Qualifying for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or SNAP provides the individual with an EBT or Electronic Benefits Transfer card.
Cash benefits for this program are loaded onto the card. The cards can then be utilized at retailers to purchase food and related products. Balance checks and other related information can be accessed via the website or even by contacting the customer service hotline.
The basics of the program are mostly similar all around, but may vary slightly depending on the specific state.
Easy ways to make use of the EBT card
EBT cards are only eligible for use at authorized convenience or grocery stores. A good identifying factor is the Quest logo, which should be displayed at the store.
An important factor to note is that these cards cannot be used at liquor stores, gambling facilities, or those places that offer adult-related entertainment. In the same manner, it helps to familiarise oneself with the products that can be purchased.
These usually include fresh food items such as vegetables, fruits, dairy products, meat, breads, cereals, etc. The website usually offers quite an extensive list detailing all the products that are open for purchase. The EBT cards work very similarly to a debit card. Once the products are rung up at the checkout, the EBT card can be swiped. The individual will also be required to enter their four-digit PIN on the keypad to finalize the transaction.
New safety measures for EBT cards in Pennsylvania
The same as with a normal debit card, there are some safety risks involved with EBT, and the possibility does exist for an individual’s SNAP benefits to be stolen. According to a statement from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, a new security feature has been implemented. This new feature allows beneficiaries residing within the state to be able to lock their EBT cards when they are not in use.
As the SNAP benefits fulfil an important need, it is that much severe when these benefits are unlawfully taken away. This new locking feature also prevents theft and card skimming from taking place. These measures come amidst recent incidents where individuals fell victim to card-skimming. This was after the individuals used their EBT cards at point-of-sale machines where someone had attached skimming devices.
The OSIG and DHS security partnership
The whole drive behind this safety system came from a partnership between the Office of the State Inspector General (OSIG) and the Department of Human Services (DHS). OSIG has also confirmed its commitment to protect this benefit program for residents of Pennsylvania. State Inspector General Michelle Henry stated that:
“The new card lock feature is one way SNAP recipients can protect their benefits against theft and continue to put food on their table. OSIG is proud to partner with DHS on the announcment of the EBT card lock feature which provides an extra layer of security for these life-sustaining benbefits.”
This feature is available through the free ConnectEBT system. The system can be downloaded on Google Play, Apple, or directly from the website. After this has been done. There is an easy facility that allows quick lock or unlock options.
Locking the card only for use at stores outside Pennsylvania still allows internet purchases and in-state purchases. Locking the card everywhere will prevent any purchases anywhere, whether online or in-store. The system also has an automatic re-lock feature, which is activated either 90, 60, or 30 minutes after an unlock.
Beneficiaries are also encouraged to change PINs monthly as a further means of security. SNAP benefits are an essential lifeline to individuals. Having these unlawfully taken away seems a cruel reality that faces individuals. Initiatives such as the above aim to provide a relevant measure of protection for this system.
