How Can I Keep My EBT Card Secure?

With phishing and spam attacks on the rise, it is important to recognize the different forms these scams can take. Knowing the signs of fraud helps you protect your benefits and take the right steps quickly if you become a victim.

How EBT Benefits Are Stolen

Benefit theft occurs through card skimming, where illegal devices on readers copy your data. Phishing is also common, using fake texts or emails to trick you into sharing your card number and PIN. These scams may lead to fraudulent sites that offer to check EBT balance in Utah but only steal your information.

What To Do If Your Benefits Are Stolen

You can replace benefits stolen via skimming or phishing from October 1, 2022, to September 30, 2024. Report the theft to Workforce Services within 30 days, change your PIN, and request a new card. Replacements for SNAP or EBT Cash are limited to two per fiscal year and do not cover losses from sharing your card.

Other Common Issues with EBT Cards and How to Resolve Them

Beyond security threats, everyday issues can disrupt access to your benefits. Here’s a look at some common problems with EBT cards and the steps you can take to resolve them quickly.

Card Is Worn, Bent, or Unreadable

The magnetic stripe or embedded chip on your Horizon card can stop working after repeated swiping, exposure to heat, or physical damage, making it unreadable at checkout.

While waiting for a replacement, you can still monitor your funds. A quick way to check Utah EBT balance is online or with an app, which helps you keep track of your account.

• Call the Horizon Card Helpdesk at 800-997-4444 to request a new card.

• Confirm your mailing address. Your new card should arrive within 7–10 business days.

• You can monitor your balance using the ConnectEBT website, its mobile app, or the Benny app while you wait.

Forgotten or Locked PIN

Entering an incorrect PIN four consecutive times will lock your card as a security measure. Many people also forget their PIN after long periods between purchases.

After you reset it, performing an EBT balance check in Utah is a good way to confirm your card is active again before you shop.

• Reset your PIN by calling the automated service at 800-997-4444. You will need to provide your date of birth and Social Security number to verify your identity.

• You can also reset your PIN through the ConnectEBT website or its mobile app.

• Create a new four-digit PIN that is difficult to guess and memorize it instead of writing it on the card.

Purchase Declined at the Store

A transaction can be denied even when you think you have money on the card. This may happen because your monthly benefits have not been deposited yet. Benefits are loaded on the 5th, 11th, or 15th of the month, based on the first letter of your last name. Another reason is trying to buy non-SNAP-eligible items, such as toiletries, with your food benefits.

To avoid surprises, it's wise to check EBT balance in Utah before heading to the checkout line.

• Check your exact balance by calling 800-997-4444, looking at your last receipt, or logging into ConnectEBT.com.

• Ring up SNAP-eligible and non-eligible items in separate transactions.

• If funds are low, wait until your next issuance date or reduce the total purchase amount.