More Action to Secure SNAP Benefits for New Yorkers Amid Rising Fraud

By Y.M. Lowy

Since federal reimbursements for stolen SNAP funds ended in December, thousands of New Yorkers have been left struggling to buy food.

The problem is huge. Between August 2023 and December 2024, 85,000 claims were filed in New York for stolen benefits, totaling $65 million. Before the reimbursement program ended, nearly $40 million was replaced, but many families got nothing. Brooklyn has been hit especially hard, with over 51,000 residents affected.

To try to fix this, Congressman Dan Goldman plans to introduce a bill that would require better cybersecurity and fraud protection for EBT cards. State lawmakers are also working to set aside $90 million to help victims of SNAP fraud.