Troubleshooting EBT Card Issues During Online Purchases

Emily Chan
Published Aug 15, 2026

If your EBT card is being declined when trying to buy SNAP-eligible groceries online, your state likely has automatic security settings turned on to prevent fraud and theft.

Several states—such as Alabama, Ohio, Mississippi, and South Carolina—automatically block online transactions and high-risk payments by default.

You can easily fix this issue by adjusting your EBT card's security settings before placing an order.
 

How to Unlock Your EBT Card

  • Using the Propel App: Open the app, tap the shield icon to view your security settings, and turn off the feature labeled "block online transactions" or "block high-risk transactions."
  • Using Other EBT Apps (ConnectEBT or ebtEDGE): Log in to your provider's app or website, locate your security settings (often listed under "Protect My Account"), and toggle off the online block setting.

Once you turn off these security blocks, you can complete online grocery orders for pickup or delivery with participating retailers.

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