EBT theft has become one of the most alarming issues facing SNAP households today, with thousands of families losing food benefits each month to scams and skimming devices. If you’ve experienced EBT theft or want to protect your benefits before something happens, this guide explains how the theft occurs, what actions you must take immediately, which states reimburse stolen SNAP benefits, and the strongest ways to secure your card going forward.
1. What Is EBT Theft & Why EBT Accounts Are Targeted
EBT theft happens when criminals steal a cardholder’s SNAP or cash assistance benefits through electronic scams such as skimming, cloning, phishing, or account takeover. Because many EBT cards still rely on magnetic stripes instead of chip technology, they are easier for thieves to exploit compared to modern debit or credit cards.
SNAP and TA benefits are targeted for several reasons:
- Many state EBT systems do not automatically detect unusual activity. Banks usually do, but EBT systems do not.
- PIN-based security becomes vulnerable when thieves use skimmers to capture both the card information and the PIN.
- Criminals know that benefits load on the same day each month and often drain accounts shortly after deposits.
- Phishing texts, emails, and fake EBT messages trick people into sharing sensitive information.
- Account takeover attacks can occur when scammers imitate official EBT portals or mobile apps.
>>> Learn more: What Is EBT Cash? What You Can Use It For
2. How EBT Theft Happens (Based on Real Cases in NY, CA, MA & Nationwide)
EBT theft has affected millions of SNAP households across the United States. States like New York, California, and Massachusetts have published detailed investigations showing that most theft occurs through four major techniques. Understanding these methods can help you react quickly and keep your benefits safe.
2.1. Skimming Devices Installed on ATMs & Store Terminals
Skimming is the most common form of EBT theft. Criminals place fake card readers over real payment terminals or ATMs. These devices capture the card number when you swipe and often include hidden cameras or fake keypads to record your PIN.
Because most EBT cards still use magnetic stripes, they are far more vulnerable to skimming than chip-enabled cards. States including NY and CA have documented cases where thieves stole thousands of dollars by installing skimmers at grocery stores, corner markets, and even laundromats.
Signs of a skimmer include:
- Loose or bulky card readers
- Keypads that feel raised or hard to press
- Machines with mismatched colors or materials
- Covers that block lights or labels
If anything looks off, do not swipe your card. Report it to the store and your state EBT office.
2.2. Card Cloning
Once thieves collect your card data and PIN, they create a duplicate card, also known as a cloned card. They then withdraw or spend your benefits in another city or state, often within minutes of benefits loading.
Real cases from Massachusetts and New York show:
- Benefits drained at 3:00 AM in another state
- Transactions occurring only minutes after monthly benefits were deposited
- Multiple households hit at the same store where a skimmer was later found
Cloned card theft happens quietly, and many victims do not know their benefits are gone until they try to buy groceries.
2.3. Phishing Texts & Fake “EBT Update” Messages
Phishing scams imitate EBT customer service, state agencies, or benefit portals. These messages often say:
- “Your EBT card is locked. Verify now.”
- “Unusual activity on your EBT account.”
- “Update your EBT information to avoid suspension.”
Victims who click these fake links or reply with their card info unknowingly give criminals full access to their accounts.
States like CA and NY warn that:
- Official agencies will never ask for your PIN by text, call, or email
- Links in phishing messages often mimic real government sites
- Scammers sometimes spoof caller IDs to look official
Never respond to unexpected EBT messages, even if they look legitimate.
2.4. Account Takeover Through Apps or Portals
Some states allow EBT cardholders to check balances or manage benefits online. Criminals exploit this by:
- Creating fake login pages
- Stealing login details through phishing
- Guessing weak passwords
- Resetting accounts using stolen personal information
Once inside the account, thieves can:
- View the card number
- Change security settings
- Monitor balance deposits
- Drain benefits instantly
New York specifically warns that account takeover attacks have increased significantly and encourages cardholders to use features like card freeze, transaction monitoring, and out-of-state transaction blocking where available.
3. What To Do Immediately If You Are a Victim of EBT Theft
When EBT theft happens, benefits can disappear within minutes. Acting quickly is the only way to stop further loss and document the fraud for a possible reimbursement claim. Follow the steps below as soon as you notice unfamiliar transactions or your balance suddenly drops.
Step 1: Freeze Your EBT Card (If Your State Supports It)
Some states now allow cardholders to temporarily freeze their EBT card to prevent thieves from making additional purchases.
For example, New York’s ebtEDGE portal and app include a Freeze/Unfreeze feature. When enabled, your card is locked, blocking all purchases, ATM withdrawals, and balance inquiries until you unfreeze it.
