Beware of EBT Theft and Scams
EBT Skimming occurs when a thief places a device on a retailer's card-swiping machine to copy your EBT card information so they can steal your EBT benefits.
EBT Scamming occurs when a thief deceives you into giving out your personal information so they can steal your EBT benefits. Personal information includes your EBT card number, EBT PIN number, social security number, or bank information.
If you think your benefits may have been stolen, you should immediately call the customer service telephone number on the back of your EBT card, 877-328-9677, and the county office at 916-874-3100 or 209-744-0499.
In addition to calling to report EBT theft you must turn in a completed EBT 2259 to the county office.
- For benefits stolen through EBT skimming complete form EBT 2259.
- For benefits stolen through an EBT scam complete forms EBT 2259 and EBT 2259A.
EBT 2259 - English or Spanish
EBT 2259A - English or Spanish
California has been experiencing an increase in the occurrence of Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) theft. The California Department of Social Services is providing security tips and information on how to protect your benefits that can be found on their website: English or Spanish