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Just went through this headache last week! First, P-EBT and regular EBT are totally different systems even though the cards look similar. Update your address with: 1. Your child's school (most important) 2. P-EBT hotline (877-328-9677) When calling, I selected option 4 then option 2. Waited about 35 minutes. Definitely use the P-EBT card number when they ask, not your regular EBT. Also discovered that if you also have regular CalFresh, you need to update that address separately through your county office or BenefitsCal. The systems don't talk to each other which is so frustrating!
wat if u lost the pebt card? my kids got them last year but i think i threw them out cuz i didnt know wat they were lol
Just a tip - when you receive the replacement P-EBT card, immediately create an online account at connectebt.com to monitor activity. You can set up text alerts for transactions, check balances, and review transaction history. This way, if your card ever gets lost again, you'll know immediately if someone is using it. Also, don't forget to destroy the old card if you find it later, as it will no longer work and could create confusion.
UPDATE: I called the P-EBT number (877-328-9677) and after about 45 minutes on hold, finally spoke to someone. They canceled the old card and are sending a replacement. They confirmed no one had used any benefits since I last used it three days ago. The new card should arrive in 7-10 business days. Thanks everyone for your help!
One more important tip - whether you use the app or not, I highly recommend checking your EBT account regularly for suspicious transactions. If your benefits are stolen, you need to report it within 10 days to have the best chance of getting reimbursed. California now has a benefit theft reimbursement program, but there are strict timelines for reporting.
BE CAREFUL using ATMs!! Skimming is everywhere now. I recommend checking your EBT balance EVERY DAY through the app or website. That way you catch fraud immediately. As for your question, did you get a new card number after the skimming? If not, YOU NEED TO! Otherwise they can just steal your replacement benefits too.
can i ask how long it took u to get ur money back after filing the claim??? im on day 9 of waiting and customer service keeps saying "10-15 business days" but i cant pay my rent without that money!!
Fatima Al-Suwaidi
I wanted to follow up about the immediate need payment I mentioned. When you call, specifically say: "I'm requesting an immediate need payment due to an emergency food situation. I'm 39 weeks pregnant with less than 3 days worth of food in my home." They should take your information and escalate it. If they try to brush you off, mention California MPP Section 63-804 which covers immediate need procedures. Also, write down the name of everyone you speak with, along with date and time. This creates accountability.
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Liam Fitzgerald
•This is extremely helpful! Just wrote down that section number and will definitely use this exact wording. I've started keeping a log of all my calls with names and times like you suggested. I'm feeling more prepared to advocate for myself now.
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Amara Nnamani
Update from my earlier comment - I just realized you may also qualify for the CalFresh Pregnancy Special Situation. In California, pregnant women who meet income guidelines can receive benefits as a household of 2 even before the baby is born. Make sure your worker knows you're pregnant (medical verification may be required). This should increase your benefit amount once approved.
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Liam Fitzgerald
•Thank you! The worker did ask about my pregnancy during the interview, and I provided my medical verification from my OB. She did mention something about calculating benefits differently because I'm pregnant, but honestly I was so stressed during the interview I don't remember all the details. Just need to get APPROVED first before worrying about the amount!
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