Maryland EBT Reimbursement – 2023/24 Guide

If you’ve been a victim of EBT Fraud in Maryland and don’t know what to do about getting your money back, we can help. In this article, we will guide you through the Maryland EBT Reimbursement process and explain how to file a claim to restore your stolen SNAP/Food stamps.

Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) is a crucial lifeline for many Maryland residents, providing access to essential food and cash benefits.

However, EBT fraud has become a growing concern, leaving countless individuals struggling to recover their stolen benefits.

In response to this issue, Maryland has taken steps to reimburse those who have fallen victim to EBT fraud.

This post will guide you through the process of obtaining Maryland EBT reimbursement.

We will detail how you can recover your stolen benefits promptly and effectively.

Table of Contents:

• Growing Problem of EBT Fraud in Maryland
• Growing Problem of EBT Fraud in Maryland
• Maryland to Reimburse Stolen EBT Benefits
• Timeline for EBT Fraud Reimbursement in Maryland
• What to Do to Protect Your EBT Card from Fraud

How to get Maryland EBT Reimbursement

EBT fraud has become a pervasive issue in Maryland, affecting thousands of residents.

Criminals use various methods, such as skimming, to steal card and PIN numbers, leaving vulnerable individuals without the assistance they rely on for their daily needs.

The impact of EBT fraud is particularly severe for families with children, the elderly, and those with limited resources.

Typically, SNAP recipients find out their cards have been drained when they check their Maryland EBT balance.

Maryland to Reimburse Stolen EBT Benefits

The state of Maryland has recognized the urgency of addressing EBT fraud and has taken significant steps to assist affected individuals.

Governor Wes Moore’s administration, in cooperation with the Maryland General Assembly, has implemented a plan to reimburse EBT benefits stolen through fraud.

According to the Governor’s office, more than 2,300 Maryland families were robbed of their EBT benefits due to fraud between October 2022 and February 2023.

New Law Takes Effect

The General Assembly approved $1.8 million in state general funds for the upcoming state fiscal year for reimbursing claims that were previously denied and are now eligible.

Approximately 1,095 additional households will become eligible to recover more than $826,000 in previously reported stolen cash and food assistance benefit payments.

Previously, the department could only reimburse EBT benefits stolen by fraud dating back to Oct. 1, 2022.

Congress also passed a law

In late 2022, Congress enacted legislation aimed at providing relief to SNAP participants who have fallen victim to card skimming, cloning, and related fraudulent tactics.

This law introduces provisions for replacing benefits lost due to these fraudulent activities, within specific conditions.

Each state must submit a plan to be approved by the USDA to begin EBT reimbursements.

Maryland submitted a plan on February 10, 2023.

The USDA approved Maryland’s EBT Reimbursement plan on February 24, 2023.

How to get Maryland EBT Reimbursement

Recovering your stolen EBT benefits in Maryland is a straightforward process as outlined below:

1. Access the Claim Form: To initiate your reimbursement claim, visit myMDTHINK.maryland.gov or your nearest local Department of Social Services.
2. Complete the Form: Fill out the EBT Stolen Benefits Attestation Claim Form provided on the website.
3. Signature and Submission: Type your name on the signature line of the form and click the submit button to send your claim.

Get the Maryland SNAP EBT Reimbursement Form

As mentioned above, you have to complete the Maryland EBT Reimbursement form in order for your claim to be processed.

For the EBT Fraud Attestation Claim Form, Click here.

Timeline for EBT Fraud Reimbursement in Maryland

• If your benefits were stolen between January 1, 2021, and September 20, 2022, there is no deadline to file a claim.
• For benefits stolen between October 1, 2022, and February 28, 2023, you must file your claim by May 31, 2023.
• If your benefits were stolen on or after March 1, 2023, you have 45 days from the date you discovered the theft to submit your claim.

What to Do to Protect Your EBT Card from Fraud

Prevention is always the best approach. Here are some steps you can take to protect your EBT card from fraud:

• Keep your card and PIN secure. Do not share your PIN with anyone.
• Regularly check your EBT account balance and transaction history for any unauthorized activity.
• Be cautious when using your EBT card at ATMs and point-of-sale terminals.
• Report any suspicious activity or unauthorized transactions immediately to your local Department of Social Services.