For Hometown News
TREASURE COAST - The Department of Children and Families wants to remind clients who receive food assistance, temporary cash assistance, refugee assistance and food assistance employment and training payments that their old electronic benefits transfer cards with the flag design will be deactivated on Sept. 21.
The new card was phased in beginning in January and has already been distributed to most clients. Changing the cards allows for increased security and durability. Any client who still has the old card needs to call (888) 356-3281 to receive a new ACCESS card, which has a lighthouse design.
Similar to a commercial credit or debit card, the new ACCESS card has an expiration date and will be replaced automatically every four years with a new design. Authorized retailers statewide have been informed of this change, and posters and fliers have been distributed through local community partners and in DCF service centers.
Clients who want to check their balance and access other useful information can call EBT customer service 24 hours a day at (888) 356-3281 or visit www.ebtaccount.jpmorgan.com .
In addition, clients are encouraged to contact customer service to set up voice, email and text alerts that will give them regular updates regarding their balances.
The federal food assistance program provides temporary help to low-income individuals and families to purchase food.
The temporary cash assistance program provides short-term cash benefits to families with children.
To apply for benefits, visit www.myflorida.com/accessflorida.