EBT card theft is becoming a common issue in the United States, and Connecticut’s Department of Social Services (DSS) is urging recipients to take precautionary measures to safeguard their benefits. According to Dan Giacomi, the director of Program Oversight and Grant Administration at DSS, there has been an increase in reported thefts from EBT cards since a measure was passed in 2022 allowing stolen benefits to be replaced.
Giacomi highlighted the importance of staying vigilant as technology advances and the methods used by thieves evolve. He explained that there has been a rise in the reporting of EBT thefts since the measure was passed, but prior to this, many cases went unreported as there was no recourse for individuals who had their benefits stolen. While reimbursement for stolen benefits can take up to 30 days, DSS aims to expedite the process and replace benefits as quickly as possible to minimize the impact on recipients.
To protect their benefits, individuals are advised to change their account pin numbers monthly before benefits are deposited. If anyone notices missing benefits, they are encouraged to contact 1-888-328-2666 immediately to change their pin and report the theft. Benefit replacements can be requested through the DSS website or by calling the agency for assistance.
