How Can I Keep My EBT Card Secure?

Phishing and spam attacks are becoming more common across Michigan, with scammers frequently targeting EBT users. These fraudulent attempts can appear in many different forms, from text messages to physical devices on card readers. Knowing what to look for is the best way to protect your benefits and take action on time.

How EBT Benefits Are Stolen

Thieves use several sophisticated methods to gain access to your benefits, making it important to recognize the signs of these common scams.

Skimming is a fast-growing threat where criminals attach devices to card readers at places like self-checkouts or ATMs. These devices steal your card's magnetic stripe data and your PIN, often using a hidden camera or fake keypad. Always inspect card readers for loose parts and cover the keypad when entering your PIN.

You might also receive fraudulent text messages or phone calls, a practice known as smishing or voice phishing. These messages often create a false sense of urgency, claiming your card is locked or you have extra benefits, and direct you to fake websites to steal your card number and PIN. Legitimate notices from MDHHS will only arrive through MI Bridges secure mail or paper mail.

Other scams include social media offers to "double" benefits or QR codes posted in stores, which all lead to data theft. Thieves often test stolen card information with small, one-cent transactions before draining the full balance.

What To Do If Your Benefits Are Stolen

If you notice any unfamiliar charges on your account, especially small test amounts from out of state, you must act immediately. Taking the right steps quickly can help secure your account and begin the recovery process.

Follow these steps to report the theft:

1. Change your PIN right away.

2. Call the Bridge Card hotline at 888-678-8914 to freeze your card.

3. File a theft report with your local MDHHS office. Having screenshots or receipts can help speed up the review.

Michigan can replace some stolen benefits under a federal program. For SNAP benefits stolen through skimming, phishing, or similar fraud between October 1, 2022, and December 20, 2024, you may be reimbursed. The state will restore the amount stolen or up to two months of your household's benefits, whichever is less. This replacement is limited to two times per federal fiscal year and requires you to file an MDHHS replacement form for verification.

This federal authority only covers SNAP benefits. Pandemic-EBT, TANF cash benefits, and any theft after December 20, 2024, are not eligible for reimbursement unless the program is renewed by Congress. Therefore, prevention is the only way to protect those funds.

Other Common Issues with EBT Cards and How to Resolve Them

Beyond security threats, you might encounter other issues with your Bridge Card. Understanding how to handle common problems like a locked card or missing benefits can help you restore access to your funds quickly and efficiently.

My Card Is Locked

If the Michigan Bridge Card system detects multiple incorrect PIN attempts or a long period of inactivity, it automatically locks the card to prevent potential fraud. This is a standard security measure to protect your account.

• Call the MDHHS EBT Customer Service line at 888-678-8914 and follow the prompts to reset or change your PIN.

• Be prepared with your card number, Social Security Number, and date of birth.

• If you cannot reset your PIN over the phone, ask to speak with a live agent or visit your local MDHHS office to have the lock removed.

My Card Is Damaged or Won’t Scan

Everyday wear and tear, such as bending, scratching the magnetic stripe, or exposure to heat, can prevent a retailer’s terminal from reading your card. You may see "Card read error" or similar messages.

• First, try wiping the stripe or chip with a soft cloth and using a different card reader.

• If the card still doesn’t work, call 888-678-8914 to report it. MDHHS will mail a replacement within 5–7 business days, and your balances will transfer automatically.

• While you wait for the new card, you can ask the customer service representative for your current balance or check it using an online tool.

My Benefits Didn’t Arrive on Deposit Day

Michigan requires households to complete a yearly redetermination to verify current income, expenses, and household size. If this form is not returned on time or is missing required documents, MDHHS will pause benefit issuance until the case is updated.

• Check the MI Bridges portal for any notices, upload necessary documents, or complete the redetermination form online.

• If the portal indicates that verifications are needed, submit your paystubs, utility bills, or other requested files right away. It is a good idea to confirm receipt with your caseworker.

• Once MDHHS processes the new information, any held benefits are usually released overnight.

Helpful Resources to Bookmark

• MDHHS Bridge Card: Official information and customer service for Michigan EBT.

• MI Bridges Portal: Apply for benefits, report changes, and read notices online.

• Benny: A free mobile app to check your real-time EBT balance and get cashback.

• Michigan ConnectEBT: Secure web access for your balance and transaction history.

• MoneyPass ATM Locator: Find surcharge-free ATMs that accept the Bridge Card.