How Can I Keep My EBT Card Secure?

Phishing and spam attacks are on the rise across North Dakota, targeting residents with increasingly deceptive messages. These scams can take many forms, from fake text messages to spoofed government websites. Knowing how to spot these fraudulent attempts is the first step in protecting your benefits from theft.

How EBT Benefits Are Stolen

Thieves use several sophisticated methods to gain access to EBT funds. It is important to recognize the signs of these common scams.

One popular technique is card skimming. Criminals attach hidden devices to legitimate card-reading terminals at stores, which secretly capture your card's magnetic stripe data. They then clone your card and can drain the account from a different location, often right after benefits are deposited.

Phishing attacks are also widespread. You might receive a text message or robocall with an urgent warning, like "Your EBT card is locked." These messages direct you to a fake phone number or website designed to trick you into revealing your card number and PIN.

Finally, be wary of spoofed websites and social media ads. These fake pages often mimic official government branding to harvest your credentials when you try to log in.

What To Do If Your Benefits Are Stolen

If you suspect your card has been compromised or benefits have been stolen, you must report the fraud immediately. Taking quick action is the only way to begin the process of recovering stolen SNAP funds.

Follow these steps to report the theft:

1. Call 800-630-4655 to cancel the compromised card and request a new one. Any remaining balance that was not stolen will transfer to the new card.

2. Submit a written fraud report using Form SFN 270 within ten days of discovering the loss.

North Dakota may replace stolen SNAP benefits for thefts that occurred on or after October 1, 2022. To be eligible, you must report the loss within ten days, submit the signed form, and have not already received two replacements in the current federal fiscal year. Reimbursement is limited to either the amount stolen or two months of your household's regular benefit amount, whichever is less. All replacement requests must be received by June 30, 2025.

Currently, federal rules only permit the replacement of SNAP benefits. Stolen funds from other programs delivered on your EBT card, like TANF EBT Cash, cannot be replaced. The authority for SNAP replacements may also expire after September 30, 2025, if not renewed by Congress.

Other Common Issues with EBT Cards and How to Resolve Them

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

Card Is Declined or Will Not Swipe

A declined transaction can happen for several reasons. The card’s magnetic stripe or chip might be worn out, or the store's payment terminal could be offline. It's also possible your balance is too low for the purchase, or you have blocked out-of-state transactions while traveling.

• Ask the cashier to re-swipe the card or manually key in the number. If that fails, try a different register.

• Check your balance right away. You can use your last receipt, call 1-800-630-4655, log in to the ebtEDGE website, or use the Benny mobile app.

• If the card is damaged, request a free replacement through the ebtEDGE mobile app, the ebtEDGE website, or by calling the FIS helpline at 1-800-630-4655. A new card should arrive by mail in about seven business days.

• Before you travel, log in to the cardholder portal or call the helpline to unblock out-of-state purchases.

Forgotten or Locked PIN

For security, your EBT card will automatically lock if a wrong PIN is entered three times in a row. This feature protects your account from unauthorized use but can be inconvenient if you simply forgot your number.

• Call the FIS customer service line at 1-800-630-4655 and follow the prompts to reset your PIN. You will need to verify your card number and other personal details.

• If you have your card with you, you can also change your PIN using the ebtEDGE mobile app or website.

• Choose a new four-digit PIN that is easy for you to remember but difficult for others to guess. Changing it from time to time is a good security practice.

Card Is Lost, Stolen, or Damaged

EBT cards can get lost during a move, stolen, or simply stop working due to everyday wear and tear. Accidental demagnetization from being near phones or magnets can also damage the card and make it unusable.

• Report a lost, stolen, or damaged card immediately to protect your remaining benefits. You can freeze or cancel the card through the cardholder portal, the ebtEDGE app, or by calling 1-800-630-4655.

• You can order a replacement card during the same call or online session. It will be mailed to the address on file.

• If you have recently moved, update your address through the North Dakota Self-Service Portal to make sure your new card arrives at the correct location.

Handy Bookmarks

• North Dakota EBT Page: Find official information, forms, and answers to frequently asked questions.

• ebtEDGE Cardholder Portal: Activate your card, view your balance, or freeze and replace a lost card.

• Benny: Use this free mobile app for real-time balance checks and transaction alerts.

• MoneyPass ATM Locator: Find surcharge-free ATMs across the state.

• North Dakota Self-Service Portal: Apply for benefits, complete reviews, and update your contact information.