In an effort to prevent fraud and theft, as well as protect tax dollars, Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey announced the state is switching to chip and tap-enabled Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards.

 

These cards, which are used for a variety of benefits including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), will be mailed to recipients throughout the month of August, according to Healey’s office.

 

The statewide launch follows a successful pilot in which 35,000 residents of the Worcester area received the new EBT cards and made tens of thousands of transactions.

 

The mayor’s office said Massachusetts is now the fourth state to implement the upgraded security features.

 

“Families across Massachusetts rely on DTA programs to afford groceries and other essential goods,” Healey said in a press release. “We’re focused on preventing fraud and theft so that these funds are going to the people who need and deserve them.”

 

“Having a chip and tap-to-pay option on our EBT cards means a safer way to access benefits people use to keep their families fed and is one more tool in our arsenal that supports our ongoing commitment to safeguarding public funds,” DTA Commissioner Michael Cole added.

 

The preparation for the change began earlier this year as the state notified and worked with retailers to ensure they’ll be able to accept the new EBT cards. 

 

See more at wpri.com.