What to know about the new chip-enabled EBT cards

New chip-enabled EBT cards are coming to more states. California was the first state to begin issuing the new cards in 2025, and other states, including Alabama and New Jersey, have followed.

The new cards can better protect your SNAP benefits from EBT theft because they don’t need to be swiped through a card reader. If your state is sending out chip-enabled EBT cards, here’s what you need to know about how they work, when your old card expires, and what to expect.

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What is a chip-enabled EBT card?#what-is-a-chip-enabled-ebt-card

A chip-enabled EBT card is a new version of existing EBT cards. While most current EBT cards only have a magnetic stripe on the back, the new cards also include a security chip, similar to the chip found on most debit and credit cards.

The chip adds an extra layer of protection by making it much harder for thieves to copy your card information using a card skimmer.

In some states, these new chip-enabled cards also support tap-to-pay, allowing you to tap your card instead of inserting or swiping it at compatible checkout devices.

All of your existing benefits will transfer automatically to the new chip-enabled EBT card.

Which states have chip EBT cards?#which-states-have-chip-ebt-cards

Chip-enabled EBT cards are being rolled out state by state.

As of July 2026, these states have issued the new cards, meaning SNAP recipients should expect their new cards within a few weeks of the change:

Alabama, California, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, and Oklahoma

As of July 2026, these states have not yet issued the new EBT cards but are actively working toward it:

Arkansas, New York, Oregon, and Virginia

If you live in any other state, there's currently no announced plan for a chip card in your state—you'll keep using your existing magnetic-stripe card until your state announces one.

How do I activate my new chip card?#how-do-i-activate-my-new-chip-card

To activate your new chip-enabled EBT card, you'll likely need to do one of three things:

1. Use it: your first tap/insert/swipe with your existing PIN activates it
2. Call in: you call customer service and set a new PIN
3. Log in online: activate it through your state's EBT portal or app

For states that have already issued the new cards, check the table below for your state activation instructions and see how many days you have before your old card automatically deactivates.

Why are states making this change?#why-are-states-making-this-change

The main reason for the new cards is to help prevent EBT theft.

Current EBT cards only have a magnetic stripe, which can be copied using skimming devices placed on card readers. Thieves can use the stolen card information to access your SNAP benefits.

Chip-enabled EBT cards are much harder to copy, making this type of theft more difficult. While the new cards won’t stop all types of fraud, they’re designed to better protect your SNAP benefits.

What should I do if I receive a new chip card?#what-should-i-do-if-i-receive-a-new-chip-card

If you are receiving a new chip EBT card, there are a few things you should do:

• Make sure your mailing address is current with your SNAP office so your new card is sent to the right place.
• Read the instructions included with the card before activating it.
• Activate your new card as soon as you're instructed to.
• Keep your EBT PIN private and choose one that's difficult for others to guess.
• Destroy your old EBT card after your new one is activated.

Will the new chip card work at every store?#will-the-new-chip-card-work-at-every-store

The new chip-enabled card should work anywhere that accepts EBT, but some stores may take time to update their checkout equipment for chip or tap-to-pay transactions. If a store's chip reader isn't ready yet, you may still be able to use the card by swiping the magnetic stripe.

Continue to keep your EBT card protected#continue-to-keep-your-ebt-card-protected

Even with a chip-enabled card, it's still a good idea to change your PIN regularly and report suspicious activity as soon as possible. If EBT card-locking is available in your state, use it whenever you're not actively shopping.