How Can I Keep My EBT Card Secure?

Phishing and card skimming attacks are on the rise, targeting EBT users across the state. Understanding the different forms these scams can take is the first step toward protecting your benefits and taking swift action if you become a victim.

Common Methods of EBT Theft

Thieves use card skimmers on checkout terminals to steal card data and create clones. They also employ phishing scams, sending fake texts or calls to trick you into revealing your card number and PIN. A regular EBT balance check in Alaska helps spot fraud early.

Reporting Theft and Seeking Replacement

If you check Alaska EBT balance and find suspicious activity, report it immediately. A federal program allowed for the replacement of SNAP benefits stolen electronically between October 2022 and December 20, 2024. That authority has now expired, and thefts after that date cannot be reimbursed. While you should still check EBT balance in Alaska for other cash benefits, this program never covered them.

Other Common Issues with EBT Cards and How to Resolve Them

Beyond security threats, everyday issues can disrupt access to your benefits. Here are three common problems with EBT cards and straightforward steps you can take to resolve them quickly.

Card Declined at the Checkout

A declined transaction at the register can be frustrating. Often, the problem is simple: the card’s magnetic stripe is worn, the chip is dirty, or the store isn't set up for EBT food purchases. More information is available on the official Quest Card website.

• Clean the chip with a soft cloth and try again. If the stripe is visibly scratched, ask the cashier if they can manually enter your 16-digit card number.

• If the card is unreadable, call Quest Customer Service at 888-997-8111 to request a free replacement. It should arrive at the address on file with the Division of Public Assistance (DPA) within 3–5 business days.

Forgotten or Locked PIN

Entering the wrong PIN four times in a row will lock your card for security purposes. This can happen if you forget the number, a family member tries to guess it, or even if a child accidentally presses keys at the terminal. An EBT balance check in Alaska will not work until the PIN is reset.

• Call Quest Customer Service and press “4” for PIN services. You will need your card number, date of birth, and Social Security Number to choose a new PIN.

• Log in to your account through the Alaska Quest page and follow the instructions to change your PIN.

• Visit a local DPA office in Anchorage, Fairbanks, or Juneau with a photo ID, where staff can help you reset your PIN on the spot.

Benefits Not Showing Up on the Expected Issue Date

Benefits in Alaska are loaded on specific days of the month based on your Social Security Number. If you see a zero EBT balance on your expected issuance day, it often signals a paperwork hold on your account.

This is typically caused by a missed annual recertification or the new six-month Interim Report not being returned to the DPA. This one-page form confirms any household changes.

• Return the Interim Report within ten days by email, fax, or in person. Keep a time-stamped copy for your records. The SNAP/Food Stamps resource page has more details on this process.

• Call your local DPA eligibility worker to confirm all your verification documents, like income proofs and shelter costs, have been received and logged.

• You can check EBT balance in Alaska daily to see when the funds post. Use the free Benny mobile app, call Quest Customer Service, or check your latest grocery receipt.