SNAP Payment Security and Fraud Prevention Act of 2026

This bill strengthens SNAP benefit security by requiring all EBT cards to be chip-enabled (replacing magnetic stripes by 2030) and mandating retailers to use chip payment terminals for SNAP transactions. It establishes civil fines of double the stolen benefit value for unauthorized access, and requires states to provide free card replacements within 3 business days for fraud, damage, or loss - eliminating fees for these cases. The bill also expands USDA's fraud investigation authority and sets new cybersecurity standards for digital account management, including mobile-friendly interfaces and transaction alerts. These changes directly affect SNAP recipients, state agencies administering benefits, and participating retailers.