Pennsylvania EBT Customer Service: How to Get Help & Common Issues

SHARE

ON THIS PAGE

Handling your EBT benefits in Pennsylvania can be straightforward. This guide details how to get in touch with the state's EBT customer service and provides simple solutions for common problems, such as replacing a lost card, changing your PIN, or reporting potential fraud on your account.

How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Pennsylvania

There are several ways to contact Pennsylvania's EBT customer service for assistance.

Phone: The 24/7 EBT Recipient Hotline at 1-888-EBT-PENN (1-888-328-7366) handles card-specific issues like balance checks and lost cards. For general benefit questions, call the DHS Helpline at 1-800-692-7462 on weekdays from 8 AM to 5 PM. A TDD/TTY line is available at 1-800-451-5886.
Email: A direct customer service email address is not available. For assistance that requires written communication, it is best to call the helplines for guidance or send a letter to the mailing address.
Mail: For formal inquiries or to submit documents, you can write to the Department of Human Services at: Pennsylvania Department of Human Services, EBT Customer Service, P.O. Box 2675, Harrisburg, PA 17105-2675.
In-Person: You can manage your benefits by visiting your local County Assistance Office (CAO). Use the state's Find Your County Office tool to get the address. If you cannot access the internet, call the DHS Helpline at 1-800-692-7462 for directions to the nearest office.

Multi-Lingual Support

Pennsylvania's EBT Recipient Hotline provides interpreter services in numerous languages. Commonly requested languages include Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, and Russian, with additional options available upon request through a telephone interpretation service.

Track Your EBT Balance & Get Cash Back on SNAP

Download the app

Common EBT-Related Issues and How to Resolve Them

Dealing with your EBT card can sometimes involve a few hiccups. Pennsylvania EBT recipients most often call the 24-hour ACCESS customer service line when they face one of the five common problems below. For each issue, following the recommended steps can help protect your benefits and lead to the fastest resolution.

Lost or Stolen ACCESS Card

If you realize your card is missing, it is important to act immediately to prevent anyone else from using your benefits. Taking quick action protects your remaining balance.

Call 1-888-328-7366 right away. Use the automated menu option to report a lost or stolen card, which will instantly disable it.
When an agent is available, verify your identity with your card number, SSN, and date of birth, and confirm you want the old card deactivated.
Request a replacement card and confirm your current mailing address. A new card typically arrives in 7–10 business days.
Write down the confirmation number the agent provides in case you need to track the new card.
When the new card arrives, call the activation number on the sticker, create a new PIN, and securely destroy the old card.

Forgotten PIN or Locked Account

Forgetting your PIN or having your account locked after too many incorrect attempts is a common issue that can be fixed over the phone.

Dial 1-888-328-7366 and select the PIN-reset option from the menu. Have your card ready for the automated prompts.
Enter your card number and other requested identity details to unlock your account.
Select a new four-digit PIN. Avoid using birthdays, street numbers, or simple sequences like 1234.
To reduce fraud risk, consider changing your PIN monthly. This can be done by phone or through the ConnectEBT website or mobile app.
Test the new PIN at an ATM or store to confirm it works before you complete a transaction.

Deposits Missing or Balance Suddenly Shows $0

If your funds haven't appeared on the expected day, first check the official EBT deposit schedule to confirm your payment date. You can also see your real-time SNAP and EBT Cash balance using the myCOMPASS PA app or the free Benny app.

Call 1-888-328-7366 and choose the "balance" option to hear the official amount on record. Note any unexpected transactions the system reads.
If benefits are still missing, ask the agent if a system outage, holiday delay, or a hold on your case is the cause.
If the funds were issued but used for unfamiliar purchases, proceed with the fraud reporting steps below.
If a paperwork issue with DHS is the cause, contact your County Assistance Office immediately to provide any missing documents.

Card Declined or “Card Not Working” at Checkout

A declined card at checkout can be frustrating, but it may be a simple terminal error or an issue with the card itself that can be easily resolved.

First, try the transaction at a different register. Many errors are specific to a single payment terminal.
If the card is declined again, call 1-888-328-7366 for an automated balance check. If the balance is sufficient, stay on the line for an agent.
Ask the agent if the card is locked, expired, damaged, or not yet activated. The agent can help unlock, reactivate, or check the expiration date.
If the card is physically worn out or expired, request a free replacement and verify your mailing address.
Once the new card arrives, activate it and shred the old one.

