How Can I Keep My EBT Card Secure?

Phishing and spam attacks are becoming more common across California. These scams can appear as texts, calls, or even physical devices at payment terminals. Understanding the different ways thieves operate is the first step toward protecting your benefits and taking swift action if they are compromised.

How EBT Benefits Are Stolen

Thieves use both physical and digital tactics to steal EBT funds. A common physical method involves skimmers, which are devices placed over card readers to copy your card's magnetic stripe data. Shimmers are a stealthier version, hidden inside the chip reader slot itself. These devices are often hard to spot but may feel loose or look mismatched from the machine.

Digitally, you might receive fraudulent texts or calls, a practice known as smishing. These messages often create a false sense of urgency, claiming your account is locked and directing you to a fake website or helpline to steal your card number and PIN. Once thieves have your information, they can create a cloned card or add it to a mobile wallet to spend your funds.

What To Do If Your Benefits Are Stolen

If you are a victim of electronic theft, you may be able to have your benefits replaced. CalFresh food benefits stolen electronically on or after October 1, 2022, can be reimbursed. There is no limit on the number of CalFresh replacements. CalWORKs EBT Cash benefits can also be replaced if stolen electronically, but only once in any 36-month period.

To file a claim for stolen benefits, you must take the following steps:

1. Report the theft within 10 days by calling the EBT customer service line at 877-328-9677.

2. Submit Form EBT-2259 to your county office within 90 days of the incident. You can find more information on the official EBT website.

3. Keep your physical EBT card in your possession, as you will need it to prove the theft was electronic and not due to a lost card.

Other Common Issues with EBT Cards and How to Resolve Them

Beyond security threats, everyday issues can sometimes prevent you from using your EBT card. Knowing the common reasons for a declined transaction or a locked PIN, and how to fix them, can help you access your benefits without unnecessary delays.

Transaction Declined At Checkout

A point-of-sale terminal might reject your purchase even if you have funds available. This can happen for several reasons, such as the store not being authorized for SNAP purchases, a damaged magnetic stripe or chip on your card, or a poor connection at the terminal.

It could also be a simple error, like entering the wrong PIN or trying to spend more than your available balance. Before shopping, it's always a good idea to confirm your EBT balance.

• First, check your balance by calling 1-877-328-9677, looking at your last receipt, logging in at the official EBT portal, or opening the Benny mobile app for a real-time total.

• If your balance is sufficient, try the card again. Make sure to press CLEAR on the keypad before re-entering your PIN.

• If the card looks scratched or damaged, call the EBT Customer Service line to request a replacement, which typically arrives in 5-7 business days.

• Ask the clerk if the store’s system is offline. If it is, you may need to wait, use another payment method, or shop at a different store.

PIN Is Locked Or Forgotten

For security, your EBT card will automatically lock if the wrong PIN is entered four times in a row. This can happen easily, whether from a simple memory lapse or a mistaken key entry.

• Call EBT Customer Service at 1-877-328-9677 and choose the PIN option from the menu. You will need to provide your card number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security Number to verify your identity.

• Once confirmed, you can choose a new 4-digit PIN. Keep it private and never write it on the card itself.

• You can also change your PIN in person at a county office or at certain ATMs. You can find a surcharge-free machine using the ATM locator.

Card Is Expired Or Damaged

California EBT cards expire approximately every four years, though they may need to be replaced sooner if they become warped or too worn to be read by terminals. The expiration month and year are printed on the front of the card.

If a store terminal displays a "cannot read card" message or the date has passed, you will need a new one.

• Call EBT Customer Service to order a free replacement card. Your benefits schedule will not be affected.

• Confirm your current mailing address with the representative. If you need the card sooner than the standard 5-7 business days for mail delivery, ask your county worker about same-day emergency issuance at a local office.

• Once your new card arrives and is activated, destroy the old one.