DTA EBT Card Conversion Project
The Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) is upgrading to Chip/Tap Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards — a safer way to pay that helps protect your benefits from theft. Your new card will come automatically in the mail — no need to call or visit DTA. Activate it right away by making a purchase or calling 1-800-997-2555 to set a new PIN. The envelope will have an out-of-state return address — don’t throw it away!
Reason for Change
- Criminal activity targeting EBT magnetic stripe cards has increased, resulting in theft of benefits through skimming devices. DTA is replacing existing cards with more secure chip-enabled EBT cards.
Rollout Timeline
- Approximately 570,000 new chip/tap EBT cards will be mailed statewide throughout the summer (2026).
Important Client Information
- Clients are encouraged to update their mailing addresses using DTA Connect before cards are mailed. Some recipients have mistaken DTA outreach texts as fraudulent messages.
- New cards must be activated within 60 days of receipt. Once activated, the previous card will automatically deactivate. If the new card is never activated within 60 days, the old card will automatically deactivate.
- Card mailings will originate from an out-of-state address.
- DTA will actively monitor card activation and conduct outreach to clients who have not activated their replacement cards
Card Replacement Process
- Mass replacement mailings are being used only for this chip card implementation project.
- Clients requesting replacements through TAOs will continue to receive service through TAOs.
- Replacement requests through DTA Connect or the customer service line will continue but are transitioning to the EBT vendor.
For More Information:
- Senior Assistance Office (SAO): 833-712-8027.