This is actually a known issue with the March 2025 emergency supplements. The system was supposed to issue them automatically on the 27th, but there was a processing error affecting accounts in certain case number ranges. When this happens, workers have to manually issue the supplements, which unfortunately takes time.\n\nIf the representative told you it would be processed, it should appear within 3-5 business days. If you don't see it by then, call back and request to speak with a benefits supervisor. Make sure to have your case number ready and specifically mention the \

Thank you so much for this detailed information! I had no idea about the case number ranges being affected - that makes a lot of sense. I'll give it until Tuesday (which would be 5 business days) and then follow your advice if I still don't see anything. Really appreciate knowing about the expedited emergency benefits too, though hopefully it won't come to that.

Update: I finally got through to someone at the EBT Customer Service after using that Claimyr service someone mentioned here (it actually worked!). They confirmed my benefits were used in a city 200 miles away. The representative filed my claim and said I should receive a packet in the mail within 5 business days that I need to complete and return.\n\nI also contacted my county office through BenefitsCal messaging system to document everything there too. They responded surprisingly fast and added notes to my case.\n\nFor anyone else dealing with this - document EVERYTHING. Take screenshots of the fraudulent transactions, note all the times you called, get case numbers and names of representatives you speak with. I'm keeping everything in a folder.\n\nThank you all for your advice and support. I've contacted our local food bank for emergency assistance until this gets resolved.

Great update! One more tip: when you get that packet, return it via certified mail or deliver it in person and get a receipt. Unfortunately, packets get \

I was super paranoid about this too after my neighbor had her benefits stolen last year! The ConnectEBT app is what my case worker specifically told me to use. It's not the prettiest app but it works consistently. Just make ABSOLUTELY SURE you download the right one - there are some fake apps with similar names. The real ConnectEBT app is made by Conduent.

UPDATE: I downloaded the ConnectEBT app and it's working great! Thanks everyone for the help. It was super easy to set up - just needed my card number and PIN. Now I can check my balance before heading to the store. I also saved the phone number as a backup just in case.

When you submit your new application make sure you check the box for expedited services!! If your income is low enough right now they have to process your case within 3 days and issue benefits right away. The magic words are "expedited services" or "emergency CalFresh" when you talk to them. Also bring ID for everyone in household and proof of address to speed things up.

One important thing to know - if you're reapplying, benefits are never backdated to when you were cut off. They'll only start from the date of your new application. That's why it's important to reapply immediately rather than spending too much time trying to fix the old case (which sometimes can't be done if it's been discontinued for a certain period). For the immediate need while waiting for your application to process, most counties have Emergency Food Assistance Programs. Call 211 to find food banks and emergency assistance in your area that can help right away. Lastly, when you reapply, list all household expenses including rent, utilities, childcare costs, and medical expenses. These deductions can significantly increase your benefit amount by reducing your countable income.

I went through the EXACT same confusion! Called the P-EBT number 17 TIMES over three days!!! Finally got someone who told me they're only loading quarterly but couldn't even tell me WHEN the next quarter payment would be! The whole system is designed to make it impossible to get help. And the website is completely useless - just shows balance but nothing about future payments or if you're even still eligible. Why can't they just send a simple letter explaining when payments will come???

Just to clarify one additional point that might be causing confusion - P-EBT 3.0 is separate from CalFresh, even though both use EBT cards. If you receive regular CalFresh benefits, those will continue to be deposited monthly according to your regular schedule. The P-EBT benefits for school children are on the quarterly schedule I mentioned earlier. If you're having trouble reaching someone, you might try contacting your local school district's nutrition services department rather than the state P-EBT hotline. They often have more direct information about which students are enrolled in the program.