EBT cardholders are reminded to protect their card and PIN information

Due to a recent increase in fraudulent text messages, EBT cardholders are reminded to protect their card and PIN information. Use the new freeze/unfreeze card feature to help you secure your EBT card and protect your benefits from scam-related theft. If your benefits have been stolen immediately contact EBT Customer Service Helpline to report your card stolen and request a replacement EBT card at 1-888-328-6399. To learn more, visit OTDA’s website.

Nassau Suffolk Law Services’ Public Benefits Unit provides legal assistance to persons who experience problems with public benefits programs that are administered by the local Departments of Social Services, including:

• Welfare (TANF and Safety Net)
• Medicaid
• Food Stamps (SNAP)
• Child Care Assistance
• HEAP
• Emergency shelter for the homeless
• Unemployment insurance appeals and overpayments
• Other emergency assistance programs

We also assist low-income households in establishing Supplemental Needs Trusts to eliminate the Medicaid spend-down and assist homeless families to obtain rent supplements from DSS to enable families to leave the shelters or retain permanent housing. Suffolk County residents seeking legal representation can contact (631) 232-2400 (Islandia) or (631) 369-1112. Nassau County residents seeking legal representation can contact (516) 292-8100.