare and eat meals with them, count each of those people in your household. That includes children and seniors in your home.
2. Income and resource limits.
For most people, FNS eligibility has limits to the income you and others in your household can receive. Additionally, there are limits on how much money and property ("resources") you can have. You may still qualify if you work part-time, make a little money, or own a home or car.
After you apply, case workers determine which limits apply to you, and whether certain deductions (like for medical and/or shelter expenses) might help you qualify.
3. Other requirements.
Applying for FNS benefits – also called Food Stamps – can feel overwhelming, but we have created a checklist to help you prepare:
If you’re ready to apply or are checking on the status of your application, visit the ePASS website.
You can now submit online recertifications. Visit the FNS and SNAP Recertification page to learn more and view frequently asked questions.
You can now submit online change of circumstances. Visit the FNS and SNAP Change of Circumstance page to learn more and view frequently asked questions.
There are several ways to check FNS balances and all are available 24/7. Make sure you have your card number ready. Then you can:
If you can’t find your card or card number, call 1-888-622-7328 for assistance.
If you are having an issue with your EBT Card, like if it gets lost or you forget your PIN, look through the EBT FAQs here.
You can activate your card, select a PIN, check your card balance, view your transaction history or cancel your EBT card by using the cardholder portal at www.ebtEdge.com or through the EBT Edge mobile app available at Google Play or the Apple Store.
For other questions, you can call the NC EBT Call Center at 1-866-719-0141 or use our contact form here. The Call Center is open from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm Monday through Friday. It is not open on weekends or holidays.
Need additional help? Call the NC EBT Call Center at 1-866-719-0141, or send an online message to the Division of Social Services.