How Can I Keep My EBT Card Secure?

Phishing and spam attacks are becoming more common in Vermont. These scams appear in many forms, from text messages to altered payment machines. Understanding how thieves operate is the first step toward protecting your benefits.

How EBT Benefits Are Stolen

Card skimming is a primary threat. Thieves place devices on ATM or point-of-sale machines to steal card data. Always inspect terminals for mismatched or loose parts, cover the keypad when entering your PIN, and use indoor ATMs when possible.

Scammers also use fraudulent texts and emails, known as smishing, claiming your card is locked to trick you into clicking a malicious link. Others may call or use social media, posing as state officials to get your card number and PIN. Remember that government agencies will never ask for your card details or PIN through text, email, or social media.

What To Do If Your Benefits Are Stolen

If you are a victim of electronic theft, you may be able to have your 3SquaresVT (SNAP) benefits replaced. This applies to benefits stolen between October 1, 2022, and December 20, 2024. Vermont can replace up to the amount lost or two months of your household's benefit, whichever is less, with a maximum of two replacements per federal fiscal year.

If you suspect your benefits have been stolen, you must report it.

1. Report the theft to the Economic Services Division within 30 days.

2. Submit a completed Form 271 within 10 days of your report.

The ability to replace benefits comes from a temporary federal authority that is set to expire at the end of the 2024 federal fiscal year unless Congress acts to extend it. Benefits from other programs, like Reach Up (TANF) EBT Cash, are not covered by this federal rule and cannot be replaced if stolen.

Other Common Issues with EBT Cards and How to Resolve Them

Beyond security threats, you might face other common issues with your EBT card. Knowing the typical reasons for these problems and the steps to fix them can help you access your benefits without unnecessary delays or stress.

Card Will Not Swipe, Insert, or Tap

A card that fails at the checkout terminal often has physical damage. The magnetic stripe can get scratched, or the chip can bend or crack from being kept loose in a wallet. Sometimes, the problem is not your card but the retailer’s terminal, which may be configured in a way that does not read your card's contact.

• First, try cleaning the magnetic stripe and chip with a soft cloth. If you see obvious damage, call Vermont EBT Customer Service at 1-800-914-8605 to request a free replacement.

• Attempt to use the card in another checkout lane or at an ATM with the QUEST® logo. If it works there, the original store’s reader is likely at fault.

• If you cannot buy groceries while waiting for a new card, you can request an emergency replacement at a DCF district office.

Invalid, Forgotten, or Blocked PIN

Every purchase or cash withdrawal requires your four-digit Personal Identification Number (PIN) for authorization. Entering the wrong PIN too many times will temporarily block the card as a security measure to prevent unauthorized use.

This usually happens from simple mis-keyed numbers, sharing the PIN with someone, or forgetting to change the temporary PIN you received when the card was first issued.

• You can reset your PIN by calling the EBT interactive voice system at 1-800-914-8605 and choosing the PIN option, or by speaking with an agent after confirming your identity.

• If your card is locked from too many incorrect attempts, you must wait 24 hours before you can create a new PIN.

• Once you have a new PIN, memorize it and destroy any written copies. Always store your PIN separately from your EBT card.

Benefits Not Showing on the Expected Date

In Vermont, benefits are deposited according to a schedule based on the last digit of your Social Security number. Funds may also be delayed if you missed an interim report or recertification deadline, as benefits can be paused until the required paperwork is processed. Federal holidays can also cause a slight delay, with funds posting later in the morning instead of overnight.

• Before assuming your funds are late, confirm your deposit day on the state schedule or check your balance with an app like Benny.

• You can also check your balance on the ebtEDGE website or by calling the EBT hotline.

• If no benefits have been posted, contact the Economic Services Division at 1-800-479-6151 to verify that your case is active and that all documents for 3SquaresVT were received.