County Urges Residents to be Aware of SNAP and Medicaid Scams
By County County, Ohio / March 11, 2026
CUYAHOGA COUNTY, OH – Cuyahoga County Job and Family Services, the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS), and the Ohio Department of Medicaid (ODM) are warning Ohioans to beware of scams targeting Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients and those who receive Medicaid services. Customers should be on the lookout for both telephone and mail scams targeting SNAP and Medicaid recipients.
Snap Scam Report
What’s Being Reported:
ODJFS has reported that SNAP recipients are being contacted by phone or text and urged to call back immediately, or their SNAP account will be suspended. When the cardholder calls the number back, it’s either a real business or government agency number that the scammers have “spoofed” or made to appear as though it were coming from a real government agency or business. Sometimes, customers call the number back and are connected to a phony version of their SNAP Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) Card’s self-service phone menu that asks for a card number and other personal identifying information.
How to Avoid the Scam:
NEVER share your card number or PIN unless you are calling your SNAP EBT Card provider directly. To reach the SNAP EBT provider for Ohio Direction cards, call 1-866-386-3071. For more tips on protecting your benefits, see the Tips for Protecting Your Electronic Benefits page on the Cuyahoga County Health and Human Services (HHS) website. SNAP customers are encouraged to download the Connect EBT App, which is officially approved by ODJFS for locking and protecting your SNAP card. See the Connect EBT App Flyer. See the video on how to use the App.
Medicaid Scam Report
What’s Being Reported:
ODM has reported that some Ohio residents have received a fraudulent postcard that appears to come from ODM but is fraudulent and not sent by any state agency. The program referenced and phone number on the postcard are fraudulent.
How to Avoid the Scam:
Customers with questions about Medicaid should call 1-844-640-OHIO (6446). Customers should contact Cuyahoga Job and Family Services if they are interested in programs to assist with purchasing food or paying utility bills.
