Electronic benefits transfer (EBT) cards are how the government provides Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) food benefits to those who qualify for food assistance.

EBT cards work like a prepaid debit card and have many of the same protections. But they also come with some risk just like other payment methods.

Here are some tips to keep your EBT card and your SNAP benefit dollars safe.

Three ways to avoid EBT card scams

  1. Don't share your secret personal identification number (PIN) with anyone. Only share with household members or someone you've identified as a trusted caregiver that does your grocery shopping for you.
  2. Change your PIN regularly to protect your benefit dollars. If EBT card scammers have stolen your account information and PIN, they will not be able to use that information to make purchases if the PIN is changed again.
  3. Check your EBT account balance regularly to make sure there are no unauthorized charges. In one Ohio county, there was a huge increase in EBT card fraud, with more than 100 cases of card skimming in which $130,000 worth of SNAP benefits were stolen from people's accounts. You can be proactive by checking to see if someone else has used your EBT card.

Steps you can take if your SNAP benefits are stolen from your EBT card

  1. Change your pin right away. If you do see charges that you or a member of your household didn't make, your first step is to change your PIN right away. This will keep scammers from using your card again.
  2. Report the SNAP fraud. Once you've done that, contact your local SNAP office to report the fraud.

What if I experience discrimination while using my SNAP EBT card?

When shopping with your EBT card, you have the right to be treated like any other customer. Unfortunately, EBT card discrimination does happen.

If you feel you have been treated differently by a cashier, manager, or other shoppers for using your SNAP EBT card at a store, you can and should file a complaint with the Department of Agriculture (USDA).

Where can I learn more about EBT cards?

You can find out more about SNAP benefits, including information on how to apply right here on this website. Click here and simply start by entering your ZIP code. If you're still unsure about what to do, there may be an NCOA Benefits Enrollment Center near you. 

Benefits Enrollment Centers (BECs) are community organizations that can help you find and enroll in all the benefits programs you may qualify for. They are free and 100% private. If you wanted to get started, just reach out to your nearest BEC and make an appointment to get help applying.