Suspicious Transactions, Skimming, or Other Fraud

If you notice unauthorized charges, you must act fast to prevent further theft. Pennsylvania has introduced a new security feature allowing you to lock your card, which is a strong first line of defense.

Immediately call 1-888-328-7366, choose the "PIN change" option to create a new PIN, and then ask the agent to lock or replace the card.
Write down the date, time, and amount of every unauthorized transaction listed by the automated system.
Inform the agent that you suspect your card was skimmed or cloned and request a new card number.
You should also file a theft report with your County Assistance Office. Reporting helps DHS track fraud, though benefits stolen after December 20, 2024, are not currently replaceable.
For ongoing protection, keep your card digitally locked between shopping trips using the myCOMPASS PA or ConnectEBT app and change your PIN monthly.

Manage Your EBT Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny

Benny is a free app that lets you check your real-time EBT balance and earn cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and Kroger. To get started, link your EBT card. After you shop, scan your receipt with Benny to get cashback on SNAP-eligible items.

Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.

SHARE

Handling your EBT benefits in Pennsylvania can be straightforward. This guide details how to get in touch with the state's EBT customer service and provides simple solutions for common problems, such as replacing a lost card, changing your PIN, or reporting potential fraud on your account.

How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Pennsylvania

There are several ways to contact Pennsylvania's EBT customer service for assistance.

Phone: The 24/7 EBT Recipient Hotline at 1-888-EBT-PENN (1-888-328-7366) handles card-specific issues like balance checks and lost cards. For general benefit questions, call the DHS Helpline at 1-800-692-7462 on weekdays from 8 AM to 5 PM. A TDD/TTY line is available at 1-800-451-5886.
Email: A direct customer service email address is not available. For assistance that requires written communication, it is best to call the helplines for guidance or send a letter to the mailing address.
Mail: For formal inquiries or to submit documents, you can write to the Department of Human Services at: Pennsylvania Department of Human Services, EBT Customer Service, P.O. Box 2675, Harrisburg, PA 17105-2675.
In-Person: You can manage your benefits by visiting your local County Assistance Office (CAO). Use the state's Find Your County Office tool to get the address. If you cannot access the internet, call the DHS Helpline at 1-800-692-7462 for directions to the nearest office.

Multi-Lingual Support

Pennsylvania's EBT Recipient Hotline provides interpreter services in numerous languages. Commonly requested languages include Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, and Russian, with additional options available upon request through a telephone interpretation service.

Track Your EBT Balance & Get Cash Back on SNAP

Download the app

Common EBT-Related Issues and How to Resolve Them

Dealing with your EBT card can sometimes involve a few hiccups. Pennsylvania EBT recipients most often call the 24-hour ACCESS customer service line when they face one of the five common problems below. For each issue, following the recommended steps can help protect your benefits and lead to the fastest resolution.

Lost or Stolen ACCESS Card

If you realize your card is missing, it is important to act immediately to prevent anyone else from using your benefits. Taking quick action protects your remaining balance.

Call 1-888-328-7366 right away. Use the automated menu option to report a lost or stolen card, which will instantly disable it.
When an agent is available, verify your identity with your card number, SSN, and date of birth, and confirm you want the old card deactivated.
Request a replacement card and confirm your current mailing address. A new card typically arrives in 7–10 business days.
Write down the confirmation number the agent provides in case you need to track the new card.
When the new card arrives, call the activation number on the sticker, create a new PIN, and securely destroy the old card.

Forgotten PIN or Locked Account

Forgetting your PIN or having your account locked after too many incorrect attempts is a common issue that can be fixed over the phone.

Dial 1-888-328-7366 and select the PIN-reset option from the menu. Have your card ready for the automated prompts.
Enter your card number and other requested identity details to unlock your account.
Select a new four-digit PIN. Avoid using birthdays, street numbers, or simple sequences like 1234.
To reduce fraud risk, consider changing your PIN monthly. This can be done by phone or through the ConnectEBT website or mobile app.
Test the new PIN at an ATM or store to confirm it works before you complete a transaction.

Deposits Missing or Balance Suddenly Shows $0

If your funds haven't appeared on the expected day, first check the official EBT deposit schedule to confirm your payment date. You can also see your real-time SNAP and EBT Cash balance using the myCOMPASS PA app or the free Benny app.

Call 1-888-328-7366 and choose the "balance" option to hear the official amount on record. Note any unexpected transactions the system reads.
If benefits are still missing, ask the agent if a system outage, holiday delay, or a hold on your case is the cause.
If the funds were issued but used for unfamiliar purchases, proceed with the fraud reporting steps below.
If a paperwork issue with DHS is the cause, contact your County Assistance Office immediately to provide any missing documents.

