DHR: New features available for EBT cards

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – The Alabama Department of Human Resources (DHR) is pleased to announce the newest feature for EBT cards and SNAP clients. The EBT cards now have a Lock/Unlock and alert feature available on the ConnectEBT app and website. This feature will allow EBT cardholders the ability to lock and unlock their EBT cards to prevent fraudsters from making in-store or online purchases.

EBT cardholders can also sign up for alerts on the app and website.  These alerts include account activity alerts through text, the ConnectEBT app and/or via email.  Using these combined controls will further assist cardholders and give clients additional controls to help prevent fraud of EBT benefits.

To use this feature, clients can choose one of the options below:

ConnectEBT app

1. Download the app
2. Create an account or log in with your user ID and password.                
3. The “Lock/Unlock” option will be displayed on the home screen
4. Select the “Lock/Unlock” option
5. Client can select one of the following:
   1. “Lock Card Everywhere” – This option will lock your card at ALL stores, including online. This is the DHR recommendation.
   1. “Lock Card” – This option will lock your card at ALL stores outside of Alabama, but allows online purchases

 ConnectEBT website

1. Visit connectebt.com
2. Create an account or log in with your user ID and password
3. On the home screen, click the tab labeled “Card”
4. Select “Lock/Unlock” option
5. Clients can select from one of the following:
   1. “Lock Card Everywhere” – This option will lock your card at ALL stores, including online. This is the DHR recommendation.
   1. “Lock Card” – This option will lock your card at ALL stores outside of Alabama, but allows online purchases

DHR administers the SNAP program in Alabama. More information on the program can be found at https://dhr.alabama.gov/food-assistance.