How Can I Keep My EBT Card Secure?

Phishing and spam attacks are on the rise in Maryland, targeting EBT users with increasing sophistication. These scams can take many forms, from deceptive text messages to physical tampering with card readers. Knowing how to spot these threats is the first line of defense in protecting your benefits.

How EBT Benefits Are Stolen

Thieves use several common tactics to gain unauthorized access to EBT accounts. One popular method is phishing, where fraudulent text messages or robocalls claim your card is locked. These scams direct you to a fake phone number, tricking you into revealing your card number and PIN.

Another widespread threat is skimming. Criminals attach hidden devices to ATM or store card readers to copy your card’s information and record your PIN as you type it, allowing them to drain your account later.

What To Do If Your Benefits Are Stolen

If you discover that your benefits have been stolen, you must act quickly to report the theft. Maryland reimburses SNAP and EBT Cash benefits that are lost to theft. To get your benefits replaced, you must report the fraud and file a formal claim.

1. First, call the EBT customer service line at 1-800-997-2222 to report the theft, cancel your card, and request a new one.

2. Next, submit the online EBT Stolen Benefits Attestation Claim Form. You can also file a claim in person, and for assistance, you can call 1-833-330-7328.

To have your claim approved, you must attest that the benefits were stolen from your account. It is helpful to keep any app screenshots or receipts that can support your claim. Once approved, replacement benefits are typically issued within ten days.

Other Common Issues with EBT Cards and How to Resolve Them

Aside from security threats, you might run into other frustrating issues with your EBT card. From a damaged magnetic stripe to a forgotten PIN, knowing the right steps to take can resolve these problems quickly and get you back to shopping.

My Card Is Damaged Or Unreadable

A common reason for a “card read error” at a checkout terminal or ATM is simple wear and tear. Over time, the magnetic stripe or chip can get bent, cracked, or worn out, preventing machines from reading your card information correctly.

• Call the Maryland EBT Customer Service line at 1-800-997-2222 to request a free replacement card.

• While you wait for the new card to arrive, you can ask your local Department of Social Services office if an emergency pick-up card is available.

• Protect your replacement card by keeping it in a sleeve and away from heat or magnets.

I Forgot My PIN Or My Card Is Locked

For your protection, your EBT card will automatically lock if the wrong PIN is entered four times in a row. Many people simply forget their PIN or mix it up with other passwords, leading to a temporarily frozen account.

• You can reset your PIN at any time by calling 1-800-997-2222 or by logging into the ConnectEBT portal.

• Choose a new four-digit PIN that is not your date of birth or another easy-to-guess sequence. It is best to memorize it rather than writing it down.

• If your card remains locked after the reset, wait 24 hours and try the transaction again.

My Benefits Haven’t Arrived On Time

Maryland issues SNAP benefits on a staggered schedule between the 4th and 23rd of each month, based on the first three letters of the head-of-household’s last name. A misunderstanding of this schedule, a public holiday, or a pending case review can all result in delayed funds.

• First, check the official benefit issuance calendar to confirm your correct deposit date.

• You can review your account balance on the ConnectEBT website, by calling the number on the back of your card, or by using a free app like Benny.

• If your benefits are still missing after the scheduled date, log in to your myMDTHINK account to see if any documents are overdue, then call your local Department of Social Services to clear any holds on your case.