By Jeff Devine, Editor-in-Chief, Dale County Chronicle
The Alabama Department of Human Resources is rolling out multiple new security measures aimed at protecting Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits from fraud, including automatic transaction blocks and newly issued chip-enabled EBT cards.
Beginning Thursday, Jan. 22, 2026, ALL Alabama EBT cards will automatically block out-of-state and online transactions unless cardholders manually unlock those features. This will include transactions made online for pickup at a local store. The change places cards into a default “Block High-Risk Transaction” status, a move DHR officials say is intended to curb electronic theft of benefits.
While the block is in place, SNAP benefits may only be used for in-state, in-person purchases. Cardholders who need to make purchases outside Alabama or online must unlock their card through the ConnectEBT mobile app, the ConnectEBT website, or by contacting EBT Customer Service.
At the same time, DHR has begun issuing new chip-enabled EBT cards, which offer an additional layer of protection. The cards are currently being tested through a pilot program in Autauga, Bullock, Chambers, Chilton, Coosa, Lee, Lowndes, Macon, Russell, Shelby, and Tallapoosa counties, with the pilot expected to last 30 to 45 days. Following a successful trial, chip-enabled cards will be mailed to EBT cardholders statewide.
Both SNAP and TANF benefits will automatically transfer to the new cards, and benefit amounts will remain unchanged. The new cards feature enhanced security elements, including relocated personal information on the back of the card, a card expiration date, and a three-digit security code. Officials emphasized the expiration date applies only to the card itself and does not affect benefit eligibility.
“This change has been in the works for a long time, and to see it finally come to fruition is incredibly rewarding knowing our EBT clients’ benefits will be better protected,” said DHR Commissioner Nancy Buckner. She also credited industry partners for helping retailers prepare for the transition to chipped cards.
Cardholders will be required to activate their new EBT card within 180 days of receiving it. Activation will require entering the card number, date of birth, ZIP code, expiration date, and security code. Once activated, cardholders are advised to immediately destroy their old card.
DHR encourages recipients to insert the chip into the point-of-sale device when making purchases. If the chip does not work, the card may still be swiped as a fallback, provided the retailer’s system allows it. Retailers who have not yet upgraded their point-of-sale systems are encouraged to do so to ensure compatibility with the new cards.
Despite the added security features, DHR continues to recommend that EBT cardholders lock their cards when not in use through the ConnectEBT app as an added precaution.
In-state purchases will continue to be processed normally, and assistance with the new chip-enabled cards or transaction settings is available through EBT Customer Service at 1-800-997-8888 or at local county DHR offices.
DHR officials encourage all EBT recipients to familiarize themselves with the changes as Alabama continues efforts to safeguard public assistance benefits.
