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'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.

Just wanted to jump in as someone who went through this exact same situation with my grandmother in LA County last month. The combination approach that Raul mentioned works really well - we did the detailed written statements plus bank deposit records and it was approved within a week. One thing I'd add is to make sure you document WHY employer verification isn't available in the written statement. We wrote something like "Employer operates small cash business and is unable to provide written documentation due to informal payroll system." The eligibility worker appreciated the transparency. Also, if you have any regular customers or clients who can vouch for the work being done (even informally), that can help strengthen the case. My grandmother cleans houses and we got a simple note from one of her regular clients confirming she works there weekly. Every little bit of documentation helps paint the complete picture! The stress of these deadlines is real but LA County workers are generally understanding when you're being proactive and thorough like you're doing.

As someone who just went through this process with my elderly uncle in LA County, I want to emphasize how important it is to submit everything at once if possible. We made the mistake of sending documents piecemeal and it delayed the whole process. One additional option that hasn't been mentioned - if your mother-in-law and father-in-law do any regular shopping at the same stores, sometimes those receipts can help show a pattern of living expenses that supports the income they're claiming. It's not primary verification but it can be supporting documentation. Also, make sure to write down the name of any worker you speak with and reference numbers from calls. LA County processes a huge volume of cases and having specific details helps when you need to follow up. The fact that they gave you a 10-day extension shows they're working with you, which is a good sign! One last tip - if you end up needing to visit the office in person, try to go early in the morning or right after lunch. Those tend to be the least busy times and workers have more bandwidth to help explain exactly what they need.

ANOTHER THING to know is that even if you miss your recertification paperwork deadline, you still have a 30-day grace period to submit it without losing benefits completely!! They might stop benefits briefly but when you submit within that 30 days they'll restore from the discontinuation date. A lot of workers don't tell clients this!!!

Hey Henry! I'm new here but went through something similar last year. Just wanted to add that if you're having trouble getting through to your worker by phone, you can also visit the Contra Costa County office in person at 40 Douglas Dr in Martinez. I know it's not always convenient, but sometimes showing up in person gets faster results than waiting on hold. They have walk-in hours on certain days. Also, when you do get through to your worker (whether by phone or in person), make sure to ask them to put a note in your case file about your mail access issue - this creates a paper trail that protects you if there are any problems with missed deadlines. Good luck!