The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) supports millions of low-income families in the U.S. through Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards. However, EBT cards lack federal protection against theft and fraud, leaving users vulnerable.
To tackle this issue, recent laws have extended the repayment deadline for stolen SNAP benefits, giving victims more time to claim their funds.
How to Report SNAP Fraud
If you suspect fraud or theft of your SNAP benefits, you must act quickly. Reporting the incident to your local SNAP office within 30 days of discovering the theft is crucial for eligibility.
Common Fraud Types
- Card Skimming: Scammers steal card information using devices installed on card readers.
- Card Cloning: Fraudsters create duplicate cards to access funds.
- Phishing Scams: Fake texts or calls trick victims into sharing personal details.
By staying alert and reporting fraud early, you can protect your benefits.
Extended Deadline for Reclaiming Stolen Benefits
President Biden signed the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act of 2025, which extended the repayment deadline for stolen SNAP benefits.
Key Points
- Eligibility: Benefits stolen on or after October 1, 2022, qualify for reimbursement.
- New Deadline: The previous deadline of September 30, 2024, has been extended to December 20, 2024.
This extension offers victims extra time to file claims and receive their reimbursements.
Federal Support for SNAP Reimbursement
Federal guidance ensures that states must follow strict rules when replacing stolen SNAP benefits. Catherine Buhrig, SNAP’s associate administrator, confirmed that states are required to use federal funds for reimbursement until January 2025.
What This Means for You
- Extended Reporting Window: More time to claim stolen benefits.
- Federal Funding: States will reimburse eligible victims using federal money.
- Consistent Processing: SNAP offices must handle claims under standard rules.
Tips to Protect Your EBT Benefits
Here are some ways to keep your SNAP benefits safe:
- Avoid Public Wi-Fi: Never access your EBT account on unsecured networks.
- Monitor Transactions: Check your account frequently for unauthorized activity.
- Change Your PIN Often: Update your PIN regularly to prevent theft.
- Stay Alert to Scams: Ignore unsolicited messages asking for your card details.
If you experience theft, report it to your local SNAP office immediately to begin the claim process.
Conclusion
The extension of the repayment deadline for stolen SNAP benefits is a lifeline for victims of fraud. By acting swiftly and staying vigilant, recipients can safeguard their funds and seek timely reimbursement.
With federal support in place until January 2025, SNAP users have a robust framework to recover lost benefits. Staying informed and cautious is key to protecting your EBT benefits and financial security.
FAQs
1. What should I do if my EBT benefits are stolen?
Report the theft to your local SNAP office within 30 days.
2. What is the new deadline for stolen SNAP benefit claims?
The deadline is extended to December 20, 2024.
3. What types of fraud affect EBT cards?
Common methods include skimming, cloning, and phishing scams.
4. Are states required to replace stolen SNAP benefits?
Yes, states must use federal funds to replace eligible benefits until January 2025.
5. How can I protect my EBT card from fraud?
Change your PIN frequently, avoid public Wi-Fi, and check your transactions regularly.
