All chip and tap-enabled cards have been mailed statewide; clients should use their card within 60 days

All chip and tap-enabled cards have been mailed statewide; clients should use their card within 60 days

BOSTON – Massachusetts has become the fourth state in the nation to roll out chip and tap-enabled Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards statewide to enhance security and better prevent theft across the system, including for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

"Families across Massachusetts rely on DTA programs to afford groceries and other essential goods. We're focused on preventing fraud and theft so that these funds are going to the people who need and deserve them," said Governor Healey. "Massachusetts is proud to be leading the nation when it comes to the security and integrity of our EBT programs."

"Having a chip and tap-to-pay option on our EBT cards means a safer way to access benefits people use to keep their families fed and is one more tool in our arsenal that supports our ongoing commitment to safeguarding public funds," said DTA Commissioner Michael Cole.

To activate, clients should use their card within 60 days of receiving it. More information on the new chip/tap cards can be found online here. 

In order to have as little disruption to clients as possible, DTA has closely collaborated with retailers for months to ensure they are prepared for this transition, and the vast majority of retailers statewide are prepared to accept the new cards. As SNAP retailers update their systems to accept insert or tap transactions, some retailers may require customers to swipe their card. This does not mean that the card is broken or defective, but that the store has not yet updated its systems. More information for retailers is available here.

In addition to rolling out these cards, DTA has already implemented several features to protect EBT benefits, which include:

•       Card lock/unlock technology using the DTA Connect mobile application and the Cardholder Customer Service Line

•       Providing an EBT card safety flyer with every EBT card issued that contains information on how to lock/unlock your card

•       Encouraging clients to regularly change their PIN