EBT Card Lost or Stolen
If your EBT card is lost, stolen, or benefits were skimmed, ACT NOW. This guide covers replacement + fraud reporting + reimbursement under federal law PL 117-103 Section 510.
1. Block the card immediately
Call state customer service, usually available 24/7. Number is on:
- Back of EBT card (if you still have it)
- State human services website
- Official state app (most have a "block card" option)
- Call 211 — operator can direct you to your state number
2. Request a replacement card
- After blocking, request replacement on same call or online portal
- Time: 5-7 business days by mail in most states
- Cost: Free in most states (first or second replacement). Some charge $5-10 after several replacements
- Urgent cases: ask about in-person pickup at human services office
3. Report fraud (if applicable)
If benefits were stolen — skimming, phishing, physical theft — you MUST report fraud to be eligible for reimbursement. Report:
- To state SNAP/EBT agency (form / phone / portal)
- To local police (some states require police report)
- To USDA OIG if suspect federal fraud: usda.gov/oig/hotline
4. Reimbursement of stolen benefits (PL 117-103 § 510)
Under federal law passed March 2022, USDA FNS reimburses electronically stolen SNAP benefits.
| Covered | NOT covered |
|---|---|
| Card theft | Wallet loss / no fraud |
| Skimming at ATMs / readers | Authorized purchases regretted |
| Phishing (fake messages / calls) | ATM errors (use dispute) |
| Card cloning (physical) | — |
Limited to 2 reimbursements per household per fiscal year. Fill out state agency reimbursement form after reporting fraud.
5. How to prevent skimming
- Inspect the reader — wiggle the reader. Skimmers are often loose overlays that come off.
- Cover PIN entry — use other hand to cover keypad. Hidden cameras record PIN entry.
- Use well-lit ATMs — avoid ATMs at remote gas stations or convenience stores with poor security
- Change PIN regularly — at least every 3-6 months. After travel. After any unusual purchase.
- Check balance often — use official state app, not third-party apps
- Enable transaction alerts — some states offer SMS alerts for charges. Opt in if available.
6. Common phishing scams
Scammers pose as EBT agencies via SMS / calls / emails. Fraud red flags:
- "Your card is blocked — call XXX-XXX to reactivate"
- "We suspect fraud — verify PIN with us"
- "You\u0027re eligible for extra funds — click link to claim"
NEVER give PIN by phone. State agencies NEVER ask for PIN — only the client knows it. If you receive these messages, report to state and block the sender.
Related resources
Last updated 2026-04-30. Feed America Inc. (EIN 92-1761881).