How Can I Keep My EBT Card Secure?

Phishing and spam attacks are on the rise across Minnesota, targeting unsuspecting residents. These scams can take many forms, from deceptive text messages to sophisticated card-skimming devices. Knowing how to spot these threats is the best way to protect your benefits and act quickly if fraud occurs.

How EBT Benefits Are Stolen

Thieves use several common tactics to gain access to EBT funds. One popular method is card skimming, where a device is placed over a store's card reader to secretly copy your card's magnetic stripe data and PIN. Criminals then use this information to create a clone of your card and drain the account.

You might also receive fraudulent texts, calls, or emails designed to trick you. These messages often look like official government notices or delivery alerts, directing you to fake websites that steal your login information. Other scams involve social media posts offering to double your benefits in exchange for your card details.

What To Do If Your Benefits Are Stolen

If you discover that your benefits have been stolen, it is important to report the theft immediately. Minnesota can replace SNAP benefits that were stolen electronically through methods like skimming or phishing. This replacement is available for thefts that occurred between October 1, 2022, and December 20, 2024. To receive a replacement, you must complete the following steps:

1. Report the theft to your county worker within 30 business days of discovering it.

2. Submit the required state claim form, which can be obtained from your county office, within 10 additional business days.

3. Request and obtain a new EBT card.

After you file a claim, the state has up to 10 business days to validate it and issue the replacement benefits. However, the federal authority for these replacements expires on December 21, 2024. Thefts occurring on or after this date are not currently eligible for reimbursement based on the federal replacement plan.

The replacement rules for EBT Cash programs like MFIP are different. Federal law does not cover the replacement of electronically stolen cash benefits. Minnesota will only replace these funds if the physical EBT card itself is lost or stolen, not when funds are taken through skimming or other electronic fraud. You should still report any theft to your county office and get a new card, but reimbursement is not guaranteed.

Other Common Issues with EBT Cards and How to Resolve Them

Beyond security threats, you might run into other common problems with your EBT card. From a declined transaction to a forgotten PIN, knowing the right steps to take can help you resolve these issues quickly and access your benefits without delay.

Purchase Or Cash Transaction Is Declined

A “Transaction Not Approved” message can be frustrating when you know there are funds in your account. This can happen for several reasons, such as entering the wrong PIN or the keypad timing out. It might also occur if you try to buy a non-SNAP-eligible item with your food benefits.

Other potential causes include the store’s payment system being temporarily down or not set up for SNAP. Your card may also be frozen if you have enabled the lock feature through the ebtEDGE security feature.

• Re-enter your PIN carefully. Four incorrect attempts will lock your card until the next day.

• Ask the cashier to process food and EBT Cash portions as separate transactions.

• If the card is frozen, use the ebtEDGE mobile app or website to unlock it, or call Minnesota EBT Customer Service at 888-997-2227.

Forgotten PIN Or Locked Card

Forgetting your PIN is common, especially if you do not use your card often. Entering an incorrect PIN four times in a single day will automatically lock the card for security, preventing access until after midnight.

• Call 888-997-2227 and follow the automated prompts to set a new four-digit PIN. You will need your card number and date of birth.

• You can also change your PIN through the ebtEDGE app or website.

• Consider changing your PIN every few months to keep it secure and easy to remember.

Damaged Or Unreadable Card

Physical damage from daily use, heat exposure, or bending can make an EBT card unreadable. If the magnetic stripe is scratched or the chip is malfunctioning, retailers' card readers will not be able to process it.

• Request a replacement by calling 888-997-2227. According to Minnesota statutes, a $2 replacement fee may be charged.

• Confirm your mailing address with the agent to receive the new card, which typically arrives in 5-7 business days.

• If the damage creates a hardship, ask your county agency about getting an emergency voucher for food purchases while you wait.

Handy Bookmarks

• Minnesota EBT Card information page – program rules, ebtEDGE instructions, and customer-service phone number.

• ebtEDGE portal – view balances, freeze/unfreeze cards, and change your PIN.

• Benny – independent app that tracks EBT balances and posts Minnesota deposit schedules.

• MoneyPass ATM locator – find surcharge-free cash machines statewide.

• Minnesota SNAP program main page – eligibility, online application, and hotline numbers.