Ohio is facing a growing challenge that’s quietly affecting thousands of working families: the theft of SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits. Criminals are using techniques like skimming and cloning EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) cards to steal food assistance meant for people in need. The result? Families across the state, especially in cities like Cleveland, are left without the help they rely on to put food on the table.
Since federal replacement of stolen SNAP benefits ended in December 204, the responsibility to address this crisis falls on families, food banks, and state lawmakers. Fortunately, new legislation is on the table to strengthen protections for SNAP recipients and prevent future theft.
A problem with a big price tag
Across the country, SNAP fraud is costing up to $400 million a year, and Ohio is not immune. Thousands of Ohioans have had their benefits stolen, often without any warning and with little to no way to recover their funds.
In December 2024 alone, a record number of Cleveland residents lost their SNAP benefits just before Christmas, right as temporary federal reimbursement programs were ending. For many, this meant facing the holidays without enough food for their families.
The theft usually happens when criminals install skimming devices on card readers at grocery stores. These devices collect card numbers and PINs, which are used to make fake cards and steal benefits as soon as they’re deposited. Most people don’t know they have been targeted until it is too late.
Real people, real consequences
SNAP is designed to help working families, older adults, and individuals with limited incomes afford healthy and nutritious food. When those resources are stolen, the impact is immediate as families go hungry, food pantries get overwhelmed, and trust in public programs takes a hit.
Ohio’s food banks have seen a sharp increase in demand, with many clients saying they turned to emergency food after their SNAP funds were stolen.
Ohio lawmakers respond with action
Representatives Kellie Deeter (R-Norwalk), Tristan Rader (D-Lakewood), and Desiree Tims (D-Dayton) have introduced bills in a bipartisan effort to protect SNAP benefits.
The Enhanced Cybersecurity for SNAP Act of 2025 (House Bill 163), co-sponsored by Rader and Deeter, would:
- Replace current EBT cards with chip-enabled versions that are harder to hack.
- Launch a pilot program in high-risk areas to test and expand the new cards.
- Educate SNAP recipients on how to spot and report fraud.
- Work with retailers to upgrade card readers and improve transaction security.
The No Hungry Families Act (House Bill 174), co-sponsored by Rader and Tims, would:
- Create a state-run reimbursement program for SNAP recipients whose benefits were stolen.
- Allocate state funds to ensure affected families can recover their lost benefits.
- Specifically address common fraud methods like card skimming and cloning.
In addition, Ohio lawmakers submitted a bipartisan request to Congress in early 2025, asking for national support to help states fight EBT fraud and modernize benefit systems.
How United Way of Greater Cleveland can help
United Way of Greater Cleveland, through United Way 211, is here to provide the right help at the right time, including directing callers to food pantries and community meal programs, helping to access SNAP benefits, and more. We understand that navigating the safety net can be confusing, which is why we are here with the support and guidance that Greater Clevelanders need. Simply call 2-1-1 or chat with us online at 211oh.org today.
At United Way of Greater Cleveland, we advocate for policies that remove barriers to economic opportunity and help Greater Clevelanders not just get by, but get ahead. Learn more about our advocacy work on our Public Policy and Advocacy page.
Ohio families deserve a SNAP system that’s safe, reliable, and secure. With stronger protections, better technology, and community support, we can make that a reality.
