Replacement Benefits FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Replacement Benefits.

How to get TAFDC/EAEDC Replacement Benefits:

Since 2022, there have been reports of fraudulent activity impacting individuals and families who receive SNAP and TAFDC/EAEDC benefits across the Commonwealth. These has mainly been through skimming and phishing schemes.

1. How can I get my stolen benefits replaced?

If your TAFDC/EAEDC benefits have been stolen electronically, request a replacement in one of the following ways:

• Complete the online Claim for Replacement of Stolen Benefits form
• Call the Fraud Line at 833-602-9247 or the DTA Assistance Line at [phone]
• Download the Claim for Replacement Benefits Form form and mail the completed form to: 
  • DTA Connect upload​​​
  • Mail to:
                DTA Program Integrity
                Fraud Investigation Unit
                P.O. Box 4411
                Taunton, MA 02780-0435
  • Fax to the Fraud Investigation Unit at: [phone]
  • In person at a local DTA office, 

Federal law authorized reimbursement for stolen SNAP benefits for any benefits stolen before December 20, 2024. Congress did not extend this deadline, which means SNAP benefits stolen after December 20, 2024, cannot be reimbursed. Clients whose SNAP benefits were stolen after this date should still file a stolen benefits report. This is important should additional funding become available in the future.

2. When will I get a replacement TAFDC/EAEDC payment?

DTA will attempt to confirm what happened. If DTA is able to verify that your benefits were stolen electronically, DTA will issue replacement benefits for the amount you’re eligible for as quickly as possible, likely within a couple weeks.

If you told DTA your benefits were stolen and you have not gotten replacement benefits within two weeks, call the Fraud Line at 833-602-9247 or email [e-mail].

3. Will DTA replace all of my stolen cash benefits?

Yes. DTA will replace the full amount of TAFDC/EAEDC benefits that were confirmed stolen.

Protect your DTA Benefits

How can I protect my benefits from fraud?

To protect your benefits:

• Keep your EBT card locked at all times until you need to use it. Learn how to lock and unlock your EBT Card on the DTA Connect Mobile App and DTAConnect.com.
• Change your EBT card PIN before each time you get your DTA benefits.
• If you get TAFDC or EAEDC, you can call your case manager to ask about having your benefits deposited to your bank account. Their contact information is available on DTA Connect.
• Never provide your personal information, EBT card number, or Personal Identification Number (PIN) to unidentified callers, or to a link provided via text or email.

If you think your card and benefits have been stolen, tell DTA right away and change your PIN.

If you are ever unsure or uneasy about who you are talking to, end the call and reach out to DTA by calling the DTA Assistance Line at [phone]. DTA staff will never ask for your EBT card number or PIN.

For more information on potential scams and how to best protect your benefits, visit Mass.gov/ProtectYourEBT and Mass.gov/ProtejaSuEBT.

Date published:	May 11, 2023