Human Services Launches New Lock Feature on EBT Cards to Protect Against Benefit Theft
On April 4, 2025, Human Services announced a new security feature that allows individuals who receive cash and food assistance benefits to lock their Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards to protect against the national problem of skimming. Residents who receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Work First New Jersey (WFNJ) benefits can use the new EBT Lock/Unlock tool on the NJFamiliesFirst.com website or the ConnectEBT app to lock their EBT cards when they are not in use. Choosing the “Lock My Card Everywhere” option blocks all purchases while your card is locked. Residents will still receive benefits or refunds – even if their card is locked – but no online or in-store purchases can be made. Click here to view the full press release in English. Click here to view the full press release in Spanish.
- Click here to view and/or download instructions on how to lock your Families First EBT Card and protect your family from theft – English.
- Click here to view and/or download instructions on how to lock your Families First EBT Card and protect your family from theft – Spanish.