Ohio EBT Customer Service Number — Complete Practical Guide

What the Ohio EBT (Ohio Direction Card) customer service line covers

The Ohio Direction Card is Ohio’s EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) card for SNAP (formerly food stamps) and cash assistance. The customer service number printed on the back of the card and published by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) is the first and fastest channel for immediate cardholder issues: checking current balances, getting an account transaction history, changing or resetting your PIN, reporting a lost or stolen card, and requesting a replacement card. Automated account-balance and PIN services are typically available 24/7 through the toll-free line; live agents can assist with complex problems or fraud reports.

For policy, eligibility, or case-specific benefit questions (approval, recoupment, months of eligibility, sanction information), your county Job and Family Services caseworker or the ODJFS website is the appropriate resource. The ODJFS website (jfs.ohio.gov) and your county office are the official authorities for case decisions; the EBT processor provides card-level technical support and account information.

Key contact information and where to verify it

Always verify phone numbers and hours on official materials because processors and phone numbers can change. The most reliable places to find the Ohio Direction Card customer service number are: the back of your Ohio Direction Card, the official ODJFS website (https://jfs.ohio.gov), and the county Job & Family Services office that manages your case. ODJFS central office mailing address (for written correspondence) is: Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, 30 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43215.

Commonly used contacts you should save and verify before calling:

  • Check the back of your Ohio Direction Card — it always lists the current toll-free customer service number for card issues, balance inquiries and lost/stolen reports.
  • ODJFS website (https://jfs.ohio.gov) — case policy, county office locator, program rules, and links to online portals for submitting documents or appeals.

What to have ready when you call — a compact checklist

Calling an EBT customer service line is fastest and most productive when you come prepared. Have these items available before you dial so the agent can verify identity, look up your account, and process requests without repeated callbacks.

  • Your Ohio Direction Card number (16 digits on the front of the card) or the last 4 digits if asked; your case number (from ODJFS letters) and the recipient’s date of birth.
  • Personal identification details: full name exactly as on the case, address on file, and the last four digits of the Social Security number (if required for verification).
  • Specific transaction details for disputes: merchant name, date/time, amount, and the terminal type (if visible on your receipt or account history).

Lost, stolen, or compromised card — step-by-step practical timeline

If your Direction Card is lost or stolen, immediately call the customer service number printed on the back of the card. The automated line can usually block the card instantly to prevent unauthorized use. After blocking, you can request a replacement card be mailed; typical turnaround time for mailed replacements is commonly 5–10 business days, though local county offices may offer expedited replacement options in emergency circumstances. Ask the agent for the expected delivery time and whether an in-person pick-up is possible at your county office.

When reporting fraudulent transactions, request a transaction dispute form or instructions for filing a claim. Keep all receipts and a written timeline of the suspicious activity. ODJFS/EBT processors generally investigate disputes and may temporarily re-credit disputed SNAP funds pending the outcome; however, timelines for final resolution vary—ask the agent for reference numbers and expected follow-up dates.

Fees, ATM usage, and retailer rules — what to expect

SNAP benefits on the Ohio Direction Card may only be used for eligible food items; retailers cannot charge a fee for SNAP purchases. Cash benefits (if you receive the card for cash assistance) can be withdrawn from ATMs and participating retailers; ATM owners and out-of-network ATMs can impose surcharge fees that range widely (commonly $1.50–$3.00 per withdrawal depending on the terminal). Ask your agent or check your account for in-network ATM locations to avoid unnecessary fees.

Point-of-sale issues (declines, machine errors) can often be resolved by confirming the PIN and retrying, but repeated declines should be documented and reported. If a retailer gives incorrect change or does not process a transaction correctly, keep the sales receipt and record the date/time; those details are critical for successful dispute resolution.

Accessibility, language options, and hours

Most EBT customer service systems provide multilingual automated prompts and interpreter services for live agents—Spanish is commonly available and additional languages can typically be requested. Toll-free automated services for balance inquiries are commonly available 24/7; live-agent hours vary by processor and county and are posted on the back of the card or the ODJFS site. If you need an accessibility accommodation (TTY, relay services, or other aids), request it when calling or contact your county Job & Family Services office directly.

When phone lines are busy, use the secure online portals linked on jfs.ohio.gov or your county’s website to check balances, view transaction history, and upload documents. Keep a photocopy or photo of your Direction Card and front-facing ID secure (not stored on the card) to speed written requests or in-person service visits.

How do I find my caseworker for food stamps?

Information you can call or visit the office. When you call let them know you need to speak with your caseworker. If you visit in person ask to be directed to the caseworker assigned to your case.

What is the phone number for Ohio JFS benefits?

Phone:1-844-640-OHIO (6446)
Please see below for a list of phone options you will receive when you call our Customer Access Center.

What is the phone number for connect EBT Ohio?

1-866-386-3071
Find your account balance by checking your last receipt, calling Customer Service at 1-866-386-3071 or visiting the website at www.ebt.acs-inc.com.
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How do I check the status of my food stamps in Ohio?

To check the status of your case:
Call 1-844-640-OHIO (6446) and select your English*. You’ll be asked to provide your zip code, Social Security Number and date of birth. You will then be provided with your benefit status. If the system can’t verify your identity, you may not be able to access the status of your case.

How do I talk to someone at Ohio EBT?

How can we help you? Call the toll-free Enterprise Helpdesk Number at 1-844-640-OHIO (6446) for questions regarding a Medicaid, SNAP, or Cash Assistance, or Early Care & Education Services application.

What number can you call for EBT?

Change your PIN and report your lost or stolen card immediately. You can do this by calling the California EBT Customer Service Helpline at 1-877-328-9677 (TTY: 1-800-735-2929). To request a replacement of your stolen benefits online, follow these steps: Visit your Dashboard and select “View Case Details”.

Jerold Heckel

Jerold Heckel is a passionate writer and blogger who enjoys exploring new ideas and sharing practical insights with readers. Through his articles, Jerold aims to make complex topics easy to understand and inspire others to think differently. His work combines curiosity, experience, and a genuine desire to help people grow.

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