I'm dealing with something similar right now - my benefits got cut off unexpectedly last week and I've been getting the runaround trying to figure out why. One thing that helped me was calling the fraud hotline (1-800-344-8477) instead of the regular customer service line. They have shorter wait times and can sometimes see what's happening with your case even if they can't fix it directly. They told me there was a "pending verification" flag on my account that I never got a notice about. At least now I know what documents to bring when I go in person. Also, if you have kids under 6, you might qualify for WIC as a backup food assistance program while you get this sorted out. Hang in there - the system is definitely broken but your family deserves these benefits.

I'm so sorry you're going through this - the phone system is absolutely awful and it's infuriating when you need help urgently. A few things that have helped me and others I know: 1. Try calling your county's main CalFresh line instead of the EBT customer service - they can actually help with benefit issues while the EBT line is just for card problems 2. Call right at 8:00 AM sharp on weekdays, preferably Monday or Tuesday 3. Have your case number, SSN, and SAR7 confirmation ready before you call 4. If you submitted your SAR7 on time but benefits stopped, there might be a verification request that got lost in the mail or sent to an old address Also check if there are any local food banks or emergency food assistance programs in your area while you're getting this resolved. Many don't require applications and can help bridge the gap. The 211 helpline (dial 2-1-1) can connect you with local emergency food resources. Don't give up - you and your kids deserve these benefits and there are people in the system who do want to help once you can reach them. The fraud hotline number someone mentioned above is also worth trying if the regular lines don't work.

FINAL UPDATE: My benefits were finally loaded this morning! Full amount, no reduction. For anyone else experiencing this issue, definitely try that special hotline number that was shared. I got through in about 15 minutes yesterday, and they confirmed my case was affected by the system update but was scheduled for processing last night. Sure enough, funds were there this morning. Thanks everyone for your help and suggestions!

So glad to see this resolved! I'm dealing with the same issue in Fresno County - benefits were supposed to load on the 12th and still nothing. Just tried that special hotline number and actually got through in about 8 minutes! The rep confirmed my case is in the queue and should process within 24-48 hours. She also mentioned they're prioritizing households with children and elderly members, so if that applies to anyone still waiting, definitely mention it when you call. Thanks for sharing all the updates throughout this thread - it really helped knowing I wasn't alone in this situation!

I'm new to this program and this thread has been super helpful! Just to add - if anyone is in Orange County, I called yesterday and they said they're aiming for June 16th for the first batch (A-L) and June 23rd for the second batch (M-Z). They also mentioned that if you move during the summer, you need to update your address ASAP because they can't reissue cards easily once the program starts distributing. Also learned that the $120 is per child, not per household, which is awesome for families with multiple kids!

Just wanted to share what I found out from Riverside County - they're doing their distribution June 14th-28th in alphabetical batches too. The worker I spoke with mentioned that if you haven't received Summer EBT before but think you're eligible, you can also check the CA.gov/SummerEBT website to see if there's an application portal for your county. Some counties have online applications for families who might have been missed in the automatic enrollment. Also learned that the benefits don't roll over year to year, so make sure to use them before the expiration date (usually end of August/early September). Hope this helps other newcomers like me!

So glad you got your card sorted out! I'm actually dealing with something similar right now - my card stopped working yesterday and I think the magnetic strip got damaged. Good to know about being able to go to any county office in California. I was dreading having to wait for a replacement in the mail. Going to call around tomorrow to find the closest office with a working card printer. Thanks for sharing your experience!

Just want to add that if you're in a real emergency situation with kids to feed, some local food banks or churches might be able to help with emergency food assistance while you're waiting for your replacement card. I know it's not ideal and you shouldn't have to rely on charity when your benefits are right there, but sometimes you gotta do what you gotta do for the kids. Also, if you have any neighbors or family who shop at stores that accept EBT online (like Amazon Fresh or Walmart grocery pickup), you might be able to ask them to order groceries for you and pay them back once your new card arrives. Just another option to consider!

So happy to hear you got it resolved quickly! This thread is going to be super helpful for others who go through the same thing. I had no idea about half the stuff people shared here - like the Walmart Pay option and the policy changes from the lawsuit. Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences!

This whole thread has been incredibly helpful! I'm new to CalFresh and honestly had no idea there were emergency replacement options beyond just waiting for the mail. The fact that you can get a same-day replacement at the county office is huge - definitely something more people should know about. Also really appreciate everyone sharing the practical tips like getting there early, bringing your case number, and the policy changes from the lawsuit. Going to bookmark this thread in case I ever need it. Hope your benefit replacement claim goes smoothly @e48ca6365907!