If your state provides a card freeze tool:
- Log in to your EBT app or portal
- Select Freeze My Card Everywhere
- Unfreeze only when making a purchase
- Freeze again immediately after shopping
Freezing your card stops ongoing EBT theft in real time.
Step 2: Report the Theft to Your State Right Away
You must report unauthorized transactions as soon as possible. Every state requires victims to notify the EBT Customer Service Helpline before any reimbursement request can be processed.
To report EBT theft, you can:
- Call the number on the back of your EBT card
- Report through your state’s EBT portal (ex: ebtEDGE)
- Use your state’s EBT mobile app
Tell the agent:
- That your benefits were stolen
- When the theft occurred
- Which transactions you did not authorize
Your report creates an official record, which is required for reimbursement in states that still offer replacement benefits.
Step 3: Request a Replacement Card
After filing your report, your state will deactivate your stolen card and issue a new one. A replacement card prevents thieves from using cloned or skimmed card data again.
Depending on your state, you can request a replacement by:
- Calling EBT Customer Service
- Visiting your local Department of Social Services
- Requesting through your state’s EBT app
Some states ship replacement cards within 3–7 business days. If you already received a new EBT card after the theft, you do not need another one.
Step 4: File a Claim for Replacement SNAP Benefits
States handle replacement SNAP differently depending on federal rules and state-specific extensions.
In many states, SNAP reimbursement for EBT theft ended after the federal authorization expired on December 20, 2024. However, some states, such as California and Maryland, still offer their own reimbursement programs.
If you live in a state that allows reimbursement:
- Submit your claim within the state’s deadline
- Provide transaction details (date, amount, location)
- Include any screenshots or evidence from your EBT history
You must show:
- The transactions were fraudulent
- You reported the theft promptly
- Your card was replaced after the incident
If approved, replacement benefits are usually deposited onto your new EBT card.
4. Can You Get Stolen EBT Benefits Back?
Most SNAP recipients cannot get stolen benefits replaced anymore. Federal authorization to reimburse SNAP theft ended on December 20, 2024, and all states stopped accepting SNAP theft applications after October 1, 2025. Even if you file a report, SNAP replacement is no longer available under federal rules.
Some states still reimburse certain cash assistance programs, not SNAP. These replacements apply only when benefits were stolen electronically and only up to the limits set by each state. To qualify, you usually must submit proof of the fraudulent transactions, your case details, and a completed claim form through your local agency.
5. If You Have SNAP/EBT, You May Qualify for Free Phone Service With AirTalk Wireless
Many victims of EBT theft struggle to respond quickly because they cannot check alerts, freeze their card, or contact support without a working phone. This is why having reliable phone service is an important layer of protection for anyone using SNAP or EBT.
5.1. Why a Reliable Phone Helps Against EBT Theft
When your state detects suspicious activity, attempts to change your PIN, or unusual transactions, notifications often go straight to your phone. A stable connection allows you to freeze your card right away, review transactions, and call EBT customer service before more benefits are taken. Staying connected is one of the simplest ways to reduce the risk of repeated EBT theft.
5.2. AirTalk Wireless Benefits for SNAP Recipients
SNAP participation allows many households to qualify for the Lifeline Program through AirTalk Wireless.
Once approved, you can receive a free smartphone, free monthly talk text and data, or a free eSIM for compatible devices. These benefits help you stay reachable for security alerts, monitor your balance through apps like ebtEDGE, and act fast if anything seems wrong with your EBT account.
6. Conclusion
EBT theft can be stressful, but understanding how it happens and knowing what steps to take can help you protect your benefits.
Keep an eye on your account, use security tools your state provides, and take action quickly if anything looks unusual. SNAP households can also apply for Lifeline through AirTalk to stay connected and respond faster to any EBT issues.
FAQs
What is an EBT theft claim?
An EBT theft claim is a request you file with your state agency when benefits were taken through skimming, cloning or phishing. Some states still allow claims for certain cash assistance programs but SNAP theft reimbursement has ended in most states.
How does SNAP EBT benefits theft reimbursement work?
SNAP reimbursement was available in the past, but the federal program ended in December 2024. Some states may still reimburse cash benefits, but SNAP theft reimbursement is no longer offered after October 1, 2025.
Why do my EBT benefits keep getting stolen?
Most cases happen through skimmers on checkout terminals, cloned cards, or phishing messages that capture your PIN. Regularly updating your PIN and checking card readers can lower the risk.
Can someone use your EBT card without the PIN?
In most cases no, thieves need both your card number and your PIN. However, if they capture both through a skimmer or phishing scam, they can access your benefits.
Who do I call if someone stole my EBT?
You should call the EBT customer service number on the back of your card right away and report the theft to your state agency. This helps protect your remaining balance and documents the incident.