New and Improved EBT Cards are Coming!
To make benefits more secure and easier to access, Maryland is transitioning to a new Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card vendor, Fidelity Information Services (FIS). As part of this transition, online access will move from the ConnectEBT site to a new platform called ebtEdge.
Later this summer, we will be sending you a new, more secure EBT card. These cards use Europay, Mastercard, Visa (EMV) chip and tap technology, just like other credit or debit cards that you may have. These new cards will make it harder for thieves to take your information and will help keep your benefits safe — so you can keep using them.
While we make improvements, some changes are necessary to how your existing EBT card works.
Important Changes and Dates:
- You will not be able to change your PIN or lock your card from:
- Start: 11:00 PM on Friday, May 15, 2026
- End: 12:00 PM on Sunday, May 17, 2026
- May 16, 2026 is the last day to use the ConnectEBT site or app to manage your benefits.
- You will not be able to use your card to buy food or withdraw cash at stores or ATMs from:
- Start: 12:00 AM on Sunday, May 17, 2026 (midnight)
- End: 12:00 PM on Sunday, May 17, 2026 (noon)
- Beginning Monday, May 18, manage your benefits by registering for a new account on the ebtEdge Cardholder Portal or by downloading the ebtEdge app.
iOS / Android - Beginning in July, Maryland will begin mailing new EBT cards to our cardholders. When you receive your new card this summer, follow the instructions in the envelope to activate it.
What You Need to Do:
- Plan purchases ahead: Please buy groceries and use the ATM before this scheduled downtime begins on Sunday, May 17 at midnight through noon on Sunday.
- On May 18th, set up your new ebtEdge account: Register for a new account on the ebtEdge website or by downloading the ebtEdge app (iOS / Android). If you’re having trouble, start with these step-by-step instructions.
- Beware of scams: Do not share your card information or PIN with anyone. State staff will never call or text you to ask for your EBT card number or PIN. The official state EBT website will never ask for your card number or PIN on its first page. Watch out for fake websites that look like the official EBT site. If you get suspicious calls, texts, or links asking for your EBT details, do not reply or enter any personal information.
- That’s it: You do not need to do anything with your current EBT card. Your PIN will stay the same, and you will be able to use your card again once the updates are complete.