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Why Isn’t My Walmart EBT Card Working Online? Troubleshooting Tips

BySamantha Lee Updated on

Have you tried to use your EBT card on Walmart’s website or app only to find that it’s declined or not working? This frustrating issue has likely affected EBT recipients across the country at some point.

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: There are several reasons your Walmart EBT card may not work online, including website outages, an expired or inactive card, entering your PIN incorrectly, or even fraud protection. You’ll need to troubleshoot or contact customer service.

In this detailed guide, we’ll walk through the top reasons your Walmart EBT card isn’t working online and provide troubleshooting tips to resolve them. You’ll also learn how to avoid EBT scams and use your benefits online safely.

Why Your Walmart EBT Card Isn’t Working

If you’re experiencing issues with your Walmart EBT card not working online, there could be several reasons for this.

Let’s explore some of the common troubleshooting tips to help you resolve the problem and get back to using your EBT benefits.

Technical/System Outages

One possible reason for your Walmart EBT card not working online is a technical or system outage. These outages can occur due to maintenance or other technical issues.

During these times, the EBT system may be temporarily unavailable, preventing you from making online purchases.

It’s always a good idea to check the official website or contact your state’s EBT customer service to see if there are any known outages in your area.

Your EBT Card Is Not Activated

If your EBT card is not activated, it will not work for online purchases. Activation is typically done when you first receive your card, but in some cases, you may need to activate it manually.

To activate your EBT card, follow the instructions provided by your state’s EBT program.

This usually involves calling a toll-free number or visiting a website to enter your card information and personal details.

Your EBT Card Is Expired

EBT cards may have an expiration date printed on them. If your card has expired, it will no longer work for online purchases.

In this case, you will need to contact your state’s EBT customer service to request a new card.

They will guide you through the process of obtaining a replacement card, which may involve providing necessary documentation and completing an application.

Your Card Has Been Blocked

In some cases, your EBT card may be blocked due to suspicious activity or a security measure.

If this happens, you will need to contact your state’s EBT customer service to resolve the issue. They will be able to investigate the block and guide you on the necessary steps to unblock your card.

It’s important to report any unauthorized transactions or suspicious activity on your EBT card immediately.

Website/App Issues

Occasionally, the issue may not lie with your EBT card but with the Walmart website or app itself.

Technical glitches or compatibility issues can cause problems with the checkout process. In such cases, you can try using a different device or browser, clearing your cache and cookies, or contacting Walmart customer service for assistance.

They may be able to provide you with alternative methods to complete your online purchase using your EBT card.

Remember, it’s always a good idea to keep your EBT card in a safe place and protect it from damage. If you’re still experiencing issues with your Walmart EBT card not working online after trying these troubleshooting tips, it’s best to reach out to your state’s EBT customer service for further assistance.

Why Isn't My Walmart EBT Card Working Online

Troubleshooting Tips to Fix the Problem

Check for System Outages

If your Walmart EBT card is not working online, it could be due to a system outage. Before jumping to any conclusions, it’s a good idea to check if there are any ongoing issues with the EBT system.

You can visit the official website of your state’s EBT program or call their customer service helpline to inquire about any known system outages. If there is an outage, it’s best to wait until the issue is resolved before attempting to use your card online again.

Activate an Inactive EBT Card

If your Walmart EBT card is inactive, it will not work online.

In most cases, EBT cards are issued as inactive and need to be activated before they can be used. The activation process may vary depending on your state, but it typically involves calling a toll-free number or visiting the EBT card website.

Make sure to follow the instructions provided by your state’s EBT program to activate your card. Once activated, your EBT card should work seamlessly for online purchases at Walmart.

Get a Replacement for an Expired Card

If your Walmart EBT card has expired, it will no longer work for online transactions.

EBT cards may have an expiration date printed on them, and it’s important to keep track of this date. When your card expires, you will need to contact your state’s EBT program to request a replacement card.

They will guide you through the process of obtaining a new card, which will be active and ready for online use once received.

Unblock a Blocked Card

If your Walmart EBT card is blocked, it won’t work online.

Cards can be blocked for various reasons, such as suspected fraud or unauthorized activity. If you believe your card has been blocked by mistake, you should contact your state’s EBT program immediately.

They will investigate the issue and unblock your card if necessary. It’s important to provide any requested information or documentation to resolve the block as quickly as possible.

Clear Website/App Cache and Cookies

If none of the above troubleshooting tips have resolved the issue, it’s worth trying to clear the cache and cookies on the website or app you are using to access your EBT account. Over time, these temporary files can accumulate and cause conflicts with the functionality of the website or app.

