Same Day EBT Card Replacement

An EBT Card can be lost or misplaced, leaving many in the limbo of how to get a new one. The process of replacing an EBT card can be frustrating and at times, confusing. It makes sense that when the EBT Card is lost or stolen, many people would think they cannot replace it. The truth is, they can!  

You can replace your EBT Card on the same day you lost it. Here’s is how to go about it:

First, check with your local Department of Human Services office to see if there is an EBT Card replacement location near you.  If there is not a place for you to go, contact the Check/Update Center at 1-888-355-9961. They will help you find a location in your area that can issue you another EBT Card. 

Second, go directly to the location that can help you. Do not leave a replacement card to be sent to you in the mail – even if they tell you they will.  You do not need to wait for a card to arrive in the mail because it may never get there.

Third, verify your identity and complete a Verification Form (VSF).  Your local office can give you one of these forms, or you can get one online. If possible, bring proof of your identity.  Examples include a Social Security Card, birth certificate, or any other type of photo identification card from another state or country (as long as it has not expired).

Finally, the office will process your request and you will leave with your card the very same day. Do not leave the office without your EBT Card.  You could be responsible for giving a recipient their benefits. If you do not pick up your card, your benefits will be delayed until you do get a replacement EBT Card.

Who Cannot Submit A Request To Replace An EBT Card?

EBT Replacement Requests cannot be submitted by: 

Anyone who has not qualified with the state; Anyone under 18 years of age; or Anyone who is currently receiving benefits as part of a federal/state disaster relief program.  

Requirements To Qualify 

Requirements to qualify you also include: 

You need to be an Eligible Requestor (someone who qualifies for benefits); and You need to be physically present at your local SNAP Benefits Office when filling out the request form.  

Benefits offices will now require you to provide some personal information to fill out a request for an EBT replacement. This is why you must have your photo ID. The following documents will also be required: 

Driver’s license or in other states of residence ID card; Social Security number (SSN); Birthdate; and EBT card number.  

If you meet all the requirements, then your EBT card will be replaced on the same day you come in to apply. But if you fail to produce these documents, your request will be denied. A lot of people are not aware that it is possible to receive a replacement EBT Card on the same day — so don’t hesitate to prevent yourself from being without food for too long. Just submit your request quickly.

Benefits Of Same Day EBT Card Replacement

So, what are the benefits of replacing your EBT Card the same day you lost it? Well, for starters, you don’t have to worry about being starved the next day. You also don’t have to worry about paying a visit to your local food bank or calling another human being from Readjustment Counseling Services (RCS) and begging them – it’s embarrassing.

Aside from these two major benefits, there are some other practical upsides too. For instance, you can get back on SNAP as soon as possible so your family doesn’t go hungry; this may also be a good idea if there is a member of your household who has special dietary needs that the current card might provide.

The New Policy

Eligibility workers may no longer issue a replacement card when a client loses or damages their card or fails to return it upon completion of the investigation into suspected fraud. Instead, the client must go to an eligibility office near to them and apply in person for a new one. This means that there is no more express mail service for replacement cards and no more phone service either.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is possible to replace your EBT Card on the same day you lost it so long as you have all the appropriate documents with you at that time and in order.