Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What benefit months are available for replacing?
Retroactive claims are being accepted for benefits stolen between October 1, 2023 through July 31, 2023, and new claims will be accepted through September 30, 2024.
What if I already reported my benefits stolen for the retroactive timeframe?
Prior reports of stolen EBT benefits will be reviewed. The Investigation and Recovery (I&R) unit will attempt to contact customers by phone or mail. A letter and claim form will be mailed to the last known address of the customer that reported stolen benefits. You can update your address here.
How long do I have to submit a claim for retroactive benefits?
Retroactive claims must be submitted by September 28, 2023.
How can I report my benefits have been stolen?
Customers may report benefit theft in person at any welfare office, by phone (702)486-1875 (Southern Nevada) or (775)448-5211 (Northern Nevada), mail, email irreferral@dwss.nv.gov or at Report Welfare Fraud in Nevada.
Will I get all of my benefits back?
Customers' replacement benefits cannot exceed the amount of two (2) months of their monthly allotment, or the amount of the actual loss, whichever is less.
What happens after I submit my claim form?
All claims will be reviewed for validation by the I&R unit.
What information do I need to provide on the claim form?
Claim forms should include:
- Customers identifying information
- Confirmation of being in possession of the EBT card reported as being used fraudulently
- Total amount of benefits stolen
- Form must be signed in order to be considered valid, claims without signatures will be denied
- Copy of police report (if one was filed)
How will I be notified?
A Notice of Decision (NOD) will be mailed to all customers that submit a claim.
What are some reasons my claim could be denied?
Claims can be denied for the following reasons:
- The claim form is incomplete.
- The completed form was not submitted timely.
- The reported theft occurred prior to October 1, 2022.
- The investigation and Recovery Unit could not validate that the benefits were stolen as a result of card skimming, card cloning, or other similar fraudulent methods.
- The household has already exceeded the allowable two (2) issuances of replacement benefits.
What if I disagree with the decision?
A fair hearing can be requested regarding the decision, the amount of the reimbursement, or any part of the decision. Hearings request must be submitted verbally or in writing within ninety (90) days.
How long will it take to get my benefits back?
Approved claims will have the benefits replaced within approximately thirty (30) calendar days from the receipt of the Stolen EBT Benefits Claim form.
What should I do if I am a victim of card skimming or cloning?
Obtain a new EBT card immediately by visiting any welfare office or calling the phone number on the back of your EBT card.
Change your PIN.
Report your benefits stolen by calling (702) 486-1875 (Southern Nevada) or (775)448-5211 (Northern Nevada), a local welfare office, or here.