Report your card to your state's EBT customer service line within 24 hours

When you lose your EBT card or believe it has been stolen, call your state's EBT customer service number right away. This is the fastest way to freeze your account and prevent someone else from using your benefits. Most states operate their EBT hotlines 24 hours a day, seven days a week, specifically so you can report a lost or stolen card at any time.

Your state EBT program will deactivate the card when ready once you call. This stops any unauthorized purchases. Have your Social Security number and case number ready when you call — your case number appears on your EBT card or in any mail you received about your benefits. If you do not have your case number, the representative can look it up using your name and date of birth.

After you report the card lost, your state will mail you a replacement card. The timeline varies by state — some send a new card within 5 to 7 business days, while others take up to two weeks. Ask the representative how long to expect and whether they can expedite the card if you need it urgently.

Key Takeaways

  • Call your state EBT customer service line within 24 hours of discovering your card is lost or stolen to freeze your account when ready.
  • Have your Social Security number and case number ready, or be prepared to provide your name and date of birth so the representative can locate your account.
  • Your state will deactivate the lost card right away and mail you a replacement, which typically arrives within 5 to 14 business days depending on your state.
  • If you need cash benefits before your replacement card arrives, ask your state about emergency cash options or temporary card issuance.
  • Report any unauthorized charges on your account to your state EBT program in writing within 60 days to dispute the transaction.

Find your state's EBT customer service number

Each state runs its own EBT program and has its own customer service line. The easiest way to find the correct number is to look at your EBT card itself — the customer service number is printed on the back. If you do not have your card, search online for "[your state name] EBT customer service" or visit your state's SNAP or benefits website.

Some states also allow you to report a lost card through their online portal or mobile app. Log in with your username and password, find the card management section, and select the option to report your card lost or stolen. However, calling is faster and creates an when ready record of when you reported the loss.

What information you will need to provide

When you call to report your card lost, have the following information ready: your full name, date of birth, Social Security number, and your case number (if you know it). The representative will use this to pull up your account and confirm your identity.

If you are calling on behalf of someone else — for example, a parent reporting a child's card lost — be prepared to explain your relationship and provide your own identification information as well. Some states require the cardholder to call personally, while others allow authorized representatives to report on their behalf. The representative will tell you if you need the cardholder to call back.

What happens to your benefits while you wait for a replacement card

Your benefits do not disappear when your card is lost. The money stays in your account, attached to your name and case number, not to the physical card. Once your replacement card arrives, you will be able to use it to access all the benefits that were in your account before the loss.

If you need to buy food before your replacement card arrives, ask your state EBT program about emergency options. Some states issue a temporary card number that works when ready, some mail an expedited card for an extra fee, and some allow you to pick up emergency cash at a local office. The options vary, so ask what your state offers.

Protecting yourself if your card was stolen

If you believe someone used your card without permission before you reported it lost, document what happened. Write down the date you last used the card, the date you discovered it missing, and any purchases you did not make. Check your transaction history by logging into your state's online portal or calling customer service to request a statement.

Report any unauthorized charges to your state EBT program in writing within 60 days. Include your name, case number, the dates of the unauthorized transactions, and the amounts. Your state has specific procedures for disputing fraudulent charges — ask the representative for the correct mailing address or online form when you call to report the card lost.

Preventing loss and theft going forward

Keep your EBT card in a safe place, separate from other cards if possible. Do not share your PIN with anyone, and do not write it down. Change your PIN regularly — you can do this at an ATM, through your state's online portal, or by calling customer service.

If you use your card frequently at the same stores, consider asking the cashier to keep an eye out for it. Some people also take a photo of their card number and PIN (stored securely on their phone, not in a text or email) so they can report the exact card number if it is lost. Never leave your card unattended at a checkout counter or ATM.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a replacement EBT card?

Most states mail a replacement card within 5 to 14 business days. Some states offer expedited delivery for an additional fee, and a few states can issue a temporary card number when ready. Call your state EBT customer service to ask about the timeline for your specific state and whether faster options are available.

Can I use my EBT benefits while I wait for a replacement card?

Not with the physical card, but your benefits remain in your account. Ask your state whether they offer emergency cash withdrawal, a temporary card number, or in-person pickup at a local office. Some states allow you to use your case number and PIN at certain retailers even without the card.

What if someone used my card before I reported it lost?

Call your state EBT program and ask how to dispute unauthorized charges. You will likely need to submit a written dispute within 60 days, including the dates and amounts of the fraudulent transactions. Your state will investigate and reverse charges that are confirmed as unauthorized.

Do I have to pay a fee to replace my EBT card?

Most states do not charge a fee for a standard replacement card. However, some states charge a small fee for expedited or rush delivery. Ask when you call to report the card lost whether your state charges for replacement or expedited options.

Can I report my card lost online instead of calling?

Some states allow you to report a lost card through their online portal or mobile app, but calling is faster and creates an when ready record. If you use the online method, follow up with a phone call to confirm the report was received and to ask about replacement timing and emergency options.