Card Declined or “Card Not Working” at Checkout

A declined card at checkout can be frustrating, but it may be a simple terminal error or an issue with the card itself that can be easily resolved.

First, try the transaction at a different register. Many errors are specific to a single payment terminal.
If the card is declined again, call 1-888-328-7366 for an automated balance check. If the balance is sufficient, stay on the line for an agent.
Ask the agent if the card is locked, expired, damaged, or not yet activated. The agent can help unlock, reactivate, or check the expiration date.
If the card is physically worn out or expired, request a free replacement and verify your mailing address.
Once the new card arrives, activate it and shred the old one.

Suspicious Transactions, Skimming, or Other Fraud

If you notice unauthorized charges, you must act fast to prevent further theft. Pennsylvania has introduced a new security feature allowing you to lock your card, which is a strong first line of defense.

Immediately call 1-888-328-7366, choose the "PIN change" option to create a new PIN, and then ask the agent to lock or replace the card.
Write down the date, time, and amount of every unauthorized transaction listed by the automated system.
Inform the agent that you suspect your card was skimmed or cloned and request a new card number.
You should also file a theft report with your County Assistance Office. Reporting helps DHS track fraud, though benefits stolen after December 20, 2024, are not currently replaceable.
For ongoing protection, keep your card digitally locked between shopping trips using the myCOMPASS PA or ConnectEBT app and change your PIN monthly.

Manage Your EBT Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny

Benny is a free app that lets you check your real-time EBT balance and earn cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and Kroger. To get started, link your EBT card. After you shop, scan your receipt with Benny to get cashback on SNAP-eligible items.

Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.

SHARE

Handling your EBT benefits in Pennsylvania can be straightforward. This guide details how to get in touch with the state's EBT customer service and provides simple solutions for common problems, such as replacing a lost card, changing your PIN, or reporting potential fraud on your account.

How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Pennsylvania

There are several ways to contact Pennsylvania's EBT customer service for assistance.

Phone: The 24/7 EBT Recipient Hotline at 1-888-EBT-PENN (1-888-328-7366) handles card-specific issues like balance checks and lost cards. For general benefit questions, call the DHS Helpline at 1-800-692-7462 on weekdays from 8 AM to 5 PM. A TDD/TTY line is available at 1-800-451-5886.
Email: A direct customer service email address is not available. For assistance that requires written communication, it is best to call the helplines for guidance or send a letter to the mailing address.
Mail: For formal inquiries or to submit documents, you can write to the Department of Human Services at: Pennsylvania Department of Human Services, EBT Customer Service, P.O. Box 2675, Harrisburg, PA 17105-2675.
In-Person: You can manage your benefits by visiting your local County Assistance Office (CAO). Use the state's Find Your County Office tool to get the address. If you cannot access the internet, call the DHS Helpline at 1-800-692-7462 for directions to the nearest office.

Multi-Lingual Support

Pennsylvania's EBT Recipient Hotline provides interpreter services in numerous languages. Commonly requested languages include Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, and Russian, with additional options available upon request through a telephone interpretation service.

Track Your EBT Balance & Get Cash Back on SNAP

Download the app

Common EBT-Related Issues and How to Resolve Them

Dealing with your EBT card can sometimes involve a few hiccups. Pennsylvania EBT recipients most often call the 24-hour ACCESS customer service line when they face one of the five common problems below. For each issue, following the recommended steps can help protect your benefits and lead to the fastest resolution.

Lost or Stolen ACCESS Card

If you realize your card is missing, it is important to act immediately to prevent anyone else from using your benefits. Taking quick action protects your remaining balance.

Call 1-888-328-7366 right away. Use the automated menu option to report a lost or stolen card, which will instantly disable it.
When an agent is available, verify your identity with your card number, SSN, and date of birth, and confirm you want the old card deactivated.
Request a replacement card and confirm your current mailing address. A new card typically arrives in 7–10 business days.
Write down the confirmation number the agent provides in case you need to track the new card.
When the new card arrives, call the activation number on the sticker, create a new PIN, and securely destroy the old card.

Forgotten PIN or Locked Account

Forgetting your PIN or having your account locked after too many incorrect attempts is a common issue that can be fixed over the phone.

