SNAP Benefits Stolen But State Government Says There's No More Funds to Give Back

People who count on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) for buying food need assistance now more than ever. SNAP benefits, which help families buy groceries, are being stolen. Unfortunately, the government money that used to give back stolen benefits has run out.

For the past few years, criminals have found ways to illegally take these benefits, a crime known as 'skimming' among others.

One resident of New Britain, Grace Perry, shared her experience. She was shocked to find her Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card declined when she tried buying groceries, even though she had just gotten her March benefits. 

Almost $500 of her benefits, which included some saved from the last month, were stolen in the early hours and spent in Pennsylvania. "This card has been in my wallet all the time. I've never let anyone else use it," Perry explained.

Sadly, Perry is not alone. Since the start of 2023, a total of $6,363,297 in SNAP benefits have been stolen in Connecticut. "With food prices going up, this problem feels even worse," said Jason Jakubowski of Connecticut Foodshare, an organization that offers help through 600 food pantries across the state. However, this help is only a fraction of what SNAP provides.

To keep safe from theft, the state recommends: 
 

• Creating complex PINs
• Keeping your PIN and card number secret
• Being cautious about scams ('phishing')
• Changing your PIN monthly or even after every purchase
• Checking your EBT account often for charges you don't recognize
• Reporting any suspicious activity

Despite taking precautions and changing her PIN monthly as advised, Perry's funds were still taken. She's now advised to change her PIN after every purchase.

The state had been able to replace almost $6 million in stolen funds since 2023 thanks to federal support, but this program ended on December 20. 

Now, leaders are urging the federal government to provide more funds. These would go toward investigating thefts, increasing card security, and helping states move to more secure chip cards.

Check you: What to Expect with Food Assistance Programs in 2025

Senator Richard Blumenthal's office in Connecticut says discussions for new budget plans are underway. He supports a bill aiming to make SNAP reimbursement a lasting solution.

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