Thank you for this clear explanation! I checked my transaction history and that's exactly what happened - my September benefits came at the end of August. I wish they would make this clearer when they do early deposits. At least now I know what to expect around holidays.

I'm new to CalFresh and this thread has been super helpful! I just want to add that if anyone else is confused about their deposits, you can also check your benefit letter or log into your county's online portal. Mine shows a calendar view of when my benefits will be deposited each month, which has been really useful for planning my grocery budget. Also, I learned that if you ever think there's an error with your deposit amount, you have to report it within 90 days or you might lose the right to get it corrected. Just thought that might be useful info for others navigating this system!

Update: Called my county office this morning (took 45 minutes to get through) and explained our situation with the kids having no food. The worker was actually really helpful and said they can issue a 'hardship replacement' for 60% of my stolen benefits while the investigation continues. Should be loaded onto my card within 3 business days. The worker mentioned they're seeing tons of these cases right now and the investigation team is overwhelmed. She also recommended switching to the virtual card through the app which has better security features. So that's something at least - 60% is better than nothing while we wait!

This is exactly what happened to me last month - $534 stolen from my card on March 15th. I'm a single mom with 3 kids and we were literally eating ramen for weeks while waiting. It took 52 days to get reimbursed, not the 30 they promised. What really helped was going to my county office IN PERSON instead of just calling. The worker there was able to fast-track an emergency food allotment for $200 while my case was pending. Also definitely file that police report - some counties require it for the claim to be processed. And please switch to the virtual card ASAP! I learned the hard way that the physical cards are basically sitting ducks for skimmers. Hang in there, the money will come but the system is definitely broken right now.

Also, if your P-EBT card does end up going to your old address despite your best efforts, you can request a replacement card once you know it's been issued. The replacement process takes about 7-10 business days. Just call that same P-EBT hotline (877-328-9677) and follow the prompts for lost/stolen/never received card.

Just went through this same situation two months ago when I moved from San Diego to Sacramento! Here's what worked for me: I called the P-EBT hotline multiple times (like others mentioned, avoid Monday mornings), and when I finally got through, the rep told me something important that wasn't mentioned here yet - they can put a "temporary hold" on your card mailing if you call within 2 weeks of when your county's cards are supposed to be issued. This gives you extra time to sort out the address situation without losing the card to your old address. For LA County since you're in the November-December window, I'd call ASAP and ask about this hold option. Also, definitely set up informed delivery with USPS so you can track when government mail is coming to your address - it's been a lifesaver for knowing when benefit cards are actually being delivered.

UPDATE: I just checked my EBT card and my benefits were finally loaded! Looks like they're starting to fix the issue. Check your balances, everyone!

Mine just came through too! I was getting really worried since I'm a single mom and needed to do grocery shopping today. This whole situation was so stressful - I wish they had sent out better notifications about the delay instead of leaving everyone in the dark. At least now I know to check this community when weird stuff happens with benefits. Thanks to everyone who shared info and resources!