What to Do If Your EBT Card Is Lost or Stolen
- Purple
- 11 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Losing your EBT card—or having it stolen—can be stressful, especially if you rely on SNAP to pay for groceries. But don’t panic. Each state has a process for replacing your card and protecting your benefits.
In this post, we’ll walk you through:
What to do immediately
How to report a lost or stolen card
How to request a replacement
What happens to your balance
How Purple can help you monitor your EBT benefits
1. Act Fast to Prevent Misuse
If your EBT card goes missing, call your state’s EBT customer service line right away. This prevents others from using your benefits while your replacement is being processed.
Even if you think the card was just misplaced, it’s safer to report it immediately.
⚠️ In most states, any stolen funds used before the card is reported lost cannot be refunded.
2. Report the Card Lost or Stolen
To report your EBT card:
Call the EBT customer service number listed on your state’s EBT website
Or dial the nationwide EBT hotline: 1-888-328-6399
Follow the prompts to report your card as lost, stolen, or damaged
Most states offer 24/7 automated phone systems so you can take action quickly—even on nights or weekends.
3. Request a Replacement Card
After reporting the issue, you’ll be prompted to request a new card. Your state will mail a replacement EBT card to your address on file.
You can also:
Log into your state’s EBT portal (if available)
Visit a local SNAP office for in-person replacement (in some states)
Cards usually arrive within 7–10 business days. Some states offer expedited shipping if you request it.
4. Will You Lose Your Benefits?
No—your SNAP balance will transfer to the new card as long as the lost card was reported promptly.
However:
You’re responsible for any benefits spent before reporting the card as lost/stolen
Benefits are not refunded if someone else uses your card and PIN before it’s disabled
For extra protection, keep your EBT card PIN private and avoid writing it down near your card.
5. How Purple Helps You Track EBT Activity
Purple makes it easier to stay on top of your EBT balance—so you can catch suspicious activity and avoid surprises.
With Purple, you can:
Link your EBT card and check balances anytime
Get alerts when benefits arrive each month
Review transaction activity alongside your checking account
Track multiple benefit types in one app
Store notes and receipts in case you need to report fraud
It’s the easiest way to manage your benefits and stay protected.