New and Improved EBT Cards are Coming!

To make benefits more secure and easier to access, Maryland has transitioned to a new Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card vendor, Fidelity Information Services (FIS).

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.

When your new EBT card arrives, the cards will look like this:

The new Maryland EBT card featuring an embedded chip and a background photo of the state capitol building in Annapolis.

Before sending these cards to everyone this summer, we are testing them with a small group of pilot customers to make sure everything works correctly.

If You Were Selected for the Pilot

  • You have already received an email from DHS with next steps.
  • You will receive a new EBT card with a chip and “tap to pay” in the mail with instructions on how to activate it.
  • Your benefits and PIN will stay the same.
  • After you activate your new card, your current card will stop working.

If You Were Not Selected

  • You will receive your new EBT card later this summer.
  • We will send more information before your new card arrives.
  • To help prepare for getting your new card, please register for a new account on the ebtEdge Cardholder Portal or by downloading the ebtEdge app for iOS or Android.

Update Your Address to Receive Your Card

If we do not have your correct address, you will not receive your new EBT card. There are a few ways to update your contact information, including your address:

  • Go to benefits.maryland.gov and sign in or create an account using the buttons in the top right corner.
    • Once signed in, select My Benefits Dashboard.
    • Choose the Report Changes tab.
    • Select Report a Change to enter and submit your new information.
  • Call the DHS Call Center at 1-800-332-6347 to speak with someone who can help you update your address.
  • Visit your local Department of Social Services office. You can find your local office HERE.

Please have proof of your current address ready. Examples of documents include a valid government-issued ID, lease agreement, rent receipt, mortgage statement or recent utility bill with your name and address.

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.

New Features & Frequently Asked Questions

Your SNAP and cash benefits are sent to you on Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards. Fidelity Information Services (FIS) is MD DHS’s partner that helps manage your benefits and EBT cards.

View the current EBT Brochure to learn more about using your card