AZ Department of Economic Security approved to replace stolen EBT benefits

Families and individuals affected by card skimming, card cloning, and phishing scams will be able to get assistance with new process and plan

PHOENIX (KYMA, KECY) - The Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) announced a new process to replace Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and/or TANF Cash Assistance benefits stolen from Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards.

“We are grateful to now have the ability to replace stolen benefits to individuals and families who need it most,” said DES Director Angie Rodgers. “We appreciate the collaboration and approval of Arizona’s plan by the U. S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food and Nutrition Services and look forward to working with impacted and eligible EBT cardholders to replace their stolen benefits.”

According to DES, the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023 included a provision for states to reimburse stolen SNAP benefits.

Before, Arizona was not able to replace stolen SNAP Benefits and now the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service has approved this new plan.

DES said the Administration of Children and Families allowed states to align their TANF plan with the approved SNAP plan to replace stolen TANF Cash Assistance benefits.

Families or individuals who had SNAP or TANF benefits stolen from October 1, 2022, to June 18, 2023, are able to submit a claim for replacement benefits through September 18, 2023.

Those who have their SNAP or TANF benefits stolen from June 19, 2023, through September 30, 2024, have 45 days from the date of theft to submit a claim for replacement benefits.

To report and request replacement of stolen benefits can see the options below:

• Call +1 (833) 786-8823
• Complete the Electronic Benefit Theft Replacement Request Form (FAA-1847A). The completed and signed form may be returned by any of the following methods:
  • Mail to DES PO Box 19009 Phoenix, AZ 85005-9009
  • Fax to (602) 257-7031 or toll-free to +1 (844) 680-9840
  • In person at any DES Family Assistance Administration (FAA) office.

For more information about EBT cards, including how to prevent or report EBT theft or fraud, please visit their website.