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New York to Begin Issuing Chip-Enabled EBT Cards in 2027
Governor Kathy Hochul announced the state will distribute about 2 million new cards starting in the first quarter of 2027. The cards replace magnetic-stripe technology with embedded microchips to reduce theft of SNAP and other benefits.
Jul 14, 11:16 AM·1m read1 source
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New York will begin issuing chip-enabled Electronic Benefit Transfer cards to recipients of SNAP and certain public assistance benefits in the first quarter of 2027, Governor Kathy Hochul announced. The state plans to distribute roughly 2 million cards that use embedded microchip technology instead of the magnetic-stripe cards now in use.
Fidelity Information Services has been contracted to supply the new cards.
Current holders will receive replacements automatically and will be notified in advance, without needing to apply. New York’s Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance will coordinate with retailers and financial institutions to ensure payment systems accept the chip cards before distribution begins.
The change follows the federal government’s decision to stop funding replacement of stolen SNAP benefits at the end of 2024.
Only a handful of other states have already adopted chip-enabled EBT cards, while several more are in the process of transitioning. Until the new cards arrive, state officials encourage recipients to use the ebtEDGE mobile app or website to monitor balances and transaction history, change PINs frequently, and report unauthorized activity immediately to customer service or local social services offices.
