Richland County Residents Alarmed by Rising Theft of SNAP Benefits from EBT Cards

Richland County Residents Face Increasing Theft of SNAP Benefits

Richland County, S.C. — It’s a troubling trend that has families feeling uneasy. While the number of reported cases remains relatively low, there’s a growing concern about the theft of SNAP benefits from EBT cards. Residents have taken to Facebook watch groups to share their experiences, and it’s shedding light on a serious issue affecting those who rely on these benefits for their daily meals.

As of Wednesday afternoon, the South Carolina Department of Social Services (DSS) had only received a few reports of stolen SNAP benefits statewide. However, just a handful of incidents can send ripples through the community, affecting families who look to these welfare benefits as their lifeline.

A Shocking Discovery

One local mother, Bre Williams, shared her shock and despair when she discovered her EBT card had been compromised. “I couldn’t believe my eyes when I realized my main source for food had been stolen,” she described. It didn’t stop there; Williams was informed that the investigation could take up to three weeks, leaving her family in a challenging position.

New Legislation Offers Support

In response to rising concern over SNAP fraud, President Biden signed the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023 into law back in December 2022. The new legislation is a game-changer for SNAP recipients who face theft. It authorizes federal funds to replace benefits stolen through various methods like card skimming and cloning. This is especially important since it covers benefits stolen on or after October 1, 2022, and will be in effect until September 30, 2024.

Previously, DSS had no means to replace stolen benefits, which left many families scrambling without essential support. This new law promises to provide relief to those impacted by these thefts, helping them restore their food access more swiftly.

Steps to Report Theft

For families facing this unfortunate experience, DSS has outlined specific actions to take if your SNAP benefits have been stolen. Reporting the theft is a crucial first step. You can visit the South Carolina Department of Social Services website for detailed instructions. This is important for kicking off the process to possibly receive replacement benefits.

When you report a theft, it’s required to order a new EBT card. DSS will check this new card against your affidavit during processing. It’s also essential to note that once your EBT card has been replaced following a theft report, DSS will not issue another new card.

Wise Protection Tips

To help prevent theft of your EBT card and benefits, DSS officials recommend following guidance from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). A few simple precautions can go a long way!

• Inspect the Card Reader: Before using your EBT card, take a moment to check the card reader. If it seems loose or wobbly, refrain from using it and report any suspicious devices to the store manager.
• Change Your PIN: It’s best practice to update your EBT PIN at least once a month, ideally before you receive your next benefits. This minimizes the risk of unauthorized access.
• Be Wary of Scams: Stay alert for unsolicited calls or texts asking for your PIN or card number. Remember, legitimate state agencies will never request such sensitive information in this manner.
• Regular Account Checks: Frequently check your EBT account for unauthorized transactions. If you catch any suspicious activity, immediately change your PIN and reach out to your local SNAP office for help.

These steps can be vital in protecting your benefits against theft. By staying vigilant and informed, families in Richland County can better safeguard their SNAP benefits and ensure their needs are met amidst this concerning trend.