Magnetic stripe-only Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards previously issued to residents will be deactivated on Sunday, April 19, 2026. Residents must use a chip/tap-enabled EBT card to continue accessing benefits. EBT chip/tap-enabled cards feature security upgrades that protect users from fraud.
Residents who already have chip/tap-enabled EBT cards do not need to take further action. Women, Infants and Children Program (WIC) and SUN Bucks magnetic-stripe EBT cards will not be affected.
Recipients use EBT cards to buy food and access cash benefits.
To request a replacement card, EBT cardholders can call the EBT Helpline at 877-328-9677, visit BenefitsCal.com or ebtedge.com, or contact their local Social Services Agency office in person or by phone at 800-281-9799.