New Jersey rolls out chip-enabled EBT cards to combat fraud

New Jersey is introducing encrypted chip-enabled Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards to combat rising fraud and card skimming. The initiative aims to protect food assistance benefits, such as SNAP, which have been targeted by criminals. In 2022, the state reported that recipients lost $355,000 to skimmers.

New Jersey Human Services Commissioner Stephen Cha noted that under current federal law, stolen benefits cannot be replaced, making prevention critical. The rollout begins with a four-week pilot program in Cumberland, Essex, and Mercer counties before expanding statewide. Residents enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or Work First New Jersey can request replacement cards.