EBT card fraud: Financially weak citizens in the United States are provided assistance by the government through various assistance programs. This money is usually distributed through EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) cards. But if the funds you receive under your SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) or any other government assistance program have not arrived on time, the reason may be EBT card fraud.
Why is EBT card fraud increasing?
EBT card fraud has become a serious problem in recent years. Fraudsters can steal card information and transfer the beneficiaries’ assistance amount to their account. This is why if your assistance amount is not deposited to your EBT card on time, it is the first suspicion. >
If you think you have been cheated, check your transaction history immediately. If you see any suspicious transaction, change your PIN immediately and inform the local Food Stamp Office. >
Other reasons why EBT cards may not receive funds

While fraud may be a major factor, there are several other reasons why your aid money may not reach your EBT card on time: >
1. Weekend or holiday impact
- If payment day falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or public holiday, your payment will be made on the next business day (Monday).
2. State rules and distribution process
- Each state has its own distribution timeline. Sometimes payments may be delayed due to changes in policies or administrative delays.
3. Long-term non-use of EBT card
- If you do not use your EBT card for 9 consecutive months, your account may be temporarily suspended.
4. Recertification delays
- EBT beneficiaries must recertify their eligibility on a specific schedule. If you do not submit the required documents on time, your funds may be delayed.
5. Delays in administrative processes
- Sometimes there are delays in the application process by government agencies. In such a case, the concerned office notifies you by email or post.
How much money will SNAP beneficiaries receive in 2025?
Every year, the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) revises the income limits, deductions, and maximum allocations for the SNAP program. The maximum amount that SNAP beneficiaries will receive in 2025 will be as follows:
State / Territory | Maximum Allotment for a Four-Member Family ($) |
---|---|
48 States and Washington, D.C. | $975 |
Hawaii | $1,723 |
Alaska | $1,258 – $1,953 |
Guam | $1,437 |
U.S. Virgin Islands | $1,254 |
How to avoid EBT fraud?
If you want your EBT card to be safe and your assistance amount to be deposited safely in your account, take the following precautions: >
- ✔ Change your PIN regularly and do not share it with anyone.
- ✔ Keep an eye on suspicious transactions and report them immediately.
- ✔ Log in only on authorized websites or apps and do not click on unknown links.
- ✔ If there is any problem, contact your local food assistance office immediately.
Conclusion
EBT card fraud has become a serious issue, and if your aid money hasn’t arrived on time, it’s likely due to fraud, administrative delays, or a mistake in re-certification. You should immediately check your transactions, change your PIN, and notify your local office as needed. Also, it’s important to be vigilant and take security measures to avoid any fraud in the future.
FAQs
Q. What is an EBT card?
A. An EBT card is an electronic benefits card used to distribute government assistance like SNAP benefits.
Q. Why hasn’t my SNAP payment been added to my EBT card?
A. Delays can occur due to weekends, holidays, fraud, or recertification issues. Check your transaction history and contact your local office.
Q. How can I protect my EBT card from fraud?
A. Regularly check your balance, update your PIN, and report any suspicious transactions immediately.
Q. How often should I use my EBT card to keep benefits active?
A. You must use your EBT card at least once every nine months to avoid suspension.
Q. What should I do if my EBT card is lost or stolen?
A. Report it immediately to your state’s EBT customer service and request a replacement card.