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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.
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.
Great! Glad it worked out for you. Just remember to never share your PIN with anyone, even if they claim to be from CalFresh or the county office. They'll never ask for that information.
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.
does anyone no if u can use p-ebt at farmer markets? i heard they double the amount at some markets but not sure if thats only for regular calfresh or p-ebt too????
Yes, you can use P-EBT at farmers markets! The Market Match program that doubles your benefits (up to $10-$20 depending on the market) works with both regular CalFresh EBT and P-EBT cards. I used mine at the downtown farmers market last weekend and got $10 extra for produce. It's a great way to stretch your benefits and get fresh fruits and vegetables. Most markets in California participate in the program now.
UPDATE: Just saw on the California Department of Social Services website that they've extended the P-EBT 4.0 distribution timeline through May 2025 due to "processing delays." So if you haven't received your benefits yet, that might explain why. They're also adding a status checker to the P-EBT website in early March where you can enter your child's information to see if/when benefits will be issued. That should help reduce some of the uncertainty and phone calls.
Thank you for sharing this update! It's frustrating that there are delays, but I'm glad they're at least adding a status checker. That will be so much better than constantly calling or checking the card balance. I'll look for that feature in March.
Samantha Hall
DONT WASTE UR TIME CALLING!!! The county NEVER answers and when they do they just tell you to "wait" anyway. I waited 3 weeks for my extra benefits after winning an appeal. The system is broken and nobody there cares if ur eating ramen for another week!!! 😡
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Ryan Young
•This isn't entirely accurate. While San Joaquin County's CalFresh office does have long wait times, supplemental benefits are typically processed within 10 business days of approval. If you're approaching that timeframe, it's worth calling. The delay you experienced was likely during the CalSAWS transition period when many counties had significant backlogs. The system is much more stable now.
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Chloe Mitchell
hey did ur money ever come thru? been wondering what happened
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Alexis Robinson
•YES! It finally loaded this morning at like 3am. Just randomly checked when I got up for the bathroom and it was there. So I guess they do load at weird times! Thanks everyone for the help.
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