This is incredibly helpful information! I had no idea about the Bringing Families Home program or the MFG exemption. I'll write these down to discuss during my interview. Thank you so much for taking the time to share all this.

Hey Javier, I'm in a similar situation with rent increases and waiting for benefits. One thing that helped me was contacting my local Community Action Agency - they often have emergency rental assistance funds that move faster than county programs. Also, if you're in a city with rent stabilization laws, document everything about your rent increase (date of notice, amount, etc.) because some cities require 30-60 days notice for increases over certain percentages. The Tenant Protection Act might apply to your situation too. Don't forget to ask your CalFresh worker about the Homeless Assistance Program if you end up facing actual eviction - it can sometimes provide immediate help with first month's rent if you have to move. Good luck with your interview next week!

So glad you got your benefits sorted out! This is actually a really helpful thread for anyone else who might experience this. I went through the same thing a few months ago and was panicking because I didn't understand what "authorized" meant. It's frustrating that the EBT system doesn't explain these statuses better - a simple note saying "funds will be available within 1-2 business days" would save so much stress. Thanks for sharing your experience and the update!

This thread is so helpful! I'm relatively new to CalFresh and had this exact same panic last month when I saw "authorized" for the first time. Like others mentioned, it's really frustrating that the system doesn't clearly explain what these different statuses mean. I ended up calling my county office (took forever to get through) and the worker explained that "authorized" basically means your benefits have been approved and processed, but there's always a delay before they actually hit your card. She said it's like when you deposit a check - the bank processes it but there's a clearing period. Now I know to expect this every month and not stress about it. Really glad your benefits came through @Liam O'Donnell and thanks for posting the update!

If you're really struggling with food while waiting, don't forget about food banks and pantries! Most don't require any paperwork or income verification - you just show up. Use findhelp.org or call 211 to find ones near you. Also, WIC might be faster to get approved if you qualify (they serve pregnant/breastfeeding women and kids under 5). Some churches and community centers also do free meal programs. I know it's not the same as having your own EBT card but it can help bridge the gap while you're waiting for CalFresh approval. Hang in there - it's frustrating but you'll get through this! 💪

I went through this exact same situation in Orange County last year! Applied online and was panicking about the wait time with two kids at home. Here's what helped me: 1. Call your county office first thing in the morning (like 8am sharp) - that's when you're most likely to get through without crazy hold times 2. Ask specifically about expedited processing - based on your rent vs income situation, you should definitely qualify for the 3-day approval 3. While you're waiting, seriously look into local food pantries. I was hesitant at first but they were a lifesaver. Many have fresh produce and even frozen items, not just canned goods 4. If you have any friends/family who can help with a grocery run, don't be too proud to ask. Most people understand how tough it is right now 5. Check your email AND your BenefitsCal account daily - sometimes they send requests for additional info through the portal and if you miss it, it delays everything You're doing the right thing by applying and advocating for your family. The system is slow but it works. Hang in there! 🙏

Hey Keisha! Congrats on getting approved for CalFresh! 🎉 I see you've gotten tons of great advice here about deposit dates and the ConnectEBT app. One thing I'd add is to keep all your CalFresh paperwork organized in one place - approval letters, case number info, any correspondence from your county office. You'll need to reference these documents pretty regularly, especially when it comes time for recertification. Also, if you're looking to stretch your benefits further, check if your area has any food banks or pantries that complement CalFresh - many people don't realize you can use both resources together. The combination can really help make your food budget work better. Good luck with everything, and don't hesitate to ask questions here - this community is super supportive!

Hey Keisha! Welcome and congrats on your approval! 🎉 I see you've gotten amazing advice here already. Just wanted to add that you can also call the EBT customer service number on the back of your card (1-877-328-9677) to check your balance and transaction history once your benefits load. They have an automated system that's available 24/7, so you don't have to wait for business hours. Also, pro tip: benefits usually load overnight, so if your deposit date is the 7th, check your balance early morning on the 7th rather than staying up late on the 6th waiting for it! The system typically updates between 12-6 AM. You're going to do great - the first month feels overwhelming but it becomes second nature pretty quickly!

i tried doing this with my pin but forgot what i changed it to 🤦‍♀️🤦‍♀️ had to go to the office in person to reset it and missed work so lost money anyway lol. maybe write it down somewhere safe if ur forgetful like me!!!

This is such valuable advice! I've been working with families affected by EBT theft in my volunteer role, and the PIN timing strategy you've shared is one of the most practical solutions I've heard. One additional tip I'd add: if you shop at the same stores regularly, try to vary your shopping locations and times after changing your PIN. Thieves sometimes target specific store locations where they've successfully installed skimmers. Also, for anyone who has been a victim of EBT theft - document EVERYTHING. Take photos of your transaction history, keep records of when you reported it, and save all correspondence with the county. While California isn't currently replacing stolen CalFresh benefits, there's ongoing litigation and policy pressure that might change this. Having documentation could be crucial if replacement policies change in the future. Stay strong everyone - this shouldn't be something we have to deal with, but sharing strategies like this helps protect our community! 💪