Just a heads-up for everyone in this thread: The California EBT system will be down for maintenance from February 3-4, 2025 (next weekend) from 11 PM Saturday until 8 AM Sunday. If you're planning to do your beginning-of-month shopping during that time, you'll need to reschedule. This is part of the security upgrades they're implementing to address the skimming issues. If you haven't already, download the ConnectEBT mobile app - it lets you temporarily freeze and unfreeze your card between uses, which is another layer of protection against skimming.

Another thing that's helped me is signing up for text alerts through the EBT customer service line. You can set it up so you get a text every time your card is used, with the amount and location. That way if someone skims your card, you'll know within minutes instead of finding out days later when you go to buy groceries. Also, I've started taking photos of the card readers before I use them. Sounds paranoid but it only takes 2 seconds and if there's a skimmer installed, you'll have evidence for the police report. The legit readers are usually flush with the machine, but skimmers often stick out a little or look slightly different in color. Stay safe everyone - these scammers are getting more sophisticated but we can protect ourselves if we stay vigilant!

Thank you everyone for the helpful responses! Looks like I'll stick with my plan to go shopping after 6am on the 11th. Good to know that the time hasn't changed, and I appreciate all the extra information about how the system works.

I've been on CalFresh for about 3 years and can confirm the 6am timing is still accurate. One tip I learned - if you're planning to shop right at 6am, I'd recommend waiting until at least 6:05am just to be safe. Sometimes there can be a few minutes delay in the system processing, especially on heavy benefit days like the 1st-3rd of the month when lots of people are accessing their benefits at once. Also, some store card readers seem to take a minute or two longer to connect with the EBT system in the early morning hours. Better to wait those extra few minutes than have an awkward declined transaction at checkout!

I'm so glad I found this thread! I've been stressing about this same issue for weeks. Like @Miguel Ramos, I was getting an extra $298 on top of my regular $623 for my family of 3, and it just disappeared after May. I had no idea it was called the CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable Supplement or that it was always meant to be temporary. I wish they had sent out clearer notices about when it would end - I would have budgeted differently if I knew. The information about Summer EBT is a lifesaver though! I'm heading to BenefitsCal.com right now to apply for my two kids. Has anyone actually received their Summer EBT benefits yet? I'm curious about the timeline for when they get loaded onto the card.

This whole situation is so frustrating! I've been dealing with the same thing - my extra $156 vanished after May and I had no clue why. I'm a college student with a part-time job and that extra money was crucial for buying fresh groceries instead of just ramen and canned food. Thank you @Keisha Johnson and @Zainab Omar for explaining about the Fruit and Vegetable Supplement ending - I literally had no idea that's what it was called or that it was temporary. The lack of communication from CalFresh is really disappointing. I'm definitely going to look into the Market Match program at my local farmers market. Does anyone know if the Summer EBT program is available for college students too, or is it just for families with children under 18?

Update: Thank you all for your responses! I showed this thread to my godmother, and while she still insists "they used to do it back in the day," she's now convinced it won't happen with my application. I think I've calmed her fears enough that she's not going to kick me out, lol. My phone interview is scheduled for next week, so hopefully everything goes smoothly from here!

Great to hear you got it sorted out! Your godmother probably was remembering something real from decades ago - the old welfare system was much more intrusive back then. But today's CalFresh is totally different. For your phone interview, just have your ID, proof of where you're staying (maybe a letter from your godmother), and any income documentation ready. Since you're new to California, they might ask about your move from Tennessee, but that's totally normal. The fact that you properly closed your SNAP case in TN before applying in CA shows you're doing everything right. Hope your interview goes smoothly and you get approved quickly!

Since no one has mentioned it yet - if you need to check your balance but don't want to use an app, you can always call the number on the back of your EBT card (877-328-9677). I know you mentioned preferring not to call, but it's good to know the option exists if your phone is having issues or you're somewhere without good internet. Just another option to have in your back pocket!

Welcome to CalFresh! I've been using it for about 6 months now and wanted to add a few tips that helped me when I was starting out. Definitely get the Providers app like everyone mentioned - it's been a lifesaver. One thing I wish I'd known earlier: many grocery stores have special sections or sales for EBT users, but they don't always advertise it well. At my local Ralph's they have a discount produce section that's perfect for stretching your benefits further. Also, if you shop at stores like Whole Foods or Sprouts, they sometimes have "EBT eligible" tags on sale items which makes it easier to spot good deals. Oh, and don't be shy about asking store employees if you're unsure whether something is EBT eligible - most of them are pretty helpful about it. The cashiers usually know right away if an item won't go through. Good luck with everything!