Hello Folks! Today, we're here to help you learn how to protect your EBT SNAP benefits while shopping online. This guide covers common scams, essential security tips, and trusted retailers to keep your benefits safe.

With over 42 million Americans receiving SNAP benefits and online grocery shopping becoming an increasingly popular way to save time and money, it's important to protect your SNAP EBT benefits when shopping online. This guide will help you: 

1. Safeguard your EBT card.

2. Maintain your benefits.

3. Securely shop for groceries.

Why Your EBT Security Matters

Every year, thousands of SNAP recipients face benefit theft through various scams and fraud attempts. The USDA reports that SNAP trafficking – which includes benefit theft and fraud – affects approximately 1% of benefits. While this percentage may seem small, it represents millions of dollars that should be helping families put food on their tables.

Common Risks Every EBT Cardholders Should Know

Today's scammers use sophisticated methods to target EBT cardholders. Common scams include:

• Skimming devices on in-store payment terminals

• Phony text messages or calls claiming to be from SNAP offices

• Fraudulent emails requesting EBT card information

Essential Tips for Safe Online Shopping with Your EBT Card

1. Choose Trusted Shopping Platforms

Only use your EBT card with authorized retailers and delivery services. Trusted major platforms include:

• DoorDash

• Uber Eats

• Gopuff

• Amazon Fresh

• Walmart

• Instacart

2. Protect Your PIN Online

• Never share your PIN with anyone – not even customer service representatives

• Avoid entering your EBT information on public Wi-Fi networks

• Change your PIN frequently – monthly is recommended. You can change your PIN by:

  • Calling the customer service number on the back of your EBT card

  • Using your state's online portal

  • Visiting your local SNAP office

  • Using the cardholder portal at ebtEDGE.com

• Avoid easy-to-guess PINs like “1234”, “1111”, “7890”, etc.

3. Use Strong Security Measures

• Create unique passwords for all your shopping accounts

• Enable two-factor authentication when available (also called 2FA or MFA)

• Use a password manager to securely store your login information

• Regularly monitor your EBT balance and take advantage of fraud tools through official state apps like EBTEdge or ConnectEBT

4. Regularly Monitor Your Account

It’s smart to check your balance or log into your SNAP EBT account regularly to keep an eye out for any activity you don’t recognize. If you do find unauthorized transactions, immediately lock your card and follow the steps in the next section to report the fraudulent activity and get a new card.

What to Do If Your EBT Card Is Compromised

If you suspect unauthorized use of your benefits, find your state EBT website and phone number, and do the following:

1. Freeze your EBT card

2. Request a replacement card

3. Report the fraud to your state EBT processor

4. File to have lost benefits replaced

5. Save in-store receipts and email confirmations for all SNAP orders to easily track unauthorized transactions

Start Shopping Safely Today

Protecting your EBT benefits doesn't have to be complicated. By following these security tips and shopping through trusted platforms, you can safely enjoy the convenience of online grocery shopping while keeping your benefits secure.

Check out joinforage.com/app for deals on groceries from trusted shopping platforms that accept EBT, and sign up for our mailing list where we’re dedicated to helping SNAP shoppers save money on groceries.

🔖 Save up to $10/week or more on groceries today with joinforage.com/app .