‘I’ve been scammed’: This Houston mom’s $700 SNAP benefit was wiped — leaving $6 for the month — and the state says the money is gone for good. Here's what to know about 'SNAP skimming'

Why can’t the funds be replaced?

Unfortunately, the SNAP funds cannot be replaced — even though they were taken without her permission through no fault of her own.

Merchant is among the many victims of “SNAP skimming,” a growing type of electronic theft in which criminals install hidden devices on card readers to steal card numbers and PINs. Once the information is cloned, they can wipe out an account in minutes.

Until recently, stolen SNAP funds could be reimbursed under a federal protection program — but that law expired on Dec. 20, 2024, and Congress has not renewed it. That means any benefits stolen after that date — including Merchant’s — are not eligible for replacement unless the state sets up its own replacement program. Texas has not.

“It sounds like you’re not getting that money back,” KPRC 2 reporter Gage Goulding told her.

“Nope. And that’s wrong, and that’s why it’s so much fraud — because no one’s doing nothing about it,” Merchant replied.

Merchant has since canceled her old card and ordered a new one, as advised by Texas Health and Human Services. But that doesn’t solve the larger issue: how to feed her children with almost no funds for the month.

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How to protect your SNAP benefits — and what to do if you're scammed

SNAP provides monthly food assistance to low-income households. In Texas, funds are loaded onto a Lone Star Card, which works like a debit card at grocery stores. Households can receive anywhere from roughly $300 to nearly $2,000 per month, depending on income and family size, according to Texas Health and Human Services.

However, as electronic theft rises, protecting those benefits has become a major concern.

Here are some ways SNAP recommends you protect your account — and what to do if you're targeted.

Never share your PIN

State officials will never ask for your PIN, and neither should store clerks, friends or anyone outside your household. Only share your PIN with trusted adults who live in your household.

Be wary at checkout

Check card readers for loose parts or hidden devices often used for phishing — tug slightly to see if anything moves. If you see wires or if the card reader moves or comes apart, don't use your card. When entering your PIN, use your hand or body to shield others from seeing it.

Change your PIN every month

Set a reminder to change your PIN each month. The USDA recommends changing it the day before your benefits are expected to be deposited. That way, if phishers have your current PIN, they won't be able to access the funds.

Report fraud immediately

If your card is compromised, contact your local SNAP office right away. Cancel the card and request a new one. States can use their own funds to replace stolen benefits, so check in your area before assuming they won't be replaced. Even if benefits can’t be reimbursed, reporting the incident helps officials track skimming trends and locations.

How to access food if your benefits are stolen

Start by contacting your local food bank, which may offer emergency groceries or prepared meals. Community organizations, churches and mutual aid groups can also provide short-term support.

If you’re on social media, look for “Buy Nothing,” “Food Not Bombs” or other neighborhood support groups where members often share food or supplies. These steps won’t replace the stolen funds, but they can help you get through a tough time while you explore your options.