Just wanted to thank everyone for all this amazing advice! I went to Walmart yesterday and successfully bought seeds for tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and some lettuce with my EBT card - no questions asked! I also got some mint and basil seeds since fresh herbs are so expensive at the store. The cashier didn't even blink when I paid with EBT. This is going to help stretch my food budget so much once things start growing. I'll update later in the season with how my garden turns out!

This is such a helpful thread! I'm also on CalFresh and had no idea about the seed/plant benefit. One thing I'd add for anyone starting out - check if your local library has gardening books or even seed libraries where you can borrow seeds for free! My library has a "seed swap" program every spring. Also, if you're worried about space, don't overlook container gardening. I grow cherry tomatoes, lettuce, and herbs in old yogurt containers and buckets on my apartment balcony. Even a small windowsill can produce enough fresh herbs to save you $20+ per month at the grocery store. The initial investment with your EBT benefits really does pay off!

UPDATE: Finally got it fixed! The Claimyr service connected me with a worker after about 50 minutes. The worker confirmed it was a security freeze from the app crash. She asked a few verification questions and unfroze my account right away. My EBT card is working again! For anyone else dealing with this - definitely try Claimyr or go to the office in person. The regular EBT customer service line can't help with this specific issue. Thanks everyone for your help!

I'm so glad you got this resolved! This thread is really helpful - I had no idea about the Claimyr service or that you could set up PIN reset authorization questions. I've been dreading using the BenefitsCal app because I keep hearing about these crashes, but now I know what to do if it happens to me. It's frustrating that we have to rely on workarounds for what should be basic functionality, but at least there are solutions. Thanks for updating us with what worked!

Thanks everyone for all the helpful responses! I feel so much better now. To summarize what I learned: 1. I don't need to file taxes to keep my CalFresh (they're separate systems) 2. What matters is reporting accurately on my SAR7 and recertification 3. Since my financial aid only goes to educational expenses, I'm correctly reporting $0 income 4. I still qualify as a student through the EOP exemption I appreciate all the help! This community is amazing.

Great summary! Just wanted to add one more tip for your recertification - if they do ask for a zero income affidavit, be specific about how you meet your basic needs (family support, food pantries, etc.). The more detailed you are, the smoother the process usually goes. Also, keep copies of everything you submit because sometimes documents get "lost" in the system and you'll need to resubmit. You've got this!

I just went through recertification last week and asked this same question! The worker told me October is when the yearly increase happens. She said there was a rumor going around about an April increase but it's not true for CalFresh. Something about fiscal year budgeting at the federal level or whatever. Anyways hope that helps!

Hey everyone! I'm new to CalFresh and this conversation has been super helpful. I was also expecting some kind of increase this month because I saw something on social media about benefit increases, but now I understand it was probably about a different program. It's good to know that if my expenses go up (like rent or utilities), I can report that anytime and potentially get more benefits rather than waiting for the annual October adjustment. Thanks for all the clear explanations - this community is really supportive!

I've been using the EBT Edge app for about a year now and can definitely confirm what everyone else is saying - locking your card won't affect your benefit deposits at all! I actually keep mine locked most of the time as a security precaution, especially after hearing stories about benefit theft. Your CalFresh will deposit on schedule tomorrow regardless of the lock status. Just wanted to add that if you're ever unsure about your balance or deposit status, you can also check by calling the automated phone line on the back of your card (it's usually faster than waiting for the app to update). The automated system is available 24/7 and gives you real-time balance info without having to wait on hold for a representative.

I've been through this exact situation multiple times and can definitely put your mind at ease! The card lock feature only prevents transactions from being processed - it doesn't interfere with benefit deposits at all. Think of it like putting a freeze on your debit card vs. your employer still being able to direct deposit your paycheck. Two completely separate systems. Your CalFresh benefits will absolutely deposit tomorrow as scheduled. I actually recommend keeping your card locked when you're not actively using it - it's become a habit for me after hearing too many horror stories about benefit theft. Just remember to unlock it before you go shopping, and as others mentioned, give it a few minutes after unlocking before trying to use it at a store terminal. The county offices can be frustrating to reach, but for future reference, the EBT customer service line (on the back of your card) is usually your best bet for card-related issues. They're available 24/7 and can help with unlocking if the app ever gives you trouble.