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92. What if my SNAP benefits were stolen or “skimmed”?

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SNAP Advocacy Guide
By
Massachusetts Law Reform Institute
Reviewed
Reviewed
Text

If your SNAP has been stolen, tell DTA! DTA can replace stolen SNAP.

There are a few ways that thieves steal SNAP. ”Skimming” happens when thieves put a device on an ATM or store’s card-swiping machine to copy your EBT card and PIN. Then they can use your SNAP benefits without your permission and without you knowing.

“Phishing” happens when thieves call, text, or email you, pretend they are from DTA, and ask you for personal information - like your EBT card number, PIN, or SSN.

Since June 2022, thieves have stolen SNAP from thousands of households in Massachusetts.

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How to report the theft and get DTA your signature
  • Phone: Call the DTA Stolen Benefits Line 833-602-9247, or DTA Assistance Line 877-382-2363. Tell DTA you wish to give your verbal signature for a claim about stolen SNAP
  • Online: Fill out DTA’s online claim form here: Mass.gov/forms/claim-for-replacement-of-stolen-benefits-form
  • Mail: Use DTA’s paper form - or a handwritten statement with the same information - and send to DTA. DTA’s form is here: Mass.gov/doc/claim-for-replacement-benefits-form
    • Upload it on DTA Connect
    • Fax it to (617) 348-5479
    • Bring it to any local DTA office
    • Mail it to:
      DTA Program Integrity
      Fraud Investigation Unit
      P.O. Box 4411, Taunton, MA 02780-0435

If you don't get DTA a signature at the same time you report, you must get them your signature within 30 days of when you report.

Note

DTA is currently replacing the total amount of SNAP that was stolen. If DTA does not replace all of your stolen SNAP, contact MLRI at [email protected].

How can I protect my EBT card against theft?

The best way to protect your SNAP is to change your PIN after every purchase. Since that is very difficult for most EBT card users, DTA advises that you change your PIN before each SNAP issuance. Call 1-800-997-2555 to change your PIN. Learn more at Mass.gov/ProtectYourEBT

DTA Online Guide

See Appendix G for links to the DTA’s BEACON Online Guide for this section.

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91. What if my EBT card is lost or stolen?
93. What if I lose food due to a power outage, a fire or a natural disaster?

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