Imagine filling your grocery cart, only to have your EBT card declined at the register because of a security update you didn’t know existed. Unfortunately, this is becoming a reality for EBT users across the country as more states add new default transaction blocks.
In this post, we’ll break down why this is happening, which states are implementing these new rules and what you can do to unblock your card if necessary.
Why States are Blocking Some EBT Transactions
It all comes down to SNAP fraud. For the last 10 years or so, thieves have managed to steal billions of dollars in SNAP benefits. In 2025 alone, Propel reports that thieves managed to steal $607 million in SNAP.
Most of this theft happens out-of-state, through a process known as skimming. Skimming happens when scammers place hidden, illegal overlay devices onto the card readers at store checkout lanes. When you swipe your card, the device steals your EBT card number and PIN from the magnetic strip the card uses.
Once they have that information, they can clone your card and create an exact replica that they can use. However, the criminals rarely use those cloned cards in your neighborhood. Instead, they quickly drain the funds by placing large online orders or by using the cloned cards in different states, often in the middle of the night.
Many SNAP users have unexpectedly had their EBT card declined because their transactions have been drained by thieves. Now states, are trying to prevent that from happening by instituting new blocks on out-of-state or online transactions. But it’s a double-edged sword because it means some shoppers are experiencing declined transactions becuase of the new default blocks.
What States are Blocking EBT Transactions
While most states give you the option to block your card voluntarily either on their website or through their app, some states have started changing the rules so that those transactions are blocked for everyone.
- Alabama has automatically disabled out-of-state and online transactions as of January 22, 2026.
- South Carolina has blocked out-of-state and online transactions since April 28, 2026.
- Ohio has blocked blocking out-of-state and online transactions for SNAP and SUNBucks (Summer EBT) since May 13, 2026.
- Louisiana is blocking most out-of-state transactions and most online transactions by default as of May 26, 2026. Some specific zip codes in neighboring states are still allowed, as are some approved online retailers. You have to request a short-term exemption if you want to travel and use your card outside of those areas.
- Wisconsin has blocked most out-of-state and online transactions since March 1, 2026. Transactions in bordering states are still allowed. The merchant should see a “62 – Restricted Card” error if the transaction is blocked due to the new settings.
Even if your state is not blocking transactions by default, they may allow you to choose to block your card in the settings. For example, even the third-party Propel app will allow you to lock or freeze your card in most states.
Follow Your State’s Announcements
If your state isn’t on this list yet, keep a close eye on your mail and email notifications. Because EBT skimming remains a massive nationwide issue, more state agencies are adopting this default-block strategy every month.
How to Unlock Your Card
If you need to make an online purchase (like ordering groceries through Walmart or Amazon) or you live near a state border and shop across state lines, you can easily bypass the block.
Most states use the ConnectEBT or LifeInCheck management systems. You can manage your card status 24/7 using three methods:
- Use the mobile app. Most states have an official EBT app like ConnectEBT. Look in your account settings for titles like Card Security, Card Status, or Lock/Unlock Card so that you can toggle the out-of-state or online transactions settings.
- Use the online portal. You can go to the official website listed on the back of your card (such as ConnectEBT.com). Look for the card settings so you can change your high-risk transaction status.
- Call customer service. You can call the toll-free number on the back of your EBT card and follow the automated prompts to temporarily authorize out-of-state or online shopping.
Quick Tips to Protect Your Benefits
Regardless of your state’s default settings, there are some simple ways that you can protect your benefits even further. These tips can help you protect your grocery budget.
- Change your PIN monthly. If you change your pin before your deposits arrive each month, you’ll prevent any scammers from being able to steal them using old data.
- Avoid weak PINs. Don’t use sequential numbers or repeating numbers.
- Check the payment terminal. Wiggle the card reader a little bit, and look for any bulky, loose or misfitting pieces. If you see anything suspicious, pay at a different terminal or at the customer service desk.
Relief Recap
It is stressful when you are shopping and suddenly find out your EBT card declined. However, these new measures are intended to help shield your benefits from thieves. The instructions in this post can help you quickly and easily unlock your card whenever you need to do it. Happy shopping!
