Just wanted to add that you can check your Summer EBT eligibility online at ca.gov/summerf00d or call 1-877-328-9677. If your kids qualified for free or reduced-price school meals during the 2024-25 school year, they should automatically get the Summer EBT benefits loaded onto a separate card (not your regular EBT card). The benefits are loaded all at once in June for the whole summer - $135 total per eligible child ($45 x 3 months). Also, if you haven't received your card by now and think you should qualify, definitely call that number because sometimes there are processing delays!

I'm new to CalFresh and this community has been so helpful! I was also confused about the benefits this month. My case worker mentioned that the annual COLA increase might make it seem like there's "extra" money, but it's just the regular adjustment. For anyone still struggling with food costs, I found that shopping at discount grocery stores like Aldi and using the CalFresh restaurant locator for hot meals has really helped stretch my benefits. Also, don't forget about local food pantries - many don't require any paperwork and can supplement your monthly groceries. The combination of CalFresh + food banks + Summer EBT for kids (if eligible) can really make a difference during these expensive times!

So glad you got it resolved! Thanks for sharing the update - this is really helpful info for others who might face the same situation. The tip about calling right at 8am is gold, and knowing that some counties require the signed form even after online updates is crucial. Hope your kids get their Summer EBT cards without any issues now!

That's such a relief that you got it sorted out! Your experience is really valuable for other parents - I had no idea that some counties require both the online update AND a signed form. I'm dealing with a similar address change situation right now and was only planning to do the online update. Do you know if the CF 37 form is the same one used across all California counties, or does each county have their own version? Also, did they give you a timeline for when the address change would be fully processed?

my cousin works for calfresh in san diego county and she told me they got specific instructions not to count that tax refund thing for any benefits including calfresh. so your definitely fine dont worry about it

This whole thread has been so helpful! I'm in a similar situation - got my Middle Class Tax Refund ($600) in January and have been losing sleep over whether to report it. Based on what everyone's saying, especially @Dallas Villalobos with the detailed explanations, it sounds like we're all good. I already used mine for groceries and utilities anyway. It's just frustrating that there's no clear communication from the county about these things when they happen. Like why didn't they send out a notice saying "hey, this new tax refund doesn't count for benefits"? Would save everyone so much stress!

UPDATE: Just heard back and the Temporary Homeless Assistance was approved! They're paying for a hotel for the next 16 days, which gives me time until my first paycheck and to find a new place. Thank you all SO MUCH for your advice - especially about asking specifically for the Temporary Homeless Assistance program. The worker also referred me to their Housing Support Program for help finding a new permanent place. I'm still stressed but at least my son will have a safe place to sleep.

So glad to hear the Temporary Homeless Assistance came through! That's such a relief. Just wanted to add - when you're looking for a new place, some landlords are more willing to work with CalWORKs recipients than others. You might want to ask your Housing Support Program worker if they have a list of "CalWORKs-friendly" landlords or properties. Also, if you're having trouble finding a place that will accept you, ask about the security deposit assistance - sometimes offering to pay a larger security deposit upfront (with the county's help) can make landlords more willing to rent to you. Wishing you and your son the best!

UPDATE: I just got off the phone with the EBT Fraud Department (finally!) and asked specifically about San Bernardino skimming cases. The representative told me they're seeing a HUGE spike in fraud cases from that area - apparently there's an organized group installing skimmers at certain stores. She actually gave me some helpful info: They're expediting claims for victims of this specific fraud ring, and are working with USDA on a special process. Ask your caseworker to check if your case matches the "San Bernardino County January 2025 Skimming Pattern" in their system. If it does, they can fast-track your replacement! I'm going to try this with my claim too since mine happened in a neighboring area. Will let you know if it works!

I'm so sorry this happened to you! EBT fraud is becoming such a widespread problem. As someone who works in social services, I want to add a few important points to what others have shared: 1. Document EVERYTHING - take photos of your transaction history, save receipts from where you actually were when the fraud occurred, and keep records of all your phone calls with EBT customer service. 2. When you file the CF 303 form, you can actually submit it online through your county's portal in most cases - you don't necessarily need to go in person. Check your county's website or call to confirm. 3. If your initial claim gets denied (which unfortunately happens sometimes), don't give up! You have the right to appeal and request a hearing. Many legitimate claims get approved on appeal. 4. While waiting for resolution, ask your caseworker about emergency food assistance programs. Some counties have specific protocols for EBT theft victims. The good news is that California's replacement policy is actually better than many states. Stay persistent and keep following up. Your kids deserve to eat and you deserve to get your stolen benefits back!