To Activate Your New EBT Card, Check the back of your EBT card for a customer service number. Dial the number. Select the option to “Activate Your Card.”
🛠Steps to Activate Your New EBT Card:
Locate the Toll-Free Number
Call the Customer Service Line
Dial the number and follow the automated prompts.
Select the option to “Activate Your Card.”
Verify Your Identity
You may need to provide:
Your card number (located on the front of the card).
Your Social Security Number (SSN) or other identifying information.
Your date of birth.
Set Your PIN (Personal Identification Number)
Follow the instructions to create a 4-digit PIN.
Ensure the PIN is easy for you to remember but hard for others to guess.
Confirm Activation
Once activated, you’ll receive confirmation over the phone.
The card is now ready for use at participating retailers and ATMs.
💳 Activation Online (If Available)
Some states provide an online activation portal:
Visit your state’s EBT website (e.g., ebtedge.com).
Log in or create an account.
Navigate to the card activation section and follow prompts.
Key Things to Remember about EBT Chip Cards:
- Chip First, Then Swipe (if necessary): When using your new chip card at a store, always try to insert the card into the POS terminal’s chip reader first. If that doesn’t work, the terminal might prompt you to tap (if contactless is enabled) or swipe the magnetic stripe.
- Your PIN Stays the Same (for replacement cards): If you’re receiving a new chip card as a replacement for an older EBT card, your existing PIN will usually transfer over, and you might not need to set a new one during activation. However, it’s always a good idea to confirm.
- Benefits Transfer Automatically: Your existing benefits from your previous EBT card will automatically transfer to your new chip card.
- Keep Your PIN Secret: Never share your PIN with anyone. Cover the keypad when entering your PIN at a store or ATM.
- Beware of Scams: EBT agencies will never call, text, or email you asking for your PIN or full card number. Be very wary of any communication asking for this information.
Check Your Balance:
You can check your EBT balance by:
- Looking at your most recent grocery store receipt.
- Checking your online EBT account.
- Calling the customer service number on the back of your card.
- Using an EBT mobile app (if your state has one).
If you encounter any issues during activation, or if you lose your card, contact your state’s EBT customer service helpline immediately. The number is usually on the back of your card or readily available on your state’s public assistance website.