Dial 1-888-328-7366 and select the PIN-reset option from the menu. Have your card ready for the automated prompts.
Enter your card number and other requested identity details to unlock your account.
Select a new four-digit PIN. Avoid using birthdays, street numbers, or simple sequences like 1234.
To reduce fraud risk, consider changing your PIN monthly. This can be done by phone or through the ConnectEBT website or mobile app.
Test the new PIN at an ATM or store to confirm it works before you complete a transaction.

Deposits Missing or Balance Suddenly Shows $0

If your funds haven't appeared on the expected day, first check the official EBT deposit schedule to confirm your payment date. You can also see your real-time SNAP and EBT Cash balance using the myCOMPASS PA app or the free Benny app.

Call 1-888-328-7366 and choose the "balance" option to hear the official amount on record. Note any unexpected transactions the system reads.
If benefits are still missing, ask the agent if a system outage, holiday delay, or a hold on your case is the cause.
If the funds were issued but used for unfamiliar purchases, proceed with the fraud reporting steps below.
If a paperwork issue with DHS is the cause, contact your County Assistance Office immediately to provide any missing documents.

Card Declined or “Card Not Working” at Checkout

A declined card at checkout can be frustrating, but it may be a simple terminal error or an issue with the card itself that can be easily resolved.

First, try the transaction at a different register. Many errors are specific to a single payment terminal.
If the card is declined again, call 1-888-328-7366 for an automated balance check. If the balance is sufficient, stay on the line for an agent.
Ask the agent if the card is locked, expired, damaged, or not yet activated. The agent can help unlock, reactivate, or check the expiration date.
If the card is physically worn out or expired, request a free replacement and verify your mailing address.
Once the new card arrives, activate it and shred the old one.

Suspicious Transactions, Skimming, or Other Fraud

If you notice unauthorized charges, you must act fast to prevent further theft. Pennsylvania has introduced a new security feature allowing you to lock your card, which is a strong first line of defense.

Immediately call 1-888-328-7366, choose the "PIN change" option to create a new PIN, and then ask the agent to lock or replace the card.
Write down the date, time, and amount of every unauthorized transaction listed by the automated system.
Inform the agent that you suspect your card was skimmed or cloned and request a new card number.
You should also file a theft report with your County Assistance Office. Reporting helps DHS track fraud, though benefits stolen after December 20, 2024, are not currently replaceable.
For ongoing protection, keep your card digitally locked between shopping trips using the myCOMPASS PA or ConnectEBT app and change your PIN monthly.

Manage Your EBT Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny

Benny is a free app that lets you check your real-time EBT balance and earn cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and Kroger. To get started, link your EBT card. After you shop, scan your receipt with Benny to get cashback on SNAP-eligible items.

Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.

SHARE

Handling your EBT benefits in Pennsylvania can be straightforward. This guide details how to get in touch with the state's EBT customer service and provides simple solutions for common problems, such as replacing a lost card, changing your PIN, or reporting potential fraud on your account.

How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Pennsylvania

There are several ways to contact Pennsylvania's EBT customer service for assistance.

Phone: The 24/7 EBT Recipient Hotline at 1-888-EBT-PENN (1-888-328-7366) handles card-specific issues like balance checks and lost cards. For general benefit questions, call the DHS Helpline at 1-800-692-7462 on weekdays from 8 AM to 5 PM. A TDD/TTY line is available at 1-800-451-5886.
Email: A direct customer service email address is not available. For assistance that requires written communication, it is best to call the helplines for guidance or send a letter to the mailing address.
Mail: For formal inquiries or to submit documents, you can write to the Department of Human Services at: Pennsylvania Department of Human Services, EBT Customer Service, P.O. Box 2675, Harrisburg, PA 17105-2675.
In-Person: You can manage your benefits by visiting your local County Assistance Office (CAO). Use the state's Find Your County Office tool to get the address. If you cannot access the internet, call the DHS Helpline at 1-800-692-7462 for directions to the nearest office.

Multi-Lingual Support

Pennsylvania's EBT Recipient Hotline provides interpreter services in numerous languages. Commonly requested languages include Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, and Russian, with additional options available upon request through a telephone interpretation service.

Track Your EBT Balance & Get Cash Back on SNAP

Download the app

Common EBT-Related Issues and How to Resolve Them

Dealing with your EBT card can sometimes involve a few hiccups. Pennsylvania EBT recipients most often call the 24-hour ACCESS customer service line when they face one of the five common problems below. For each issue, following the recommended steps can help protect your benefits and lead to the fastest resolution.

