New York Upgrades SNAP Benefits with Chip EBT Cards

By Blake Jackson

New York is taking a major step to strengthen the security of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits by introducing chip-enabled Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards beginning in early 2027.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced that the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) has finalized a contract with Fidelity Information Services, LLC (FIS) to provide the upgraded cards, which are expected to significantly reduce benefit theft caused by illegal card-skimming devices.

“We are committed to protecting New Yorkers from benefit theft and modernizing our EBT system is the most effective tool we have to prevent heartless criminals from preying on some of our most vulnerable residents,” Governor Hochul said.

“As the federal administration continues to undermine efforts to address food insecurity and hunger, New York remains focused on uplifting families and ensuring they have the help they need to put food on the table.”

The chip-based cards use the same secure technology found in most debit and credit cards. While the national EBT system only recently became capable of supporting chip technology, New York is among a small group of states leading the transition.

Distribution of approximately two million new cards is expected to begin during the first quarter of 2027, with funding included in the FY 2027 State Budget.

OTDA has already begun working with retailers and financial institutions to ensure payment systems are updated before the rollout. Current EBT cardholders will receive advance notice before their replacement cards are issued.

The upgrade comes after a rise in benefit theft through skimming devices that capture card data and PINs. Since federal funding for replacing stolen SNAP benefits ended in late 2024, preventing fraud has become increasingly important.

The new cards will also serve Public Assistance recipients, providing stronger protection against electronic theft.

Officials continue encouraging recipients to use security features available through the ebtEDGE app, including freezing and unfreezing cards and blocking online or out-of-state purchases.

OTDA also reminds cardholders never to share EBT information through emails, text messages, or phone calls, as legitimate agencies will never request those details.

For more information, visit https://otda.ny.gov/ebtscam.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-shotbydave