Media Contact:
May 14, 2026
Lilly Price, Press Secretary
lillian.price@maryland.gov
Phone: 443-965-1265
Maryland’s Transition to More Secure, Easier to Use EBT Cards Starts This Weekend
Scheduled system downtime means customers should plan ahead on Sunday, May 17.
Baltimore, MD — The Maryland Department of Human Services (DHS) is excited to announce the rollout of new, more secure Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards. When Maryland begins issuing new Europay, Mastercard, and VISA chip and tap (EMV chip-enabled) cards beginning in July, it will be among the first states in the nation to align benefit cards with the security standards of modern debit and credit cards. Amid a national rise in “skimming” and other sophisticated theft tactics, EMV chip-enabled cards provide an additional security layer, preventing unauthorized parties from compromising SNAP customer data.
As part of this effort, we will make a system update on the morning of Sunday, May 17, 2026. During this time, EBT customers with the current “Maryland Independence” card will not be able to use their EBT card to buy food or withdraw cash at stores or ATMs beginning Sunday, May 17, 2026, from 12 a.m. (midnight) to 12 p.m. (noon).
What EBT customers 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, May 17.
- Customers do NOT have to use all benefits before the system update on Sunday. Benefits will transfer and the amount available will not change on existing cards.
- On May 18, 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.
Additional information on planned service changes for customers is available here. The cardholder helpline is 1-800-997-2222.
“Our mission is to ensure that the vital assistance our families rely on is delivered with integrity,” said Acting Secretary Stacy L. Rodgers. “By joining the small group of states leading this national modernization effort, Maryland is not just upgrading a card — we are ensuring the increased security and accessibility most consumers expect from a modern debit or credit card. We are committed to a future where benefit access is as seamless as it is secure.”
The department has taken numerous steps to make sure EBT cardholders know about the upcoming service changes, including sending emails and text messages directly to customers. The department has also shared information with community-based organizations and federal and state lawmakers, asking for their help in spreading the word.
About the Maryland Department of Human Services:
The Maryland Department of Human Services (DHS) is the state’s primary social services provider, serving more than one million Marylanders annually. Through its programs — including food assistance, cash support, child welfare, and energy assistance — DHS works to strengthen Maryland’s families and communities.
###
