If you have lost your EBT card, it is important to take action quickly to prevent any unauthorized use of your benefits. Here are the steps you should follow to address the situation and obtain a replacement card.
Report the Loss
The first thing you should do when you realize your EBT card is lost or stolen is to report it immediately. This can help protect your benefits from being used by someone else.
- Contact your state’s EBT customer service hotline to report the loss.
- Provide your name, EBT card number, and any other information requested.
- Follow the instructions given by the customer service representative to deactivate your lost card.
Request a Replacement Card
After reporting the loss of your EBT card, you will need to request a replacement card. This will allow you to continue accessing your benefits without any interruption.
- Submit a request for a replacement card through your state’s EBT website or customer service hotline.
- Provide any necessary information to verify your identity and eligibility for a replacement card.
| State | EBT Website | Customer Service Hotline |
|---|---|---|
| New York | www.otda.ny.gov | 1-800-342-3009 |
| California | www.ebt.ca.gov | 1-877-328-9677 |
Protect Your Personal Information
When dealing with a lost EBT card, it is important to protect your personal information to prevent identity theft or fraud.
- Avoid sharing your EBT card number, PIN, or any other sensitive information with anyone.
- Monitor your EBT account regularly for any unauthorized transactions.
Review Your Transactions
After receiving your replacement EBT card, it is a good practice to review your transactions to ensure that all benefits are being used appropriately.
- Check your EBT account balance regularly.
- Report any suspicious transactions to your state’s EBT customer service hotline immediately.
Consider Setting Up Alerts
To help monitor the activity on your EBT account and prevent unauthorized use, you can consider setting up alerts.
- Sign up for text or email alerts for account balance updates or transaction notifications.
- Stay informed about any activity on your EBT account to detect unauthorized use early.
By following these steps and staying vigilant, you can address the loss of your EBT card efficiently and protect your benefits from fraud or misuse.