Stolen SNAP Benefits? The Federal Government Doesn't Reimburse Anymore...
8 minutes
The USDA’s program to reimburse stolen SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits officially ended on Dec. 20, 2024, marking a significant shift for millions of low-income Americans who rely on this vital assistance. Since January 2023, the program had offered crucial protection, reimbursing stolen benefits through federal funds. However, with its expiration, households now face greater uncertainty.
This change comes at a time when food costs often rise, especially during the holiday season, leaving vulnerable families at a greater risk. The program’s closure leaves many recipients vulnerable to theft without the safety net they once relied on. For the first time in over two years, SNAP recipients will no longer have a federal guarantee that stolen benefits will be replaced.
As a result, millions of Americans, particularly those already struggling to make ends meet, will feel the impact. Here’s what you need to know about this major change, how it affects those who depend on SNAP, and what options are available moving forward.
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What was the previous policy, and why was it created?
Until recently, the government allowed federal funds to reimburse SNAP recipients for any stolen benefits. This program was introduced in response to a significant rise in fraud, especially through methods like card skimming and cloning. In 2022, reports of theft targeting SNAP recipients were increasing, highlighting the vulnerability of these low-income individuals and families who rely on benefits for food assistance.
In December 2022, Congress passed the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023, which allowed state agencies to replace stolen SNAP benefits — and then be reimbursed by federal funds. This temporary measure was designed to provide immediate relief for recipients while longer-term solutions, such as more secure chip-based cards, were being developed.
What happened to SNAP reimbursement, anyway?
The federal reimbursement program for stolen SNAP benefits expired on Dec. 20, 2024, due to the expiration of the authority granted by the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023. This authority was not renewed when the American Relief Act of 2025 was signed on Dec. 21, 2024.
As a result, as of Dec. 21, 2024, SNAP benefits stolen through fraud can no longer be replaced with federal funds. Although some states may choose to replace stolen benefits using state funds, there is no guarantee these replacements will be reimbursed at the federal level.
Will it come back? The possibility of the program returning depends on future Congressional action, but for now, there are no indications of an immediate plan for reinstating federal reimbursement.
How much is SNAP fraud costing recipients?
SNAP fraud has been a significant financial burden for many recipients. Over $150 million in stolen benefits have been replaced through the reimbursement program since its implementation in January 2023. In some regions, the problem continues to escalate.
For example, in December 2024, Cuyahoga County in Ohio saw a record 2,051 claims for stolen benefits, compared to just 33 in December 2023. As the theft issue persists, many low-income families face mounting risks of losing the benefits they depend on, particularly during times of economic strain such as the holiday season. Without federal reimbursement, those affected may face even greater financial hardship.
What should SNAP recipients do after this policy change?
With the expiration of the federal reimbursement program, SNAP recipients need to take proactive steps to protect their benefits from fraud. Here's a breakdown of the necessary actions:
General to-dos:
Switch to chip-based EBT cards for added security, as they are more resistant to cloning and skimming.
Freeze your EBT card when not in use and block certain transactions like out-of-state or online purchases to help prevent future theft.
Be cautious when using your card at unfamiliar locations to avoid skimming or cloning scams.
Stay informed about potential legislative changes and advocate for stronger fraud protections.
What to do if your benefits have been stolen:
Report any theft immediately to your local SNAP office or state agency to ensure timely action.
Change your EBT card PIN and request a new card to prevent further theft.
Use the Gateway EBT app or website to lock your card, preventing unauthorized transactions if possible.
File a claim with your state’s SNAP agency; even if federal reimbursement is disabled, some states may still choose to replace stolen benefits using state funds.
Keep records of claims for benefits stolen after Dec. 20, 2024, in case federal reimbursement authority is retroactively reinstated.
Seek emergency food assistance by contacting local food banks or community organizations if you’re left without food due to stolen benefits.