If your SNAP benefits were stolen between October 1, 2022, and December 20, 2024, there’s still time to request reimbursement—but that window is closing fast. Thanks to provisions in two major federal spending bills, affected households were able to recover lost funds caused by EBT card skimming, cloning, or other fraud.
However, starting December 21, 2024, federal reimbursements are no longer available for new cases.
Here’s everything you need to know about eligibility, deadlines, and what happens moving forward.
Timeline
Theft of SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits has surged in recent years, largely due to widespread fraud tactics like card skimming and data cloning. In response, Congress included a temporary federal reimbursement program as part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, which covered theft from October 1, 2022, to September 30, 2024.
Later, the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2025 extended that coverage to include thefts occurring up through December 20, 2024.
But in 2025, Congress failed to reauthorize the federal replacement program, meaning:
- Theft reported after December 20, 2024, is no longer eligible for federal reimbursement.
- Households must now turn to state programs, which are optional and vary by state.
What Was Covered
Under the federal replacement policy, households could get SNAP benefits reimbursed if they were stolen through:
- Card skimming
- Card cloning
- Other forms of EBT fraud
Recipients had to file a claim with their state’s SNAP agency and provide evidence (like transaction history or fraud reports). In many cases, stolen amounts were replaced within 10 business days if approved.
What’s Changing Now
Starting December 21, 2024, the USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) no longer has federal funding to reimburse states for stolen SNAP benefits. That doesn’t mean you’re totally out of luck—but recovery now depends on state-level policies.
Some states may choose to replace stolen benefits with their own funds, but:
- It’s optional—states are not required to cover losses
- There’s no guarantee of reimbursement
- State agencies may use stricter rules or slower processes
State Agencies
To combat SNAP fraud, the USDA and FNS have rolled out EBT chip cards, which offer better security against data skimming and physical cloning. These cards are gradually being introduced in several states, but full implementation is still in progress.
In the meantime, the USDA urges state agencies to:
- Notify SNAP households about the end of federal reimbursements
- Provide education and tools on how to safeguard EBT cards
- Support recipients with fraud reporting hotlines and application assistance
How to Protect
While federal replacement may be gone, here’s how you can avoid being the next victim:
- Check your balance often via official apps or phone lines
- Don’t share your PIN or card with anyone
- Cover the keypad when entering your PIN at a store
- Report suspicious activity immediately to your state’s SNAP office
Even if your state offers no reimbursement, reporting fraud helps investigators track trends and potentially prevent more thefts in your area.
Still Eligible?
If your benefits were stolen between October 1, 2022, and December 20, 2024, you may still be eligible for federal reimbursement—but act fast. Each state has its own deadline for submitting claims, and once those pass, the opportunity is lost.
Check your state SNAP agency’s website or contact them directly to start the process.
FAQs
Can I still get reimbursed for stolen SNAP?
Yes, if the theft occurred before December 20, 2024.
What if my SNAP was stolen after December 20, 2024?
Federal funds won’t cover it, but some states may reimburse.
How do I report SNAP fraud?
Contact your state’s SNAP agency and file a fraud report.
What are EBT chip cards?
They’re secure cards being introduced to fight SNAP fraud.
Can states still cover stolen SNAP benefits?
Yes, but using state funds and at their own discretion.
