Tips for Safeguarding State Benefits
By Canton CitizenLocal and state officials have reported seeing an uptick in cases involving the theft of cash benefits from programs such as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance (SNAP) and Transitional Aid to Families with Dependent Children (TAFDC).
Since the summer of 2022, thousands of Massachusetts families have had their benefits stolen through organized card-skimming schemes. SNAP benefits are particularly vulnerable to theft because the benefit (EBT) cards use a magnetic stripe, which can expose sensitive data to card skimmers — small devices that can be hidden on store card readers to copy information.
What’s more, as of December 21, federal funding will no longer be available for replacement of stolen SNAP benefits after Congress opted not to extend the program. Due to the expiration of this provision, the state Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA), which administers SNAP and other benefits programs, is ramping up its outreach efforts to guard against scams and theft.
DTA suggests the following in order to keep your benefits safe:
* Change your EBT card PIN monthly before each time you get your DTA benefits. You can do this by calling DTA Customer Service at 800-997-2555 or by visiting a local DTA office.
* If you receive TAFDC benefits, you can call your case manager to ask about having your benefits deposited to your bank account.
* Never provide your personal information, EBT card number, or PIN to unidentified callers, or to a link provided via text or email.
* You can now lock and unlock your EBT card either through DTAConnect.com or the DTA Connect mobile app. For step-by-step instructions, see mass.gov/info-details/protect-your-benefits-from-scams.
* If you think that your benefits have been stolen, you should report this to DTA as you might be able to get the stolen benefits replaced. Claims can be filed by calling 833-602-9247 or by completing the online claim form at mass.gov/how-to/report-stolen-benefits-to-dta.
Canton residents in need of assistance changing their pin or reporting fraud are welcome to contact DEHS social workers Vicky DiMaria or Alex Benjamin at 781-828-1323.
Short URL: https://www.thecantoncitizen.com/?p=130986
Posted by Canton Citizen
on Jan 17 2025. Filed under Featured Content.
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