did u try the online chat through benefitscal.com? sometimes u can get help faster that way than on the phone

I wanted to check back - were you able to get this resolved? If you mentioned expedited service and the 30-day processing requirement, you should have received a much quicker appointment. If not, please consider contacting your local legal aid office as well, as this is a clear violation of CalFresh regulations.

I'm sorry you're dealing with this frustrating situation. To directly answer your question: yes, you should receive your stolen benefits back after the review period, assuming your claim is approved. The 10 business days is the maximum timeframe for processing theft claims according to state regulations, and many counties try to process them faster. A few important points: 1. California has specific EBT theft protection policies. The benefits that were stolen should be replaced as long as you reported it promptly (which you did) and complete the paperwork correctly this time. 2. For your new submission, make sure you include: - Exact date and time you discovered the theft - Specific amount stolen (with dates of transactions if possible) - Any police report information if you filed one 3. The 10 business days means 10 county working days, not including weekends or holidays. 4. If you're experiencing a food emergency while waiting, ask about emergency food resources. Many counties can refer you to food banks or emergency assistance. Keep a copy of all paperwork you submit this time, and get a receipt or confirmation number when you submit it.

UPDATE: Went to the county office in person today with all my documentation. The worker there was actually really helpful and said my case was pretty straightforward. She expedited my claim and said I should see my benefits replaced within 3-5 business days instead of 10! She said going in person definitely helped speed things up. Thanks everyone for the advice!

why don't u just ask ur landlord if u can pay tomorrow????? mine is always cool with a day late if I tell them

UPDATE: I was able to get my cash! I went to the FoodMaxx customer service desk like several of you suggested, and they were able to process my EBT cash withdrawal. Had to do it in two transactions because of the limit, but at least I got what I needed for rent. They confirmed there's an issue with bank ATMs today. Thanks everyone for your help! I'm definitely setting up direct deposit to my bank account for next month to avoid this hassle.

Just wanted to add - if your benefits were approved but just not issued yet, once they do process it, you'll get the full amount you're entitled to for January. CalFresh benefits are always retroactive to the date of eligibility. So even with the delay, you shouldn't lose any benefit amount.

Update - just checked my EBT and my benefits loaded today!! Check yours!

have u checked wit local churches?? my cousin got rent help from catholic charities when she was facing eviction. they paid 2 months rent for her when county was being slow. also did u apply for calworks online through BenefitsCal or in person?? going in person can make things go faster sometime.

I see from your comments that you're getting some good advice and making calls tomorrow. One more suggestion - when you go to your CalWORKs appointment, bring ALL your documentation: ID for everyone, birth certificates, social security cards, lease agreement, eviction notice or communications from landlord, utility bills, bank statements, and proof of any income or resources. Being fully prepared can sometimes get you immediate emergency assistance versus having to come back multiple times. Also ask specifically about "Immediate Need" payments through CalWORKs, which can provide up to $200 while your regular application is processing. And regarding the lock changing - this actually gives you significant legal leverage. In many California counties, a landlord who performs an illegal self-help eviction (like changing locks) can be liable for damages up to $100 per day plus actual damages. Document everything and mention this when you speak to legal aid.