What is happening?
As part of an ongoing effort to maximize EBT security, DTA will be upgrading to chip/tap EBT cards. These new EBT cards have a microchip embedded in them to provide a more secure and safer transaction process. You can use your new chip/tap card by either inserting the chip or tapping the card to pay. Certain retailers may still require you to swipe your new chip/tap card.
How will I get my new EBT card?
Your new chip/tap EBT card will be mailed to you. You do not need to visit a Transitional Assistance Office or call DTA to receive a chip/tap card. Your card will be mailed in an envelope from an out-of-state address and will have a slightly different design than your non-chip card. When you receive your new chip/tap card in the mail, open the envelope immediately and activate your new card within 60 days.
How do I activate my new chip/tap EBT card?
To activate your card, make an online or in-store purchase using your current PIN or call the EBT Customer Service Line at 800-997-2555 to set up a new PIN.
How can I make sure DTA has my current mailing address?
You should make sure that your mailing address is up to date. You can view and update your address on DTA Connect. If you update your residential address, your benefits may go down if you don't send DTA proof of your new shelter and utility costs.
What happens if I don’t use my new chip/tap EBT card within 60 days?
Your current non-chip card will still work for up to 60 days after the chip/tap card is mailed to you, or until you activate your replacement. After 60 days, if you don’t use your new chip/tap card, your old non-chip card will be automatically deactivated.
Will I be charged a replacement fee?
No. Because DTA is initiating this replacement, you will not be charged a fee for your first chip/tap EBT card.
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.
What if my new EBT card gets lost or stolen?
If your chip/tap EBT card gets lost or is stolen, you can request a new one via:
- EBT Customer Service Line (800-997-2555),
- DTA Assistance Line (877-382-2363),
- DTA Connect portal and the DTA Connect app,
- Visiting a local DTA office, or
- In writing by mail or fax.
Will all retailers accept my new chip/tap EBT card?
Almost all retailers will accept your new chip/tap EBT card, but the process to complete a transaction may be different for each retailer. Some retailers may tell you to insert or tap your chip/tap EBT card. Other retailers may tell you to swipe your chip/tap EBT card like you do now. If you have to swipe your chip/tap card, this does not mean that your card is broken or defective.
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.