Lost or Stolen ACCESS Card

If you realize your card is missing, it is important to act immediately to prevent anyone else from using your benefits. Taking quick action protects your remaining balance.

Call 1-888-328-7366 right away. Use the automated menu option to report a lost or stolen card, which will instantly disable it.
When an agent is available, verify your identity with your card number, SSN, and date of birth, and confirm you want the old card deactivated.
Request a replacement card and confirm your current mailing address. A new card typically arrives in 7–10 business days.
Write down the confirmation number the agent provides in case you need to track the new card.
When the new card arrives, call the activation number on the sticker, create a new PIN, and securely destroy the old card.

Forgotten PIN or Locked Account

Forgetting your PIN or having your account locked after too many incorrect attempts is a common issue that can be fixed over the phone.

Dial 1-888-328-7366 and select the PIN-reset option from the menu. Have your card ready for the automated prompts.
Enter your card number and other requested identity details to unlock your account.
Select a new four-digit PIN. Avoid using birthdays, street numbers, or simple sequences like 1234.
To reduce fraud risk, consider changing your PIN monthly. This can be done by phone or through the ConnectEBT website or mobile app.
Test the new PIN at an ATM or store to confirm it works before you complete a transaction.

Deposits Missing or Balance Suddenly Shows $0

If your funds haven't appeared on the expected day, first check the official EBT deposit schedule to confirm your payment date. You can also see your real-time SNAP and EBT Cash balance using the myCOMPASS PA app or the free Benny app.

Call 1-888-328-7366 and choose the "balance" option to hear the official amount on record. Note any unexpected transactions the system reads.
If benefits are still missing, ask the agent if a system outage, holiday delay, or a hold on your case is the cause.
If the funds were issued but used for unfamiliar purchases, proceed with the fraud reporting steps below.
If a paperwork issue with DHS is the cause, contact your County Assistance Office immediately to provide any missing documents.

Card Declined or “Card Not Working” at Checkout

A declined card at checkout can be frustrating, but it may be a simple terminal error or an issue with the card itself that can be easily resolved.

First, try the transaction at a different register. Many errors are specific to a single payment terminal.
If the card is declined again, call 1-888-328-7366 for an automated balance check. If the balance is sufficient, stay on the line for an agent.
Ask the agent if the card is locked, expired, damaged, or not yet activated. The agent can help unlock, reactivate, or check the expiration date.
If the card is physically worn out or expired, request a free replacement and verify your mailing address.
Once the new card arrives, activate it and shred the old one.

Suspicious Transactions, Skimming, or Other Fraud

If you notice unauthorized charges, you must act fast to prevent further theft. Pennsylvania has introduced a new security feature allowing you to lock your card, which is a strong first line of defense.

Immediately call 1-888-328-7366, choose the "PIN change" option to create a new PIN, and then ask the agent to lock or replace the card.
Write down the date, time, and amount of every unauthorized transaction listed by the automated system.
Inform the agent that you suspect your card was skimmed or cloned and request a new card number.
You should also file a theft report with your County Assistance Office. Reporting helps DHS track fraud, though benefits stolen after December 20, 2024, are not currently replaceable.
For ongoing protection, keep your card digitally locked between shopping trips using the myCOMPASS PA or ConnectEBT app and change your PIN monthly.

Manage Your EBT Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny

Benny is a free app that lets you check your real-time EBT balance and earn cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and Kroger. To get started, link your EBT card. After you shop, scan your receipt with Benny to get cashback on SNAP-eligible items.

Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.

SHARE

Handling your EBT benefits in Pennsylvania can be straightforward. This guide details how to get in touch with the state's EBT customer service and provides simple solutions for common problems, such as replacing a lost card, changing your PIN, or reporting potential fraud on your account.

How to Contact EBT Customer Service in Pennsylvania

There are several ways to contact Pennsylvania's EBT customer service for assistance.

Phone: The 24/7 EBT Recipient Hotline at 1-888-EBT-PENN (1-888-328-7366) handles card-specific issues like balance checks and lost cards. For general benefit questions, call the DHS Helpline at 1-800-692-7462 on weekdays from 8 AM to 5 PM. A TDD/TTY line is available at 1-800-451-5886.
Email: A direct customer service email address is not available. For assistance that requires written communication, it is best to call the helplines for guidance or send a letter to the mailing address.
Mail: For formal inquiries or to submit documents, you can write to the Department of Human Services at: Pennsylvania Department of Human Services, EBT Customer Service, P.O. Box 2675, Harrisburg, PA 17105-2675.
In-Person: You can manage your benefits by visiting your local County Assistance Office (CAO). Use the state's Find Your County Office tool to get the address. If you cannot access the internet, call the DHS Helpline at 1-800-692-7462 for directions to the nearest office.

