keep us updated after u call back! now im worried cuz my cousin just reported theft last week and didnt get reference # either...

I'm so sorry this happened to you - EBT theft is becoming way too common and it's incredibly stressful when you're depending on those benefits to feed your family. Based on what everyone else has shared, it definitely sounds like you need to call back and get a proper claim reference number. I went through something similar about 6 months ago when $450 was stolen from my card. The first person I spoke with seemed confused about the process, but when I called back and asked specifically for someone who handles EBT theft claims, I got connected to someone much more knowledgeable. They gave me a claim number immediately and walked me through exactly what would happen next. A few things that might help: - Write down the exact date/time you called and any details the first worker gave you - When you call back, ask for the claim number from your previous call first - if they can't find it, that's a red flag - Ask about emergency food assistance while your claim is being processed - Get everything in writing if possible (email confirmation, case notes, etc.) The waiting is the worst part, but from what I've seen here, most people do get their benefits back eventually. Hang in there and definitely don't give up on getting that reference number - you deserve to have proper documentation of your claim.

UPDATE: I just got off the phone with my county office (finally!) and wanted to share what I learned in case it helps anyone else. They confirmed there's been a wave of EBT theft in our area even with changed PINs. Good news: I'm getting emergency replacement benefits within 3 business days! Had to fill out the CF 303T form and provide my police report number. Also requested the new chip card that someone mentioned here. They suggested I: 1. Get a completely new card (not just PIN change) 2. Only use the card inside major grocery stores (no gas stations/ATMs) 3. Cover the keypad when entering PIN 4. Set up transaction alerts on BenefitsCal Thanks everyone for your help! This community saved me so much stress.

So glad you got your replacement benefits sorted out! This whole thread has been incredibly helpful - I didn't even know about the CF 303T form or the new chip cards. I'm in a similar situation (benefits stolen last week despite changing my PIN) and was feeling totally lost until reading all these responses. Going to call my county office tomorrow armed with all this info. It's terrible that this is happening to so many people but at least we're helping each other navigate the system. Thanks for sharing your update!

Also make sure to ask them about the "mass EBT theft protection program" they started implementing. They're supposed to be adding extra security features to cards now because of all the skimming happening. My new card has some chip or something the old one didn't have.

I'm so sorry this happened to you! This is incredibly stressful, especially with kids to feed. I went through something similar last year and want to share what worked for me. First, you're doing the right thing by acting quickly - that 10-day reporting window is crucial. When I had my benefits stolen, I found that going to the county office in person was WAY more effective than calling. The phone system is a nightmare, but face-to-face they can't ignore you as easily. Here's what I'd suggest for tomorrow: - Bring all your ID documents, EBT card, and those transaction screenshots - Go right when they open (they're usually less busy early morning) - Tell them immediately it's an emergency food situation with children - Ask specifically for the CF 303 form and emergency replacement benefits The good news is that California law requires them to replace electronically stolen benefits. Don't let them tell you otherwise! I ended up getting my full amount back, it just took persistence. In the meantime, if you have any local food banks or churches nearby, they might be able to help bridge the gap until your benefits get replaced. Some schools also have weekend backpack programs if your kids are school-aged. Hang in there - this will get resolved, but I know how scary it is right now. 💙

btw has anyone noticed the HUGE increase in ebt theft lately??? my cousin and 2 ppl from my building all had their benefits stolen in the last couple months. someone said theres these new skimmer things thieves put on store card readers that can copy ur card when u swipe. now i only use my ebt at the big safeway near me cuz i dont trust the corner stores anymore!!

I'm so sorry this happened to you! This is absolutely heartbreaking and unfortunately way too common. While the federal rules around CalFresh theft replacement are frustrating, definitely follow up on what Kevin mentioned about the new federal demonstration project - it's worth a shot even if it only covers certain types of theft. In the meantime, here are some immediate resources that might help: - Many churches and community centers have emergency food boxes that don't require paperwork - Check if your local library has information about mobile food pantries in your area - Some grocery stores participate in programs that provide emergency food vouchers through nonprofits - If you have young kids, contact Head Start programs - they often know about family emergency resources Also, when you call about the federal program, ask to speak with a supervisor if the first worker doesn't know about it. Sometimes the frontline workers haven't been trained on newer programs yet. Document everything - dates, times, who you spoke with. Hang in there, and I hope you can get some help soon. No family should have to go through this.

Just an FYI - once you report the theft, you might qualify for emergency replacement benefits while your claim is being processed. Ask specifically about "expedited replacement" due to hardship. They can sometimes issue a partial replacement within 3 days if you explain that your family has no food. Also, going forward, here are some security tips: 1. Change your PIN regularly (monthly) 2. Cover the keypad when entering your PIN anywhere 3. Check for loose or suspicious card readers before inserting your card 4. Use the BenefitsCal app to check your balance instead of ATMs 5. Set up alerts so you get a text/email notification whenever there's a transaction Wishing you the best - please update us on what happens!

I'm so sorry this happened to you Isabella! This is absolutely heartbreaking and unfortunately way too common. I went through something similar last year and want to share what worked for me. First, don't give up on calling - the fraud line IS open today but it's swamped. Try calling right when they open at 7am or later in the evening around 9-10pm when call volume is lower. When you do get through, use these exact words: "I need to report ELECTRONIC BENEFIT THEFT and request form EBT-2259 for benefit replacement." Since this is your second time, definitely mention that - they should flag your account for extra monitoring. Also ask them to completely change your card number, not just issue a new card with the same number. For immediate help with groceries, contact 211 (dial 2-1-1) - they can connect you with local food banks and emergency food assistance that can help your family eat while you sort this out. Many churches and community centers also have food pantries that don't require paperwork. You WILL get through this, and with the new California law, you should be able to get your benefits replaced. Stay strong! 💙