Monday, April 8, 2013

What Should I Do When I Lost my EBT Card?

The Electronic Benefit Transfer Card, also known as the EBT Card, is the government’s way to electronically transfer some cash and food benefits to some qualified individuals. The cash benefits can be obtained by withdrawing money from an Automated Teller Machine using the card. Those who need to purchase food items can also use the EBT card to pay for purchases at authorized retail merchants.

If in the event that you lost your EBT card, make sure to report it immediately so it will not be used by whoever who stole it. Remember that when the money is taken out of your card without your knowledge, there won’t be a way to retrieve it.  Here are tips on what to do the moment you realize that your card is lost.

Call Customer Service


You have to call EBT’s 24 hours customer service hotline the moment you realize that your card is stolen or lost. This number is often found at the back of the card, but of course, since your card is no longer with you, the best way is to call your local Social Service office. They will usually advise you to call the customer service hotline immediately so the authorizing bank will be able to freeze your account. That way, the person who took it won’t be able to use the card.

Request for a New Card


After the customer service agent has cancelled the card, you will have to request for a new card. The agent will ask you to verify your information, such as your contact details, as well as your personal information, especially your date of birth and the last four digits of your social security number. After gathering all your information, a new card will then be requested to be sent to your address.

Activate your New Card


Once you receive the new card, make sure to activate it and change your PIN. Call the customer service hotline for this. Remember that your card will not work not unless you activate it by calling the customer service.

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