Multi-Lingual Support

Pennsylvania's EBT Recipient Hotline provides interpreter services in numerous languages. Commonly requested languages include Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, and Russian, with additional options available upon request through a telephone interpretation service.

Track Your EBT Balance & Get Cash Back on SNAP

Download the app

Common EBT-Related Issues and How to Resolve Them

Dealing with your EBT card can sometimes involve a few hiccups. Pennsylvania EBT recipients most often call the 24-hour ACCESS customer service line when they face one of the five common problems below. For each issue, following the recommended steps can help protect your benefits and lead to the fastest resolution.

Lost or Stolen ACCESS Card

If you realize your card is missing, it is important to act immediately to prevent anyone else from using your benefits. Taking quick action protects your remaining balance.

Call 1-888-328-7366 right away. Use the automated menu option to report a lost or stolen card, which will instantly disable it.
When an agent is available, verify your identity with your card number, SSN, and date of birth, and confirm you want the old card deactivated.
Request a replacement card and confirm your current mailing address. A new card typically arrives in 7–10 business days.
Write down the confirmation number the agent provides in case you need to track the new card.
When the new card arrives, call the activation number on the sticker, create a new PIN, and securely destroy the old card.

Forgotten PIN or Locked Account

Forgetting your PIN or having your account locked after too many incorrect attempts is a common issue that can be fixed over the phone.

Dial 1-888-328-7366 and select the PIN-reset option from the menu. Have your card ready for the automated prompts.
Enter your card number and other requested identity details to unlock your account.
Select a new four-digit PIN. Avoid using birthdays, street numbers, or simple sequences like 1234.
To reduce fraud risk, consider changing your PIN monthly. This can be done by phone or through the ConnectEBT website or mobile app.
Test the new PIN at an ATM or store to confirm it works before you complete a transaction.

Deposits Missing or Balance Suddenly Shows $0

If your funds haven't appeared on the expected day, first check the official EBT deposit schedule to confirm your payment date. You can also see your real-time SNAP and EBT Cash balance using the myCOMPASS PA app or the free Benny app.

Call 1-888-328-7366 and choose the "balance" option to hear the official amount on record. Note any unexpected transactions the system reads.
If benefits are still missing, ask the agent if a system outage, holiday delay, or a hold on your case is the cause.
If the funds were issued but used for unfamiliar purchases, proceed with the fraud reporting steps below.
If a paperwork issue with DHS is the cause, contact your County Assistance Office immediately to provide any missing documents.

Card Declined or “Card Not Working” at Checkout

A declined card at checkout can be frustrating, but it may be a simple terminal error or an issue with the card itself that can be easily resolved.

First, try the transaction at a different register. Many errors are specific to a single payment terminal.
If the card is declined again, call 1-888-328-7366 for an automated balance check. If the balance is sufficient, stay on the line for an agent.
Ask the agent if the card is locked, expired, damaged, or not yet activated. The agent can help unlock, reactivate, or check the expiration date.
If the card is physically worn out or expired, request a free replacement and verify your mailing address.
Once the new card arrives, activate it and shred the old one.

Suspicious Transactions, Skimming, or Other Fraud

If you notice unauthorized charges, you must act fast to prevent further theft. Pennsylvania has introduced a new security feature allowing you to lock your card, which is a strong first line of defense.

Immediately call 1-888-328-7366, choose the "PIN change" option to create a new PIN, and then ask the agent to lock or replace the card.
Write down the date, time, and amount of every unauthorized transaction listed by the automated system.
Inform the agent that you suspect your card was skimmed or cloned and request a new card number.
You should also file a theft report with your County Assistance Office. Reporting helps DHS track fraud, though benefits stolen after December 20, 2024, are not currently replaceable.
For ongoing protection, keep your card digitally locked between shopping trips using the myCOMPASS PA or ConnectEBT app and change your PIN monthly.

Manage Your EBT Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny

Benny is a free app that lets you check your real-time EBT balance and earn cash back on eligible purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and Kroger. To get started, link your EBT card. After you shop, scan your receipt with Benny to get cashback on SNAP-eligible items.

Download Benny to take control of your spending and get more out of your EBT benefits.