Starting October 22, 2026, the Georgia Department of Human Services blocked online and out-of-state EBT transactions by default.
EBT cards must be unlocked first — otherwise they cannot be used online or outside Georgia and its bordering states: Alabama, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. Pickup orders are treated as online orders, so these transactions are also blocked by default.
To make a purchase using your EBT card online or in an allowed state, unlock your card in the ConnectEBT mobile app, on the ConnectEBT website (ConnectEBT.com), or by calling EBT Customer Service at 1-888-421-3281. Georgia DFCS announcement
Newly issued and replacement EBT cards arrive in an inactive status. Activate the card before your first purchase.
For up-to-date information, please visit the Georgia Division of Family and Children Services .