Maryland taxpayers are seeing real savings after the state upgraded its Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) system to chip‑and‑tap cards. From July through September 2026, reimbursements for stolen benefits fell from about $3.14 million to $898,000 – a 71 percent drop that translates into roughly $2.2 million kept in the state’s coffers.
Governor’s remarks
Governor Wes Moore praised the move, saying, “As prices rise across the nation, our administration is providing accessible and secure relief to Maryland families. These EBT cards ensure that Marylanders can put food on the table without fear of stolen benefits, saving the state millions of dollars in the process. My administration will continue working to reduce fraud and delivering real results for communities that need it the most.”
How the technology works
Maryland became the fourth state to adopt chip‑enabled EBT cards, which make it far harder for thieves to skim card data and use it for fraudulent purchases. The new cards are paired with upgraded fraud‑monitoring software, stricter claim‑validation procedures, and a new EBT processor, all of which tighten security across the benefits system.
Program‑by‑program impact
All major assistance programs are reporting lower fraud losses. In the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), reimbursements for stolen benefits dropped 73 percent, from $2.54 million to $678,000. The SUN Bucks program saw a 79 percent decline, falling from $49,000 to $10,500. Cash Assistance reimbursements fell 62 percent, from $555,000 to $208,000.
Fewer claims, fewer thieves
The total number of fraud claims submitted by customers also fell sharply, decreasing 65 percent – from 8,817 claims in the same three‑month period of 2025 to 3,062 in 2026. State officials interpret the drop as evidence that fewer Marylanders are experiencing stolen benefits.
Official statements
Stacy L. Rodgers, acting secretary for the Maryland Department of Human Services, said, “Our highest priority is ensuring that vital food and cash assistance reach the Maryland families who need them—not the criminals attempting to steal them. Through our transition to chip‑and‑tap EBT technology, we are protecting state taxpayer dollars, reducing administrative burdens on our staff, and keeping benefits secure for our customers.”
What residents need to do
Cardholders are urged to activate their new chip‑and‑tap cards immediately if they have not already done so. The old magnetic‑stripe cards will be deactivated soon. Customers who need assistance can call 1‑800‑997‑2222 or visit their local department of social services.
Looking ahead
Maryland’s success adds momentum to a growing national trend of states adopting more secure benefit‑card technology. By safeguarding taxpayer dollars and ensuring that assistance reaches the intended recipients, the state is delivering tangible results for families while reinforcing fiscal responsibility.
Original reporting: Baltimore Fishbowl — read the source article.
