EBT Chip/Tap Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Frequently Asked Questions about the new EBT Chip/Tap payments launched in 2026

Haven't received a Chip/Tap EBT Card? Request one on DTA Connect! 

What is happening?

Over the summer, DTA upgraded to new chip/tap EBT cards.  DTA mailed a new chip/tap card to every DTA client.  If you are a DTA client, you should have already received your new card. The chip/tap card will replace your old EBT card.  

You must activate your new chip/tap card by November 29, 2026, before your old card stops working.   

DTA changed to chip/tap cards because they are more secure. The new cards have a microchip that provides a safer transaction process. You can use your new chip/tap card by either inserting the chip or tapping the card to pay. Some retailers may still require you to swipe your new chip/tap card.  

How do I activate my new chip/tap EBT card?

Activating your card is easy. You can either: 

• Make a purchase online or in-person using your new card; or 
• Call 1-800-997-2555 and set a new PIN. 

What happens if I don’t use my new chip/tap EBT card by November 29, 2026?

If you have not activated your new chip/tap card by 11/29/26, your old non-chip card will stop working on 11/29/26.  Then, you will not be able to access benefits until you receive and activate your new chip/tap card. 

I didn’t get my new chip/tap card, or I lost it. How do I get a new one?

 If you have not received a chip/tap EBT card, please request a replacement card immediately. There is no fee for requesting a replacement chip/tap EBT card. 

Get a new card by: 

• Requesting a replacement card through DTA Connect; or 

• Calling EBT Customer Service at 1-800-997-2555. After validating your identity by entering your EBT card number and PIN, press 2 for the Main Menu, then press 4 to request a replacement card. 

Once you receive your new card, you must still activate it by making a purchase or calling 1-800-997-2555 to set a new PIN. 

IMPORTANT: As soon as you request a replacement card, your old card will be deactivated (which means that it will stop working). Once your old EBT card is deactivated, it cannot be turned back on.  

You can shop online using your new card information while you wait for it to arrive in the mail. However, you will not be able to shop in-person until your new EBT card arrives. It may take 5-7 days to receive your replacement card by mail, so please make sure you plan ahead when requesting a replacement EBT card.. 

Which stores accept the new card?

Visit DTA's list of stores that accept chip/tap EBT cards.

What does the new card look like?

The new chip/tap card has a microchip and tap symbol, pictured below:

What should I do with my non-chip EBT card?

Activating your new chip/tap EBT card will automatically deactivate your previous non-chip card. Discard your old non-chip card once you have set up a new PIN or made a purchase using your new chip/tap card.   

Should I continue to keep locking my EBT card?

Although chip/tap EBT cards are more secure, you should still protect your benefits by locking your EBT card when not in use.

Will the new chip/tap EBT cards have an accessibility feature?

A notching feature (when a groove is made on the edge of a card to help it be more easily identifiable) is available for clients who are blind, have low vision, or anyone who wants an easier way to identify their card.  Visit a TAO or contact a Client Assistance Coordinator (CAC) at your local office to have this feature added to your card.  

How will authorized representative and payee cards be updated?

If you are an authorized representative and/or payee, visit your local DTA office in person to get a chip/tap EBT card. 

I work with DTA clients – how can I help?

If you work with DTA clients, you can help by making sure clients activate their cards by 11/29/26. See below for a handout and poster that you can use when talking to clients. 

Note: For a digitally accessible option, select the 11x17 version titled "Chip/Tap Activation Signage." For a standard printer-friendly option, select the 8.5x11 option titled "Chip/Tap Activation Signage 8.5x11 (Print-Only)."