Hey! If you’re trying to figure out this whole Maine EBT card thing (it’s also called the Pine Tree Card), don’t stress—I’ve got you. This is basically a debit card that the state loads with money every month so you can buy groceries. It’s part of Maine SNAP benefits (or Food Supplement Program). Whether you’re just starting or you already have it and need help checking your balance, this guide is gonna make it easy.
Quick heads-up: Rules can change, so double-check with the official Maine DHHS website or call them if you need the newest info.
How to Check Your Maine EBT Balance
Probably the #1 question: “how do I check my Maine EBT balance?” Super simple options:
- Call 1-800-477-7428 (the Maine EBT customer service number) and it’ll tell you right away.
- Use the ebtEDGE app or website.
- Log into My Maine Connection online.
- Or just look at your receipt after you buy something.
I like the phone way because it’s open 24/7 and free.
| Way to Check | How | Why It’s Good |
| Phone | 1-800-477-7428 | Always works, no internet |
| ebtEDGE App | Download it | See your last purchases too |
| Store Receipt | After you pay | Easy if you’re already shopping |
| My Maine Connection | Online account | Good for everything else too |
When Do SNAP Benefits Hit My Card?
Your SNAP benefits drop onto your Pine Tree Card every month, usually between the 10th and 14th. It depends on the last number of the main person’s birthday in your house.
They show up super early in the morning, so you can hit the store right away if you want.
| Last Number of Birthday | Day It Usually Loads |
| 0 or 1 | 10th |
| 2 or 3 | 11th |
| 4 or 5 | 12th |
| 6 or 7 | 13th |
| 8 or 9 | 14th |
How to Apply for Maine SNAP Benefits
Wanna know how to apply for SNAP in Maine? It’s not as hard as it looks.
Most people qualify if their money situation is tight—lots of working families get it too. Just go online to My Maine Connection (easiest), call 1-855-797-4357, or go to a DHHS office.
They’ll ask some questions and check stuff, but if you’re really struggling, you can get benefits super fast.
What Can You Actually Buy with Maine EBT?
Here’s the deal on what you can buy with your Maine EBT card:
Yes: Fruits, veggies, meat, milk, bread, cereal, snacks, soda, seeds to grow food.
No: Hot food from the deli, beer, cigarettes, vitamins, soap, dog food.
| Stuff You Can Get | Stuff You Can’t |
| Apples, chicken, eggs | Hot pizza, alcohol |
| Cereal, juice, cheese | Cleaning stuff, pet food |
Where Can You Use the Pine Tree Card?
Pretty much anywhere that sells food!
- Regular stores (Walmart, Hannaford, etc.)
- Farmers markets that accept EBT in Maine (some even give you extra money for fruits and veggies!)
- Online at places like Amazon, Walmart, Hannaford, and Shaw’s (you can get delivery, but you pay the fee yourself).
| Store | In Person | Online |
| Walmart | Yes | Yes |
| Amazon | No | Yes |
| Hannaford/Shaw’s | Yes | Yes |
| Farmers Markets | Yes | No |
Lost or Stolen Card? No Panic!
If your Maine EBT card is lost or stolen, call 1-800-477-7428 ASAP. They’ll shut it down so no one else can use it and send you a new one fast.
When the new card comes, you’ll have to set a new PIN.
How to Keep Your Card Safe from Scams
People try to steal EBT money with skimmers (fake card readers). Here’s how to stay safe:
- Cover the keypad when you type your PIN.
- Change your PIN a lot.
- Use the app to lock your card when you’re not using it.
- Never tell anyone your PIN—not even if someone says they’re from the government.
Maine SUN Bucks (Summer Money for Kids)
If you have kids in school, you might get Maine SUN Bucks—it’s like $120 extra per kid in the summer for groceries. It goes on the same Pine Tree Card. A lot of families get it automatically.
Telling Them When Things Change
If you move, get a job, or anything big changes, tell them on My Maine Connection so your benefits stay right.
Read More: How to Get Food Stamps (SNAP) in Las Vegas, NV: Easy 2026 Guide
Cool Extra Perks with Your Card
Your card can get you discounts!
- Cheap tickets to some museums.
- Bonus money at farmers markets.
- Sometimes cheaper internet.
Common Problems & Who to Call
Card not working? Call these numbers:
| Problem | Number |
| Balance or lost card | 1-800-477-7428 |
| Applying or changes | 1-855-797-4357 |
FAQs – Maine EBT Card
How to check Maine EBT balance? Call 1-800-477-7428 or use the app.
What if my Maine EBT card is lost or stolen? Call the hotline right away.
Where can I use Pine Tree Card online? Amazon, Walmart, grocery stores.
What can you buy with Maine EBT? Pretty much any food that’s not hot or alcohol.
Hope this makes everything way less confusing! If you still have questions, just call the numbers—they’re actually helpful. You’ve got this! For more information, must visit Snapusda.com
