How Can I Keep My EBT Card Secure?

As phishing and spam attacks increase across Wyoming, recognizing the forms fraud can take is the first step toward protection. Understanding these methods helps you act quickly to secure your benefits if they are compromised.

How EBT Benefits Are Stolen

Thieves use card-skimming devices on checkout PIN pads to clone cards. They also send fraudulent texts or calls asking for your card number and PIN, and create fake websites that mimic the official portal for an EBT balance check in Wyoming. State agencies never request this private information.

What To Do If Your Benefits Are Stolen

Immediately call EBT Customer Service at 877-290-9401 to report theft. SNAP benefits stolen between October 1, 2022, and December 20, 2024, may be replaced if reported within 30 days. This federal reimbursement program ends on December 21, 2024, and thefts after that date are not covered. You should still report any stolen EBT Cash benefits to your local DFS office.

Other Common Issues with EBT Cards and How to Resolve Them

Beyond security threats, everyday issues can disrupt access to your benefits. Knowing how to handle a declined card, forgotten PIN, or physical damage can resolve problems quickly and without stress.

Card Declined While Traveling

A fraud-prevention system automatically blocks Wyoming EBT cards from being used in several states, including California, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, and Georgia. If you attempt a purchase there, the terminal will show a “card not accepted” message.

This block is a blanket security rule and does not mean there is an issue with your personal account.

• Before or during your trip, call the EBT help line at 877-290-9401 and ask for a temporary travel override. You can find more information on the state's benefits page.

• Be prepared to verify your identity with your date of birth and the last four digits of your Social Security Number.

• Overrides are typically granted for the specific dates you provide.

Wrong or Forgotten PIN

Entering an incorrect PIN three to five times consecutively will lock your EBT card for the rest of the day. This is an anti-fraud feature that prevents others from guessing your code.

If you have forgotten your PIN, you will not be able to complete an EBT balance check in Wyoming at a store terminal. Before you head out, you can check your EBT balance using the Benny app on your phone.

• The lock automatically resets after midnight, so you can simply wait until the next day to try again.

• If you have forgotten your PIN, call 877-290-9401 or log in to the ebtEDGE portal to create a new one.

• When creating a new PIN, avoid easily guessed numbers like your birth year or address.

Damaged or Demagnetized Card

A card with a worn magnetic stripe or a cracked chip may not be recognized by store readers. This damage can happen from normal friction in a wallet, bending, or exposure to heat.

If your card is physically damaged, you can still check your Wyoming EBT balance online or by calling the customer service number. This helps you confirm your funds are still available while you wait for a replacement.

• If the magnetic stripe fails, try using the chip reader, as many retailers have dual-reader machines.

• Sometimes, gently cleaning the stripe with a microfiber cloth can remove grime that causes reading errors.

• You can request a free replacement card by calling 877-290-9401 or visiting your local Department of Family Services (DFS) office. The new card usually arrives within seven business days, and your benefits will remain in your account.