Craighead County, AR – Jonesboro Right Now – Local families receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits will soon have stronger tools to combat scammers and track their funds in real time.

The Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS) announced that the new ebtEDGE mobile app is rolling out statewide as part of a system-wide transition to a new electronic card vendor (FIS). Local beneficiaries in Craighead County can download the app now, and account linking features will go live on Monday, July 27.

The app brings security upgrades directly to cardholders, including:

  • Card Locking: Beneficiaries can freeze/lock their EBT card instantly when not in use to block unauthorized purchases.
  • Out-of-State Blocks: Users can prevent out-of-state transactions to stop remote skimming.
  • Real-Time Tracking: Instant access to account balances and recent purchases.

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“The security of our SNAP beneficiaries’ accounts is a top priority at DHS, and this new app includes helpful features to lock out would-be thieves and protect benefits,” said Mary Franklin, director of the DHS Division of County Operations.

Important System Outage Planned This Weekend

Local EBT cardholders should prepare for a temporary system outage:

  • When: Begins Saturday night, July 25 at 11:00 p.m. and ends Sunday, July 26.
  • Impact: No EBT transactions will be processed at grocery stores, nor will balance checks be available via telephone, online, or app during this window.

DHS advises Craighead County residents to make any necessary food purchases prior to 11 p.m. Saturday.

Avoid Fraud & Download Safely

Officials urge residents to avoid fake third-party websites or unverified EBT balance apps, which scammers frequently use to steal benefits.

To download the authentic ebtEDGE New app safely, download it directly from the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or follow verified setup links at ar.gov/snap. Current EBT cards will continue working, though updated chip cards will be issued in the future.

Local Assistance & Resources

For in-person support or questions regarding SNAP enrollment and benefits, Craighead County residents can contact or visit the local DHS office:

Craighead County DHS office is located at 1600 Browns Lane Access Rd, Jonesboro, AR 72401 and can be reached at (870) 972-1732. The office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

(Note: The separate AR SNAP Companion item-checker app remains active and is unaffected by this update. The old ConnectEBT app is being officially retired.)

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