OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla.–With the rise in fraudulent activity targeting Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, Oklahoma Human Services is stepping in to support families who have been victims of theft.
Thanks to new legislation, SNAP households who’ve experienced benefit theft through skimming, cloning, phishing, or other fraudulent tactics can now apply for replacement benefits through December 20, 2024.
This opportunity is the result of the Continuing Appropriations Act of 2025, passed by Congress on September 25. It extends the provisions first introduced in the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023, allowing the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service (USDA-FNS) to reimburse stolen benefits between October 1, 2022, and September 30, 2024.
For thousands of low-income Oklahomans relying on SNAP to feed their families, the theft of these essential benefits can be devastating.
“SNAP customers rely on their benefits to provide food for their families,” said Deb Smith, Deputy Director of Oklahoma Human Services. “This new law helps ensure families who experience theft can still feed their children, even when criminals try to take their benefits.”
How to Apply for Benefit Replacement
SNAP households who have lost benefits due to fraud can submit claims by:
- Phone: Call 405-522-5050
- In-person: Visit a local Human Services Center
- Mail: Send a claim to Oklahoma Human Services, SNAP, PO Box 25352, Oklahoma City, OK 73125
Oklahoma Human Services emphasizes that the date of claim submission is considered the date of report. To qualify, reports must be made within 30 days of discovering the theft.
Agency staff will assist households in completing the necessary forms when contacted, ensuring the process is as smooth as possible. However, households are only eligible for up to two replacements per fiscal year, and the replacement amount cannot exceed two months’ worth of benefits.
Preventing Future Theft
To protect against future theft, Oklahoma Human Services urges SNAP customers to treat their EBT cards with the same care as debit or credit cards.
Fraudsters have become increasingly sophisticated, using skimming devices and phishing schemes to steal benefits. Here are some steps you can take to protect your account:
- Change your PIN often: It’s easy to change your PIN by calling 1-888-328-6551 or visiting ConnectEBT.com. Be sure to avoid simple PINs like “1111” or “1234.”
- Keep your PIN private: Don’t share your PIN with anyone outside your household. Always cover the keypad when entering your PIN at a store.
- Monitor your account: Use the ConnectEBT app to regularly check for unauthorized transactions. If you see any, change your PIN immediately to block the thief from making further purchases.
- Lock your card between purchases: Through the ConnectEBT app, you can lock and unlock your card, preventing unauthorized use when you’re not shopping. Instructions on how to do this are available on Oklahoma Human Services’ YouTube channel.
- Be cautious at the register: Always check the card reader for anything unusual before swiping your card. If something looks off, alert the retailer and avoid using the machine.
- Don’t fall for scams: If you receive a text or call from an unknown number asking for your personal information—like your Social Security number, EBT card number, or PIN—don’t respond. Scammers often pose as official agencies to steal your details. Oklahoma Human Services will never ask for this information via text or phone.
Additionally, SNAP customers are encouraged not to accumulate large balances on their EBT cards, as thieves can wipe out all available funds in one transaction if the card is compromised.
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SNAP Relief for Oklahoma’s Vulnerable Families
This extension of support comes at a crucial time, as more families are relying on SNAP benefits amid economic uncertainty. For those who have been impacted by theft, knowing that there’s a path to recover their lost benefits is a relief.
If you feel you’ve been targeted by fraud, contact Oklahoma Human Services at 405-522-5050. The agency is committed to helping families navigate this difficult time and ensuring that every eligible household receives the support they deserve.
For those not currently receiving SNAP benefits but interested in applying, visit OKDHSLive.org for more information.
