i had a weird thing happen once where i changed my pin and then it wouldnt work at the store even tho i KNOW i put it in right!!! had to call again and change it again. just a heads up that might happen

Just wanted to add that if you're ever in a situation where you need to change your PIN urgently like this, you can also temporarily freeze your EBT card through the automated system while you're deciding on a new PIN. This gives you extra protection if you think someone has your number but you need time to think of a secure new PIN. You can call the same 1-877-328-9677 number and choose the option to temporarily block your card, then call back later to unblock it and change your PIN. I learned this trick from a social worker and it's been really helpful when I've felt unsure about my card security.

UPDATE: I called my county office (took forever but finally got through) and they explained that the $20 increase is just the federal adjustment but I might qualify for more based on my specific circumstances. The worker reviewed my case and found that they hadn't been applying the correct utility allowance for my area. They're recalculating my benefits and said I should get about $45 more per month plus some retroactive benefits for the past 3 months! Still not enough with these crazy food prices, but better than just the $20. If anyone else is frustrated, definitely call and ask for a full review of your deductions!

I'm dealing with the same frustrating situation! Got the notice about the $20 increase and honestly laughed because it's such a slap in the face. I'm a single mom working part-time while going to school, and my teenage son eats me out of house and home. What really gets me is that they base these adjustments on some theoretical "Thrifty Food Plan" that clearly wasn't designed by anyone who actually shops for groceries in 2025. I've started meal prepping like crazy and buying everything in bulk when it's on sale, but even with coupons and shopping at multiple stores for the best deals, we're still running short by the third week of every month. The farmers market tip someone mentioned sounds promising though - going to check if any near me do the Market Match program. It's wild that we have to become expert strategists just to feed our families on what's supposed to be adequate assistance.

Just wanted to add that if you're having trouble with the phone lines, you can also try visiting your local county office in person. I know it's a hassle, but sometimes it's faster than waiting on hold. They can update your contact info on the spot and print out your current benefit amounts. Also, bring ALL your documentation - pay stubs, rent receipts, childcare costs, etc. With your income and those deductions for rent and childcare, you should still qualify for decent benefits. The caseworkers can run the calculations right there so you'll know exactly what to expect before your recertification appointment.

I'm dealing with a similar situation right now! For what it's worth, I just completed my recertification last week and can confirm the 2025 amounts others mentioned are accurate. With your income of $2700 and those rent/childcare expenses, you should still qualify for both programs. The childcare deduction alone will help a lot with your net income calculation. One thing I learned - if you can't get your BenefitsCal account fixed before your recertification deadline, you can still complete the process by phone or in person. Don't let the account lockout stress you out too much. The county workers can access everything on their end and walk you through the renewal even if you can't log in yourself. Also, definitely mention that your rent went up when you recertify - that higher shelter cost deduction might actually increase your CalFresh benefits compared to last year, even with the same income. Good luck!

I STILL haven't gotten an answer about whether my kids qualify since their school has universal free lunch. Does anyone know if that counts? Do I have to be on actual CalFresh?

Just wanted to add that you can also check your card balance online at www.ebtcalifornia.com or by downloading the ebtEDGE mobile app. This is super convenient so you don't have to call the number on the back of the card every time. I set up accounts for all my kids' cards last year and it made tracking their spending so much easier. The app also shows you exactly where the cards were used, which is helpful for budgeting. Also, don't forget that these cards can be used at farmers markets that accept EBT - many of them even have matching programs that double your benefits for fresh produce!

Update us on what happens! The EBT 4.0 rollout has been a mess in many counties. One important thing to know: if they do have to issue emergency benefits because of their error, make sure they give you the full month's amount. Some workers try to prorate it based on the days left in the month, but if it's their system error, you're entitled to the full month's benefits retroactive to your normal issuance date.

UPDATE: Finally got this resolved! I called this morning using the Claimyr service someone recommended, and it actually worked - got through to a real person in about 20 minutes. The worker said there was a 'card synchronization error' that affected several people who got new 4.0 cards. She had to get supervisor approval, but they were able to transfer my full benefits while I was on the phone. Just checked my balance and it's all there! For anyone else having this issue, definitely call and specifically mention it's a '4.0 card synchronization error' - apparently that helps them know exactly what to do.