Change your pin, lock your card before SNAP benefits go out: State Rep. Harkins

(WJET/WFXP) — With benefits going out soon to SNAP recipients for the month, one Pennsylvania state representative is reminding recipients to take some more preventative measures.

State Rep. Pat Harkins is reminding SNAP recipients to lock their cards and change their PINs before benefits go out, citing the rising threat of benefit skimming and theft at checkouts and how they often wait until they go out to maximize how much is stolen.

Earlier this year, SNAP recipients in Erie and Crawford Counties fell victim to scammers using card skimmers to steal their benefits, which could not be reimbursed due to legislation passed by the General Assembly in December 2024.

“Our office remains committed to ensuring that the benefits our hardworking families rely on end up where they belong — in their wallets, not in the hands of criminals,” Harkins said. “By locking your EBT card and updating your PIN just before your benefit is loaded each month, you reduce the risk of thieves striking when balances are highest.”

SNAP cards can be locked out at any time using the ConnectEBT website or app and set to block all purchases everywhere or just ones outside of Pennsylvania where the card was used.

Harkins also recommended changing your PIN once a month and especially before benefits arrive, by calling the EBT Recipient Hotline at 1-888-EBT-PENN (1-888-328-7366) or using ConnectEBT or the myCOMPASS PA app.

Before making any purchases with your SNAP card, officials recommend inspecting card readers for things like unusual thickness or attachments glued/taped over it, loose edges you can gently pull to reveal hidden devices and missing security stickers or holograms.

If your SNAP benefits are stolen, you can report it to the inspector general’s office at 1-800-932-0582 and request a new one by calling Conduent at 1-888-328-7366 or your county assistance office.