So, you’re in the same boat as a lot of people: Your EBT application says “In Progress.” It can be super frustrating when you’re waiting to see if you can get help with groceries, and the status just… stays the same. You’re probably wondering, “What’s going on?” and “How long will this take?” Don’t worry, you’re not alone, and we’ll break down some common reasons why your application might be stuck in “In Progress” mode, and what you can do about it.
Why is My Application Taking So Long?
The main reason your application is in “In Progress” is because the government agency processing it, probably the Department of Social Services or a similar agency, is still reviewing it. This can involve a lot of steps, and it’s not always a quick process. They need to check everything to make sure you qualify for benefits. Sometimes it is because they are really busy.

This means that the agency is currently reviewing the information you submitted, and they haven’t made a decision yet. They’re basically double-checking all the details you provided to ensure you meet the requirements for EBT benefits. This is to make sure that everyone who needs help gets it, and that the system isn’t being misused.
They have to look at your income, how many people are in your household, and sometimes things like your assets (like savings). This thorough review is designed to ensure fairness. It’s a necessary step, but it can definitely lead to delays. They have a lot of applications to get through, and each one needs a careful look.
Think of it like this: they’re like a detective checking all the facts of a case. The more complex the case, the longer it takes. The same goes for your EBT application. If you have a simple case, it might get processed faster. If there are complications, it could take longer.
Missing Documents and Information
A common reason for delays is missing or incomplete information. When you apply for EBT, you usually have to provide documents, like proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns), proof of address (a bill, lease agreement), and identification (a driver’s license or ID card). If something is missing, the agency can’t finish reviewing your application.
They might need more info to confirm what you told them. The agency won’t automatically know if a document is missing. You’ll usually get a notice that says something is missing. It’s important to check your mail (both physical and email) and any online portals you might be using for application updates.
- Missing pay stubs
- Incorrect address listed
- Lack of ID verification
- Failure to provide proof of residence
They might be waiting on you to send in something they need. If they are waiting on you, they won’t move to the next step until they have all they need to process it. This is why it’s so important to be accurate and complete when you apply. If they need something, send it right away.
Verification and Background Checks
Part of the review process might involve verification with other agencies or background checks. This could mean the agency is contacting your employer, checking with your bank, or verifying information with the Social Security Administration. These processes can sometimes take time.
They’re often checking the info you provided to make sure it’s true. Think of it as a fact-check. This might involve calling your landlord, checking your employment records, or verifying the number of people in your household. This is all part of the government’s responsibility to ensure the program works fairly and correctly.
- Income verification from employer.
- Address and residency checks
- Bank and asset verification.
- Identity verification.
While the agency does this, your application will stay in “In Progress.” It’s just a waiting game until those checks come back. These verifications can sometimes take weeks, or even longer, depending on how responsive other agencies are.
Backlogs and High Application Volume
During times of economic hardship or increased need, agencies often experience a surge in EBT applications. This can lead to significant backlogs, meaning a lot of applications are waiting to be processed. Imagine a long line at the DMV – it takes longer for each person to be served when there are more people in line.
Backlogs are unfortunately pretty common. The agency is working to get through applications as fast as they can. If many people apply at the same time, it will naturally slow down the entire process. The agency might also be understaffed, which can make the situation even worse.
Factor | Impact |
---|---|
Economic downturn | Increased application volume |
Staffing shortages | Slower processing times |
System updates | Temporary delays |
The “In Progress” status might stay that way for a while. When there are more applications than the agency can handle quickly, the waiting period will naturally increase. While you might have applied on the very first day, if others have also applied at the same time, the wait might still be pretty long.
Technical Difficulties and System Issues
Sometimes, the delay isn’t about your application itself but about technical problems on the agency’s end. Computer systems can go down, software can have glitches, and websites can experience outages. These problems can interrupt processing and cause delays.
Sometimes systems might not be working properly, leading to a longer wait. Think of it like the internet going down in the middle of your homework. The system may have problems, such as updates or technical problems that could cause delays in your application’s processing.
- Website outages
- System glitches
- Database errors
- Software updates
These problems can impact all applications being processed at the same time. While the agency works to fix the issues, processing slows down. While the agency might be fast, they cannot control technical difficulties. This can cause everything to slow down.
Changes in Eligibility Rules
Eligibility requirements for EBT and other assistance programs can change. These changes can be due to new legislation, budget adjustments, or federal guidelines. If the rules change while your application is being processed, it can slow things down.
The changes might require the agency to re-evaluate your application. Any changes could affect your eligibility. The agency must make sure that your application aligns with the new standards. If the government changes the rules, it can take time to review applications.
- New income limits
- Updated asset rules
- Changes to household definitions
- Program modifications
This is another factor that is beyond your control. When the rules change, the agency needs time to make sure they’re following the new rules. This adds to processing time. This adds to processing time, and unfortunately, it can put you in “In Progress” for longer.
What You Can Do While Waiting
While you wait for your application to be processed, there are a few things you can do. First, keep checking your mail, email, and any online portals. This is how the agency will contact you. Make sure you respond promptly if they ask for any more information.
Make sure you have your information ready. If you did not send in all the documents, prepare them so you can send them when the agency requests them. Double-check your application to make sure there are no typos or errors, and be prepared to answer questions if you are contacted. It’s like having your homework ready so that you don’t miss out.
Action | Benefit |
---|---|
Check mail and email regularly | Stay informed about requests for info |
Gather needed documents | Prepare to respond quickly |
Contact the agency (if appropriate) | Get status updates, if possible |
If it has been a long time and you have heard nothing, you can contact the agency to ask for an update. Keep track of your application number. Be polite when contacting them. If there’s a phone number or email address for inquiries, use it.
While you’re waiting, you can also find food assistance through local food banks, pantries, and charities. These resources can provide immediate help. Just because your application says “In Progress” doesn’t mean you can’t get help now. These places will help while you’re waiting.
Conclusion
So, if your EBT application says “In Progress,” try not to panic! It’s usually a sign that the agency is carefully reviewing your information. While it can be frustrating to wait, there are often valid reasons for the delay. By keeping an eye on your mail, gathering your documents, and contacting the agency if needed, you can increase your chances of getting your benefits as quickly as possible. Remember, if you need help now, food banks and other local charities can provide assistance while you wait for a decision on your EBT application.