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If you think you had your SNAP benefits stolen due to fraud, such as card skimming, cloning or other methods, you may be eligible to have your benefits replaced.
Who is eligible to have stolen benefits replaced?
Replacement benefits are for SNAP recipients with benefits stolen, due to fraud, from their Lone Star Card between Oct. 1, 2022, and Sept. 30, 2024.
How much money can be replaced?
The total replacement amount cannot be more than the amount of the stolen benefits or the amount equal to two months of your SNAP benefit allotments, whichever is less.
If eligible, when will I get my benefits replaced?
Most SNAP recipients will get their benefits replaced on their new Lone Star Card within 10 days of completing Form H1854, Affidavit for Unauthorized Use of Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) Benefits.
How often can I request replacement benefits due to fraud?
You can request replacements twice per federal fiscal year. (The federal fiscal year is Oct. 1 to Sept. 30.)
When can I request replacement benefits?
If you think your SNAP benefits were stolen due to fraud, you have 30 days from that date to request a benefit replacement.
If you think your SNAP benefits were stolen between Oct. 1, 2022, and May 30, 2023 you have until Aug. 29, 2023 to request a benefit replacement.
How do I request replacement benefits due to fraud?
If you have been a victim of fraud, get a new Lone Star Card and change your PIN, and request a reimbursement. Keep all records of any fraudulent activity.
To request a new card and PIN:
- Login to the Your Texas Benefits mobile app and request a new card and change your PIN, or
- Call the Lone Star Help Desk (800-777-7328), or
- Go to a local HHSC benefits office.
To request a reimbursement:
- Go to your local HHSC benefits office to complete Form H1854, Affidavit for Unauthorized Use of Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) benefits.
- Within two weeks, HHSC will review the information and let you know by mail if you’re eligible for replacement benefits.
What if I cannot go to a HHSC benefits office in person?
If you cannot come in person to a local HHSC benefits office because of age, disability, distance, or inability to appoint an authorized representative, call your local HHSC benefits office and request Form H1854 by mail.
You must return the completed and signed form to HHSC by the date on the form or 30 days from when you discovered the benefits were stolen.
What if I think I was wrongly denied replacement benefits?
If you think you were wrongly denied replacement benefits, you can find more information on appeals and fair hearings on the form you are mailed. You can also call the Lone Star Help Desk at 800-777-7328.
How do I prevent this from happening again?
Lone Star Card Fraud Awareness and Prevention has resources on how to protect yourself against fraud.