Clearing them can help refresh the site or app, potentially resolving any issues that may be preventing your Walmart EBT card from working online. Instructions for clearing cache and cookies can usually be found in the settings or preferences section of your browser or app.

Avoiding EBT Scams and Using Your Card Safely Online

Using your Walmart EBT card online can be convenient and efficient, but it’s important to prioritize your safety and protect yourself from potential scams.

By following a few simple tips, you can ensure a secure online shopping experience.

Only Use Legitimate Websites/Apps

When using your Walmart EBT card online, it’s crucial to only shop on legitimate websites or apps. Stick to well-known and reputable retailers to minimize the risk of encountering fraudulent platforms.

Be cautious of unfamiliar websites that offer unrealistic discounts or deals, as these may be indicators of scams.

Ensure that the website or app you are using for your EBT transactions is secure. Look for the padlock symbol in the address bar and ensure that the website’s URL begins with “https” instead of “http.” This indicates that your information will be encrypted and protected.

Never Share EBT Card Details

One of the most important rules when it comes to EBT card safety is to never share your card details with anyone. This includes your card number, expiration date, and PIN.

Government agencies and authorized retailers will never ask for this information over the phone, email, or text message. If someone claiming to be from a government agency or retailer contacts you and asks for your EBT card details, it’s likely a scam.

Hang up the phone or delete the message immediately. Remember, your EBT card information is private and should only be used by you.

Enter Your PIN Carefully

When making a purchase online with your EBT card, you will be required to enter your PIN. Make sure to enter it carefully to avoid any errors. Double-check the numbers before submitting your payment to ensure that your transaction goes smoothly.

Keep in mind that your PIN should be kept confidential and not shared with anyone. Memorize it or write it down in a secure place where it cannot be easily accessed by others.

Enter PIN

Watch Out for Suspicious Links or Requests

Be cautious of any suspicious links or requests that you receive while using your EBT card online. Scammers often attempt to trick users into clicking on fraudulent links or providing personal information through deceptive emails or messages.

If you receive an email or message that seems suspicious, do not click on any links or provide any personal information. Instead, delete the message and report it to the appropriate authorities, such as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

Who to Contact if Your Card Still Won’t Work

Your State’s EBT Customer Service

If you have tried all the troubleshooting tips and your Walmart EBT card is still not working online, it may be time to contact your state’s EBT customer service. Each state has its own EBT program and customer service hotline to assist users with any issues they may be experiencing.

The customer service representatives are knowledgeable and can help troubleshoot the problem or provide guidance on what steps to take next. To find the contact information for your state’s EBT customer service, visit the official website of your state’s Department of Social Services or the EBT program.

Walmart Customer Service

If your Walmart EBT card is still not working online and you have already contacted your state’s EBT customer service, the next step is to reach out to Walmart’s customer service. Walmart has a dedicated customer service team that can assist you with any issues related to your EBT card and online transactions.

You can contact Walmart customer service through their website, by phone, or by visiting your local Walmart store. The customer service representatives will be able to provide further assistance and help resolve the issue you are experiencing.

Remember, it is important to have patience and remain calm when dealing with any technical issues. The customer service representatives are there to help you and will do their best to resolve the problem as quickly as possible.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting technical issues with your EBT card can be frustrating, but this guide should help you identify and resolve potential problems.

With the right information and a few easy troubleshooting steps, you can often get your Walmart EBT card working online again quickly.

Be sure to also keep EBT scam prevention tips in mind to keep your benefits safe. Reach out to customer service if you need additional help getting your card active online again.

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Samantha Lee is the founder and editor-in-chief of the Own Your Own Future blog. As a serial entrepreneur and business coach, Samantha is passionate about empowering people to build businesses and careers they love.

After struggling to find fulfilling work in the corporate world, Samantha started her first company at age 30. Through many ups and downs, she gained first-hand experience in creating a purpose-driven business aligned with her values.

Eager to help others find professional happiness on their own terms, Samantha launched the Own Your Own Future blog. She provides tips and interviews with entrepreneurs across industries to inspire readers to take the leap.

With a background in marketing and over a decade running her own companies, Samantha offers practical guidance on topics like getting started, managing finances, marketing effectively, and maintaining work-life balance. She also shares insights from her own entrepreneurial journey.

At the core of Samantha's message is her belief that each of us has a unique set of gifts and dreams. By taking control of our careers and finances, we can spend our time and talents in meaningful ways that serve both ourselves and our communities. Samantha currently lives in Fremont with her family, where she runs her latest startup while continuing to empower budding entrepreneurs.