How Can I Keep My EBT Card Secure?

Phishing and spam attacks are on the rise, targeting EBT recipients with deceptive texts and calls. Knowing the different forms these scams can take is the first step toward protecting your benefits and taking action on time.

How Are EBT Benefits Stolen?

Thieves use card skimmers on payment terminals to clone your card's magnetic stripe. They also use phishing texts and spam calls to trick you into revealing your card number and PIN with false, urgent claims. A regular EBT balance check in Arkansas helps you spot unauthorized transactions.

What To Do If Your Benefits Are Stolen

Immediately call the number on your card to report fraud and change your PIN. A temporary program replaces SNAP benefits stolen via cloning or skimming between October 1, 2022, and December 20, 2024. You must file a stolen benefits form by January 20, 2025. Stolen EBT Cash benefits cannot be replaced.

Other Common Issues with EBT Cards and How to Resolve Them

Beyond security threats, everyday issues can prevent you from using your EBT card. Here are three common problems you might face and the simple steps to resolve them quickly.

Benefits Not Yet Available or Balance Too Low

A transaction might be declined if your monthly benefits have not been deposited yet or if your balance is too low. Deposits are staggered throughout the first days of the month based on your case number, so it is helpful to know your deposit date. A quick EBT balance check in Arkansas can confirm if funds are available before you shop.

• Check your balance first. The fastest ways are with the Benny app, by calling the state’s Automated Response Unit (ARU) at 1-800-997-9999, or through your online Access Arkansas account.

• Review the monthly issuance calendar from your approval notice to see your specific deposit dates.

• If benefits are missing past your deposit date, contact your local Department of Human Services (DHS) office to confirm your recertification paperwork is up to date.

Wrong PIN or PIN Lockout

Entering an incorrect PIN four times in a row will lock your card for 24 hours as a security measure. You will not be able to check Arkansas EBT balance or make purchases during this time. This prevents anyone from guessing your PIN and accessing your benefits.

• If you have forgotten your PIN, you can change it immediately by calling the ARU at 1-800-997-9999 and following the prompts after verifying your identity.

• If you simply mistyped the number, wait until the next calendar day for the card to automatically unlock.

• Choose a PIN that is difficult to guess and memorize it. Benefits lost because someone used your correct PIN will not be replaced.

Card or Point-of-Sale Malfunction

Sometimes the problem is not with your account but with the physical card or the store's equipment. A worn-out magnetic stripe or a damaged chip can cause reading errors. This can be frustrating, especially if you just performed a check EBT balance in Arkansas and know you have funds.

• First, try using your card at a different checkout lane or another store to see if the issue is with the retailer's equipment.

• Inspect your card for any cracks, bends, or other damage. If it looks worn out, call the EBT Help Desk at 1-800-997-9999 to request a replacement. New cards typically arrive within 3–5 business days.

• While you wait for a new card, some stores may be able to process a manual transaction if the card numbers are still readable. You will need to present a photo ID that matches the name on the card.